Super Group Review - ESG and Sustainability Performance (2024)
Last updated:25th April 2024
(4 / 5)
TL;DR
Super Group receives a final score of 3, which rounds up to 4 (Acceptable – we think you deserve better!). As a prominent player in the iGaming industry, they demonstrate a strong commitment to global expansion and diverse offerings. Despite encountering regulatory challenges, the company remains resilient and adaptable, implementing measures to enhance social responsibility and address past shortcomings. Super Group’s focus on sustainable business practices and contributions to various social initiatives reflect its dedication to broader societal well-being.
Super Group scores a 3 for transparency, providing insights through financial reporting, but lacking comprehensive ESG disclosures.
Provides insights through financial reporting..
Enhance transparency further through comprehensive ESG disclosures.
ESG Strategy
The company earns a score of 2 for its vague ESG strategy, with opportunities for improvement in defining clear targets and initiatives aligned with global sustainability goals.
Define clear targets and initiatives aligned with global sustainability goals.
Sanctions
Super Group’s score is 3, indicating no sanctions in the last year, but potential challenges in responsible gambling practices.
No sanctions in the last year.
3rd Party Rating
With a score of 3, Super Group maintains a positive public perception, though further enhancements could be pursued to bolster its industry standing.
Maintains a positive public perception.
Continuously enhancing public ratings and receiving more awards could further improve this score.
Company Overview
Name
Betway—-SGHC Limited
Company Type
Public Limited Company, NYSE: SGHC
Location(s)
Guernsey
Presence
Online sports betting, online casino, and multi-brand online casino offerings
Products
Sports betting, multi-brand casino
Brands
Betway (Sports, Casino, Live Casino, e-Sports, Vegas), Jackpot City, Hippodrome Casino, Dream Bingo, Spin Casino, Brands operated by Jumpman Gaming
Licences
UK, US, Malta, Italy, Denmark, Spain, Belgium, Germany, Sweden, Mexico, South Africa, Portugal, Ireland, Poland, France, Argentina
Key markets
UK, Africa and Middle-East, North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS)
About the Company
Super Group stands as a significant player in the sports betting and online casino industries, serving as the holding company for Betway and Spin. Operating on a global scale, these brands cater to customers across Europe, Africa, North America, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. Super Group‘s reach extends far and wide, providing top-notch betting and gaming experiences to a diverse and expansive audience. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Super Group continues to make its mark as a leading provider in the online gambling sector, offering a wide array of betting options and casino games tailored to meet the preferences of players worldwide.
The company’s flagship brand, Betway, is renowned for its premier online sportsbook, offering an extensive range of sports betting options alongside captivating casino entertainment. Betway’s global presence is fortified by licenses held across various continents, solidifying its position as a trusted and respected name in the industry. Complementing Betway, Spin stands as a premium, multi-brand online casino platform with a focus on high-growth markets. Leveraging proprietary data and advanced analytics, Spin delivers personalized and cutting-edge gaming experiences, ensuring players enjoy a secure and immersive environment. With a dedicated workforce spanning 17 countries, Super Group’s leadership team of industry veterans oversees operations with a commitment to excellence, integrity, and responsible gambling.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Super Group based on the Full Year 2023 Financial Results
Financial Performance Summary
Revenue Growth
Super Group achieved a record revenue of €1.4 billion for the full year 2023, surpassing guidance, which includes the highest-ever total revenue for a fourth quarter of €359.9 million.
Profitability
The company reported a profit before tax of €16.8 million for the full year 2023, but incurred a loss before tax of €44.9 million for the fourth quarter. These results were affected by certain non-cash charges arising from changes in fair value of option liability and an impairment of goodwill. Operational EBITDA for the full year 2023 amounted to €197.3 million, exceeding guidance, and was €36.2 million for the fourth quarter.
Investment in Sustainability
Not available
Number of Employees
600 (BetWay)
Key Performance Indicator
2022 (€ million)
2023 (1Q – 4Q) (€ million)
Total Revenue
€1,292
€1,400
Total Operation Costs
€1,213
Not specified
Total Taxes (income tax)
€34
Not specified
Total Profit
€182
€16.8 (FY), €(44.9) (4Q)
Total Number of Employees
600(BetWay)
EBITDA (Operational)
N/A
€197.3 (FY), €36.2 (4Q)
This analysis showcases the company’s robust financial performance, strategic objectives, and continued growth momentum in the dynamic online sports betting and i-gaming industry.
ESG Overview
In this section, we explore the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices of Super Group. Understanding a company’s ESG commitments is crucial for investors, stakeholders, and the general public to assess its impact on the environment, society, and governance structures. We delve into Super Group’s initiatives, strategies, and performance in these key areas, shedding light on its sustainability efforts and social responsibility. For a comprehensive guide on ESG in the iGaming industry, you can visit Better World Casinos – Understanding ESG and iGaming.
ESG Strategy
Super Group is deeply committed to its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, recognizing the critical importance of sustainability in today’s world. The company is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint through innovative technologies and practices, striving to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions as it expands globally. Social initiatives focus on supporting the communities where Super Group operates, fostering education, health, and social welfare programs. The company believes in making a positive impact on society, enhancing lives, and contributing to the betterment of the world.
In governance and ethics, Super Group upholds the highest standards to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the organization. The governance framework is designed to safeguard stakeholder interests and maintain trust in the brand. With a core strategy centered on global expansion, Super Group is present in over 20 jurisdictions across Europe, the Americas, and Africa. This expansion not only drives business growth but also allows the company to reach diverse audiences with its entertainment offerings. Additionally, the dedicated Risk Committee, alongside other governance bodies, plays a vital role in identifying and managing risks, enhancing the ability to make informed decisions for sustainable, long-term success.
Environmental Impact
In this section, we delve into the company’s efforts towards environmental sustainability and its initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. For a detailed overview of Super Group’s environmental strategies, you can also visitESG Environment page.
Environmental Performance
Emissions:
Super Group recognizes the importance of addressing its environmental impact, particularly in reducing emissions. While specific emission reduction targets are not publicly disclosed, the company is committed to minimizing its carbon footprint as it expands globally.
Social Performance
In this section, we explore the company’s initiatives related to social responsibility, employee engagement, and community involvement. For a comprehensive view of Super Group’s social endeavors, you can also visitESG Social page.
Internal
Employee feedback: Employee feedback on Glassdoor offers insights into Super Group’s(Betway) internal social performance. With a Glassdoor rating of 3.2, there are mixed sentiments among employees, with 45% indicating they would recommend Super Group to a friend. CEO Anthony Werkman has a CEO approval rating of 46%, showcasing varying opinions on leadership within the organization. Employees value aspects such as healthcare benefits and pension programs, highlighting the company’s commitment to employee well-being.
Gender Diversity: Betway boasts a diverse workforce with representation from 85 nationalities, maintaining a 70:30 male to female ratio. A gender pay gap report for subsidiary Win Technologies (UK) Ltd is available, demonstrating transparency in its employment practices.
External
Responsible Gambling Measures: Super Group is affiliated with organizations like Gamstop and IBIA, actively contributing to gambling awareness initiatives. These affiliations underline the company’s commitment to responsible gambling practices.
Community Engagement: The WayForward program, initiated by Super Group, has donated over $2 million to various charity programs as of 2021. This program supports disadvantaged communities through both financial contributions and volunteer activities.
Responsible Marketing: Super Group ensures responsible marketing practices, collaborating with organizations such as Code Your Future and Guernsey Sports Association for the Disabled. These partnerships focus on promoting responsible gaming and supporting charitable causes.
Modern Slavery
Commitment Against Modern Slavery: Super Group is committed to combatting modern slavery, with established policies in place. While specific details of these policies are not publicly disclosed, the company maintains a stance against modern slavery within its operations and supply chain.
Governance and Compliance
For any organization, governance forms the backbone of its operations, shaping its transparency, integrity, and regulatory compliance. It encompasses the structures and processes through which companies are directed and controlled. To delve deeper into the governance practices within the iGaming industry, visit Better World Casinos – ESG and Governance.
Governmental Performance
Code of Conduct
Super Group maintains a comprehensive Code of Conduct outlining ethical standards and behavior expected from employees. This code serves as a guide for all staff members to ensure compliance and integrity in their roles.
Frameworks & Policies
The company has established robust frameworks and policies to govern its operations. These frameworks cover various aspects such as risk management, compliance, and corporate governance, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Anti-Corruption Measures
As part of its commitment to ethical business practices, Super Group has implemented anti-corruption measures. These measures aim to prevent bribery and corruption in all aspects of its operations and relationships with partners.
Sustainability Charter
While Super Group emphasizes its commitment to sustainability, specific details of a sustainability charter are not publicly disclosed. The company may be in the process of developing or formalizing its sustainability goals and initiatives.
Tax Policies
Super Group adheres to tax regulations in the jurisdictions where it operates, contributing to the local economies. However, detailed information on its tax policies and practices is not publicly available.
CEO Compensation
Details regarding CEO compensation are not disclosed in the provided information. CEO compensation typically includes a mix of salary, bonuses, and other incentives tied to the company’s performance.
Corporate Structure
The governance framework of Super Group includes a Board of Directors overseeing strategic decisions and corporate governance. Three key committees support the board: Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, Audit Committee, and Compensation Committee.
Financials
Global Exit Strategy: Betway made the strategic decision to exit the Indian market due to increased service taxes, impacting its operations in the region. The full impact of this exit is yet to be realized and may affect the company’s financial performance in the short term. The decision aligns with Super Group’s focus on sustainable growth and profitability in viable markets.
Additionally, in 2022, Betway received a fine of £400,000 due to the visibility of its logo on a children’s website. This raised concerns about the company’s advertising practices and its responsibility in ensuring that its branding is not accessible to underage individuals. These fines underscore the importance of stringent regulatory compliance and responsible marketing practices within the online betting and gaming industry.
Super Group prioritizes responsible gambling measures, promoting the health and well-being of its customers. Health care benefits provided to employees contribute to the goal of ensuring good health and well-being within the workforce.
With a diverse workforce representing 85 nationalities, Super Group fosters a multicultural environment that supports the goal of quality education. The company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion enhances learning opportunities and cross-cultural understanding among employees.
Super Group’s workforce ratio of 70:30 male to female actively promotes gender equality within the organization. Initiatives aimed at gender diversity and inclusion contribute to the advancement of Goal 5.
Super Group’s provision of health care benefits and pension programs enhances the quality of work life for employees, aligning with Goal 8. These initiatives support decent work and economic growth by ensuring employee well-being and financial security.
Through its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Super Group works towards reducing inequality within its workforce. Providing equal opportunities for employees of diverse backgrounds helps in achieving Goal 10.
While not explicitly mentioned, Super Group’s responsible gambling practices contribute to responsible consumption and production. By promoting responsible gaming, the company encourages sustainable consumption patterns among its customers.
Super Group’s commitment to addressing climate change risks indicates alignment with Goal 13. While specific details are not provided, efforts to mitigate environmental impacts contribute to climate action.
Super Group’s collaborations with charitable organizations and partnerships with industry groups demonstrate its commitment to Goal 17. By working together with stakeholders, Super Group aims to achieve sustainable development goals and create a positive impact in its communities.
SBC Awards 2022: Betway was honored with the title of Esports Operator of the Year, highlighting its dedication and success in the esports betting market.
EGR Awards 2022: Once again, Betway was recognized as the Esports Operator of the Year at the EGR Awards, solidifying its position as a leader in the esports betting industry.
Global Regulatory Awards 2022: Betway was shortlisted for the Outstanding Contribution to Sports Betting Integrity, showcasing its commitment to maintaining integrity and fairness in sports betting operations.
Conclusion
Overall Summary and Verdict
Super Group, a prominent player in the iGaming industry, demonstrates a strong commitment to global expansion and diverse offerings. Despite encountering regulatory challenges, the company remains resilient and adaptable, implementing measures to enhance social responsibility and address past shortcomings. Super Group’s focus on sustainable business practices and contributions to various social initiatives reflect its dedication to broader societal well-being.
Transparency: Super Group scores a 3 for transparency, providing insights through financial reporting, but lacking comprehensive ESG disclosures.
ESG Strategy: The company earns a score of 2 for its vague ESG strategy, with opportunities for improvement in defining clear targets and initiatives aligned with global sustainability goals.
Sanctions and Concerns: Super Group’s score is 3, indicating no sanctions in the last year, but potential challenges in responsible gambling practices.
3rd Party Review: With a score of 3, Super Group maintains a positive public perception, though further enhancements could be pursued to bolster its industry standing.
Verdict & BWC Sustainability Scorecard
Final Score: 3 / 5 (Acceptable – we think you deserve better!)
Strengths:
Transparency: Provides insights through financial reporting.
Sanctions: No sanctions in the last year.
Public Perception: Maintains a positive public perception.
Areas for Improvement:
ESG Strategy: Define clear targets and initiatives aligned with global sustainability goals.
Transparency Enhancement: Enhance transparency further through comprehensive ESG disclosures.
Responsible Gambling Practices: Continued focus on responsible gambling practices to avoid potential challenges and regulatory fines.