Allwyn has warned shop owners that their National Lottery terminals will stop working for approximately 36 hours during a new technical switchover.
Allwyn UK CEO, Andria Vidler, shared that the down time will happen during a weekend this upcoming summer, enabling the new systems to go live, according to Better Retailing.
This is the very first upgrade of the National Lottery’s technology and operations since the start of the third National Lottery Licence back in 2009.
Meanwhile, the move – The move forms part of Allwyn’s overhaul of its 43,000-strong National Lottery retail estate, with the goal of generating greater footfall, in-store play and repeat custom. The firm also hopes that the decision will help improve the experience for both retailers and customers.
“Retail is – and will remain – at the heart of The National Lottery, and we are committed to doing everything we can to support you,” Vidler added.
A new bold vision
It was announced earlier this year that Allwyn had a new outlook for the National Lottery, with the aforementioned overhaul currently underway at a cost of around £350m.
It was then on 1 February that Allwyn assumed stewardship of the National Lottery, taking over the UK government’s multi-billion-pound contract supporting charities, heritage projects, and cultural initiatives across the UK. This was the first time in its 30-year history that the lottery had changed operating companies.
This ongoing overhaul will now see engineers visit each retailer to upgrade around 7,000 stores from Compact Lottery Terminals to what Allwyn has described as ‘state-of-the-art’ replacements, whilst all other partnered stores will also receive new terminals.
The operator also spoke of a new internet network for devices in stores as well as modern point of sale stands.
Back in January just days before the takeover, Andria Vidler, CEO of Allwyn UK, highlighted the importance of a fresh beginning for the National Lottery.
She said: “Starting Thursday, we begin the important process of enhancing The National Lottery for the benefit of future generations. It will be a journey that takes time but will be marked by many incredible milestones along the way, offering us more opportunities to reflect on all the good that comes from it.”
Allwyn disclosed that more information regarding the switchover will be made available with stores nearer to the time.