Pollard Banknote has been confirmed as the new primary supplier of Scratchers instant games and related services to the California Lottery, taking on responsibility for around 70% of the portfolio from December 2025.
The six-year agreement – which can be extended for another six – was signed off by the Lottery Commission on 25 September. It represents a step up in Pollard Banknote’s 25-year relationship with the Lottery, having previously served as a secondary supplier.
From secondary partner to lead supplier
The California Lottery, established in 1985, has contributed more than $46bn (£36.4bn) to schools, colleges, and universities across the state. The organisation detailed that almost 95 cents of every dollar spent on Lottery products is returned to the community through prizes, retailer commissions and education funding.
Pollard Banknote has played a part in this over the last two decades, designing a number of Scratchers titles. Its Mystery Crossword game, launched in 2014, has generated more than $6bn in sales and became the Lottery’s top-selling product in 2024.
Wider remit in California
The deal will also see Pollard Banknote provide additional services including retail initiatives, portfolio optimisation, print innovations and licensed promotions, designed to support growth in the instant games segment.
Doug Pollard, Co-CEO, said: “We are extremely excited to expand our relationship with one of the largest and most successful lotteries in the world.
“This expansion into the role of primary contractor marks an exciting new chapter in a decades-long partnership that has delivered a range of innovative and groundbreaking instant ticket experiences to raise funds for public education.
“As the Lottery celebrates its milestone 40th anniversary, we are thrilled to deepen our collaboration and look forward to many more years of shared success providing fun and engaging entertainment to Californians.”
Financial backdrop
The contract confirmation follows a positive trading update released in August. Pollard Banknote reported Q2 2025 revenue of $142.7m, up 3.6% year-on-year, supported by the April acquisition of Pacific Gaming.
Including its share of NeoPollard Interactive (NPi), combined sales rose 5.3% to $174.8m. Adjusted EBITDA stood at $29.2m, with the company noting timing shifts in instant ticket orders. Income from operations fell 12.4% to $17.4m.
The iLottery segment was a bright spot, contributing $19.5m for the quarter – a 20% increase on 2024.