Betting technology firm BoscaSports has expanded its capabilities in the UK via the acquisition route, securing terms to take over video streaming firm 2DB.
The Irish company is targeting the retail betting sector in particular, stating that the deal will further establish it as a tech provider to licensed betting offices (LBOs).
Financial terms of the acquisition, including the purchase price, have not been confirmed. However, Allied Irish Bank (AIB) is supporting the move via a loan facility.
BoscaSports states that the deal will double its employee headcount while strengthening its retail and online abilities. The Irish Times, meanwhile, reported that the combined entity should generate €4m (£3.4m) in revenue.
“This acquisition is transformational for BoscaSports,” said Eugenee Mitchell, the firm’s Chief Executive Officer.
“Combining our abilities with 2DB’s integrated video streaming and data solutions significantly enhances our technology stack, our distribution reach, and the value we can deliver to racecourse, operators, and bettors worldwide.
“We are proud to be an Irish tech success story and grateful for the support of AIB and RMG as we enter our next phase of growth.”
Two sectors at a crossroads
BoscaSports already has an extensive presence in the UK retail betting sector. Notable partners of the firm include Flutter Entertainment’s Paddy Power, the UK Tote Group, William Hill and Britbet.
The firm is also a partner of many racecourses, with its retail displays utilised at 86 different tracks across the UK and Ireland. Notable UK partner tracks include the iconic Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
“We’re delighted to announce that 2DB has been acquired by BoyleSports,” said 2DB Managing Director, Steve Boffo. “This is the perfect cultural and strategic match, and we’re ready to hit the ground running for our team and our customers.”
However, both British retail betting and horse racing stand at a unique and possibly precarious position in 2026.
For the former, there have been gradual declines in UK retail betting participation and gross gaming yield over successive years as more people move to online alternatives.
According to UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) figures, 2025 showed a 2% decline in retail GGY, for example. There are also constant rumours of shop closures, with one of BoscaSports’ clients, Paddy Power, confirming the closure of 257 UK and Irish shops last year.
Racing, meanwhile, has been struggling with fan engagement and attendance for some time, and the sport’s governing body. With the sport’s finances struggling, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), continues to express disappointment with the government’s decision to keep the Horseracing Betting Levy at 10%.
However, retail betting and horse racing did get a bit of a break in the government’s budget last year. Horse racing was entirely excluded from the tax hikes announced by Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, while retail betting will be exempt from the increase in General Betting Duty from 15% to 25% next year.
There will undoubtedly be knock-on effects on the doubling of online gaming duty to 40%, which has already been seen in the cancellation of betting sponsorships of racing, rumours of further shop closures, and even of sales – such as of William Hill owner evoke.
However, the fact that AIB has backed BoscaSports’ takeover of a UK betting tech brand may suggest some analysts see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel for both the British and Irish retail betting space and horse racing sectors.
“At AIB, we are proud to support Ireland’s indigenous technology companies as they scale internationally,” said Pat Horgan, AIB’s Head of Business Banking – Capital Markets.
“Their innovation drives economic growth, creates high value employment, and strengthens Ireland’s position as a leading global technology hub.
“Bosca Technologies exemplifies this ambition, demonstrating how cutting edge innovation, strong strategic partnerships, and global focus can deliver success on the world stage.”