Another major acquisition deal in the online gambling industry was announced this week. Boyd Gaming, the US-facing igaming software supplier, confirmed that it plans to acquire Pala Interactive for $170 million in a deal struck between the two companies. The all-cash deal includes the acquisition of all the group’s subsidiaries and is expected to close by the first quarter of next year.

Pala Interactive is the majority owned brand of the Pala Band of Mission Indians.  It is active in the North American market in eight US states, as well as Canada.

Most importantly, Pala Interactive recently acquired a Gaming Related Supplier Manufacturer License from Ontario’s gambling authority, which allows it to enter the fledgling igaming market in the Canadian province.

As per the president and chief executive of Boyd Gaming, Keith Smith:

“The acquisition of Pala Interactive marks the next phase in the ongoing execution of our igaming strategy, providing us full control over the technology, development and customer experience.”

“By integrating online casinos with our existing land-based operations, we will be able to further leverage and monetise our expansive customer database and the amenities of our nationwide portfolio of properties, driving growth in both our land-based and igaming operations.”

Smith said that it made sense for Boyd to pursue a direct approach with its igaming operations, given the company’s nationwide geographic distribution, significant database and established loyalty program.