EasyJet Owner Expands into Sports Betting with Platform easyBet

EasyGroup, the iconic brand behind easyJet, has ventured into the sports betting industry with the launch of easyBet.net. This move represents a strategic expansion for EasyGroup, establishing a trusted brand presence in an increasingly competitive market. In collaboration with Matchbook, easyBet will operate as a peer-to-peer betting exchange, allowing users to bet directly against each other instead of a traditional bookmaker. This new platform not only brings a trusted name into the betting world but also protects the “easy” brand from unauthorized use in the industry.

EasyJet Owner Launches easyBet, a Peer-to-Peer Sports Betting Platform

EasyGroup, known for its budget airline easyJet, has launched easyBet.net to enter the sports betting market. This innovative platform operates as a peer-to-peer betting exchange, in collaboration with Matchbook, allowing bettors to place wagers directly against one another. Unlike traditional sportsbooks, peer-to-peer exchanges offer a more dynamic betting experience, often with improved odds and fewer restrictions.

Key Points:

• EasyGroup launches easyBet.net, a peer-to-peer betting exchange.
• Partnership with Matchbook aims to offer industry-leading odds and a secure platform.
• easyBet expands the trusted “easy” brand while addressing unauthorized brand use in betting.

According to Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the founder of EasyGroup, this entry into the sports betting sector aligns with EasyGroup’s strategy of leveraging the “easy” brand across various consumer markets. “We are delighted to welcome easyBet.net to the ‘easy’ family of brands,” he commented, noting that this launch follows similar moves by major UK brands like Virgin, Sky, and The Sun.

EasyGroup has experienced challenges with unauthorized use of the “easy” name in betting and has previously pursued legal action to protect its brand identity. By launching easyBet, the company offers bettors a legitimate “easy” experience while securing the integrity of its brand in the gambling market.

Matchbook CEO Malcolm Graham expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Matchbook is delighted to be partnering with the EasyGroup to offer its betting exchange product. The ‘easy’ brand is renowned for consistently supplying quality and value to its customers.” He added that easyBet will offer “industry-leading odds across a wide range of sports and geographic markets,” ensuring an engaging and user-friendly experience.

The easyBet website, which is already live but not yet fully operational, will initially offer sports betting and political wagers only, with no plans to incorporate casino games. This focus on sports and politics reflects EasyGroup’s targeted approach to cater to a specific segment of the betting market, emphasizing reliability and compliance.

In terms of compliance, Matchbook has invested heavily in regulation and responsible gaming practices. Following a six-month suspension in 2020 by the UK Gambling Commission due to significant failings in anti-money laundering (AML) and social responsibility standards, Matchbook has made considerable improvements. This includes appointing a new management team and implementing what EasyGroup describes as “best-in-class” compliance systems to ensure a secure betting environment.

With the launch of easyBet.net, EasyGroup extends its brand into the growing sports betting market, offering a trusted and innovative peer-to-peer betting platform in collaboration with Matchbook. This strategic move not only expands EasyGroup’s footprint but also addresses the need for brand integrity within the betting sector. As easyBet prepares for full operational launch, it positions itself as a strong competitor, promising a reliable, value-driven experience for sports bettors across the UK and beyond.