#United Kingdom #Manchester #Scientific Games #Allwyn #SCiQ

Introduction to SCiQ Technology

In a landmark event for the European lottery market, Scientific Games has launched its innovative SCiQ retail technology. This launch marks the first introduction of SCiQ in Europe, setting a new standard for lottery retail operations. Partnering with Allwyn, the operator of The National Lottery, the technology made its debut at an Asda store located east of Manchester, UK. Asda, known for being the second-largest supermarket chain in the UK, is at the forefront of adopting this revolutionary new system.

Enhancing Lottery Experience

SCiQ technology has already proven its effectiveness in enhancing lottery sales and operations in over a dozen markets across the United States, and its entry into Europe is anticipated to bring similar benefits. The system aims to modernize the management and sale of scratch cards, thereby simplifying the purchasing experience for lottery players. With SCiQ, sales associates at Asda will enjoy features like automated inventory management, comprehensive store reporting, and market basket performance analytics, all designed to streamline operations and improve overall efficiency.

Key Features of SCiQ

One of the standout features of SCiQ is its ability to provide real-time analytics specific to individual stores. Retailers can access instant reports regarding sales metrics, which helps them to make informed decisions swiftly. The technology also emphasizes enhanced product security, utilizing features that protect against theft and fraud. The modern retail environment for lottery products has been transformed with the addition of digital screens and automatic card dispensers, creating a user-friendly experience for shoppers.

Christopher Allen, the VP of Lottery Marketing Strategy at Scientific Games, highlighted the commitment of their global technology teams to innovate within the lottery sector over the past 50 years. He expressed excitement about launching this proven retail ecosystem in conjunction with Allwyn, signifying the future trajectory of lottery sales in Europe.

Collaboration with Allwyn and Asda

To meet operational necessities, SCiQ has been customized in line with Allwyn's unique 10-scratchcard limit policy. This feature automatically restricts Asda staff from processing transactions that include more than 10 National Lottery scratch cards at once, a move aimed at fostering responsible gambling practices.


The integration of SCiQ into Asda’s customer service area is the initial phase of a test that will continue for several months. This trial period is crucial as it will gather data and insights that might lead to a wider rollout in the future, depending on the outcomes and user feedback.

Future Implications and Industry Impact

As Allwyn transitions The National Lottery towards a forward-thinking model, the benefits of implementing SCiQ technology are expected to resonate well beyond just the Asda store. The overarching goal is to elevate the player and retailer experience to unprecedented levels. Jenny Blogg, Operations Director at Allwyn, mentioned that this innovation not only meets customer expectations but also transforms the entire purchasing process for scratch cards.

Scientific Games is recognized globally as the largest lottery games company and an established technology partner in the lottery domain. With its reach extending to over 150 lotteries across 50 different countries, the introduction of SCiQ represents a significant advancement in the integration of technology and retail practices in the realm of lotteries.

Conclusion

The SCiQ system sets a new benchmark for lottery management technology and stands as a testament to Scientific Games' ongoing evolution within the industry. As the deployment in the UK unfolds over the coming months, the hopeful anticipation is that it will redefine the landscape of scratchcard sales and pave the way for similar transformations throughout Europe.

For more information about Scientific Games and its innovative technologies, you can visit their official website at scientificgames.com.