Propelled forward by the pandemic and mandated lockdown restrictions, the South African gaming and gambling industries are growing from strength to strength. South Africa’s booming gambling market ranks above its African peers, with financial experts predicting a gross revenue of over $2.3 billion by the end of 2022 and a further annual growth of around 6%, while the number of active gamers in the country has been reported as 11 million. Drivers of investment into the region are seen as the country’s young population as well, as the increasing adoption of smartphones and rising digital connectivity amid decreasing costs.
Riding the wave of this surging popularity is serial entrepreneur JP van der Spuy, who has announced the September 2022 launch of his latest venture, Play.co.za. “We are excited to launch Play.co.za, a premium online sports betting and gaming platform for the South African market, which offers users the latest in eSports and other interactive gaming experiences. As a community-driven a business with a tongue-in-cheek stance, we are looking to shake up South Africa’s burgeoning online gaming industry,” says van der Spuy.
By no means a newcomer to the tech industry, van der Spuy is well-known as one of the co-founders of leading online payment platform Callpay, which was sold internationally in 2021 for $6.8 million. He says that his new gaming business draws on his deep understanding of digital platforms, as well as his passion for sport, using creativity and a good sense of humour to bring it all together into a seamless online gaming experience.
In South Africa, research indicates that one in 10 citizens engage in gambling for entertainment. Yet, as the cost of internet connectivity comes down and the number of smartphone users goes up – statistics suggest that between 20 and 22 million (or one third of the population) use a smartphone – the popularity of online casinos and gaming is also on the rise.
Even before its official launch, Play.co.za has attracted big sport and lifestyle brand partners, including ESPN Africa, Tropika Island of Treasure, Winelands 10s, Cape Town 10s and the World Swimsuit Model Search.
“I have long recognised the growth potential of a well-engineered online marketplace, and I am fortunate to have developed partnerships with several leading South African brands, which will enable strategic market placement of the business to drive future growth and perhaps give some of the bigger corporate players a run for their money,” he adds.
Despite his financial success to date, van der Spuy insists he does not do it only for the money. “Thanks to my father, entrepreneurship has always run through my veins. I have always jumped headfirst into a challenge and I enjoy putting my knowledge and skills to the test to develop innovative solutions that service a public need. Play.co.za is a stellar example of this, one that has also allowed me to show off my playful side.”
Only for persons 18 years and older. Winners know when to stop. South African Responsible Gambling Foundation toll free counselling line 0800 006 008 or WHATSAPP HELP to 076 675 0710.
CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za.
Press Release Views since 1 July 2022: 48
