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German gaming giant Merkur Group has confirmed the acquisition of White Hat Studios, a leading U.S. slots provider, marking a strategic step in expanding its operations across regulated American markets. Since its establishment in 2021, White Hat Studios has rapidly built a strong presence, being the first provider to launch online slots in all seven U.S. states where iGaming is regulated. Its portfolio features the popular ‘House of Brands’ collection, the award-winning 7s Fire Blitz series, and the Jackpot Royale progressive network.
Andy Whitworth, President of White Hat Studios, described the move as pivotal for the company: “Joining Merkur Group is an exciting moment for everyone associated with White Hat Studios and, fundamentally, it is the best possible move to realise our ambitions for future growth and product innovation. Working alongside the hugely experienced Merkur team will open new possibilities for us across iGaming and enhance our ability to develop a world-class omni-channel proposition that will benefit both operators and players.”
Complementing U.S. Expansion Strategy
The acquisition complements Merkur’s earlier purchase of Nevada-based Gaming Arts, a licensed game and machine supplier, reinforcing its capacity to provide both online-first and omni-channel solutions. Merkur executives highlighted that the deal will accelerate the group’s expansion in the U.S., leveraging White Hat Studios’ expertise and resources to further enhance product development and delivery.
According to Merkur Group, Lars Felderhoff, Chairman of Merkur Management Board, commented: “White Hat Studios has delivered impressive growth since its launch. We look forward to working with the team to continue the U.S. success story and, in turn, Merkur’s expansion in regulated iGaming.” Michael Gauselmann, Chairman of the Merkur Supervisory Board, added: “Having made early inroads into the online space in Europe via our Blueprint acquisition in 2012, I am delighted by this latest development and am confident that White Hat Studios will be a great addition to our group.”
White Hat Studios operates across all seven U.S. regulated iGaming states, offering over 150 titles that include branded content such as The Goonies, Peaky Blinders, Ted, Flintstones, and Deal or No Deal. The company launches at least six new games per month while maintaining a dynamic progressive jackpot network, providing a robust and diverse portfolio for operators.
The acquisition excludes White Hat’s B2B platform and white-label operations, which remain under their current ownership. Regulatory approvals are pending for the studios’ transition to Merkur Group, a standard procedure for U.S. gaming market consolidations.
Whitworth emphasized the strategic value of the partnership: “Working alongside Merkur’s experienced team will enhance our ability to deliver innovative slot offerings and develop a world-class omni-channel proposition that benefits both operators and players.”
Ongoing Strategic Growth
Merkur Group continues to pursue aggressive expansion in both European and U.S. markets. The company recently reopened Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds under its brand following an acquisition and temporary closure. This, together with the White Hat Studios deal, reflects Merkur’s broader strategy of integrating strong online and land-based gaming assets to build a comprehensive gaming ecosystem.
The acquisition is expected to advance Merkur’s U.S. growth ambitions and strengthen its position as a leading iGaming provider while continuing to support operators’ omni-channel strategies.