The Greek betting market is predominately controlled by OPAP a monopoly operator. This year the European Commission began applying pressure to Greece letting them know they need to liberalise their gambling market. The Commission did this by sending a final warning to Greece about their restrictive policies. The OPAP has stated they will use whatever means necessary to defend their monopoly position.

One company is working their way into the betting market in Greece. Stanleybet International is moving into the Greek gambling market by opening two retail outlets that will specialize in football betting and seasonal sporting events. One store will be opened in Athens and the other in Thessalonica. Both stores will offer face to face service that will assure customers of their betting transaction.

The Deputy Managing Director of Stanleybet International, Adrian Morris, commented on the stores opening: “We are delighted to establish a sports betting service in Greece, the eighth European country in which we are now providing them. Our aim is always the same, to provide our customers with both choice and good value, in a responsible and regulated market. Greeks love sports and we anticipate they will enjoy the opportunity with which we are now providing them.”



- 2008-10-30