Banijay Gaming buys French casino operator JOA to drive its omnichannel strategy

Deal for France’s second biggest casino group includes network of 33 casinos

Banijay Gaming has committed to buying French casino group JOA, marking another important step in its strategy to build a European diversified gaming leader in light of evolving customer expectations, from funds managed by Blackstone and Kings Park Capital pursuant to a put option agreement.

JOA is the second-largest casino operator in France, with a nationwide network of 33 casinos rooted in every region generating approximately €430m in gross revenues in 2025. Its venues combine gaming with restaurants, bars and a broad range of leisure experiences, which attract over 4.6m yearly customers.

Following the acquisition of Tipico Group in April 2026, this transaction further expands Banijay Gaming’s omnichannel capabilities by adding its digital expertise to JOA’s wide network of land-based entertainment destinations.

At the heart of this transaction is a long-term value creation story: Banijay Gaming will accelerate JOA’s next phase of development in France and internationally.

Responsible gaming remains central to Banijay Gaming’s strategy, with both companies continuing to raise standards and share best practices in line with a common commitment to player protection.

Laurent Lassiaz, Chairman of JOA, will continue to lead JOA alongside the existing management team, ensuring continuity for employees, customers and local stakeholders. Completion of the transaction is expected during H2 2026, subject to JOA’s employee representatives’ consultation and customary regulatory approvals including merger control and casino gaming regulatory approvals.

Nicolas Béraud, Chairman of Banijay Gaming, commented: “Customers increasingly expect seamless experiences across digital and physical environments, and this transaction positions us perfectly to respond to that evolution. We look forward to supporting JOA’s next phase of development by bringing our expertise in technology, artificial intelligence and data, while preserving the entrepreneurial culture and operational excellence that have made the company successful.”

Laurent Lassiaz, Chairman of JOA, added: “Joining Banijay Gaming marks an exciting new chapter for JOA. After a successful period with Blackstone and Kings Park Capital, which laid the foundations for our growth, we have found another long-term partner with whom we share a common vision for the future. Their expertise in technology and digital innovation will help us accelerate our omnichannel development, while allowing us to preserve the entrepreneurial spirit and local roots that have always been our strength. Together, we will be ideally positioned to pursue our ambitions in France and internationally.”

François Riahi, CEO of Banijay Group, added: “ The acquisition of Tipico has transformed us into a diversified omnichannel European leader in gaming, and the acquisition of JOA is fully relevant with this evolution. As in Germany and Austria, we will become a leader in land-based gaming in another of our core countries: France. We welcome happily the JOA teams in Banijay Group, where they will find a positive entrepreneurial environment to continue their growth and create value. Very happy also to enlarge our set up in France, with assets and people all over the country.”