JOA acquired by BANIJAY GROUP
Context
Blackstone has announced the sale of its entire ownership interest in JOA to Banijay Gaming, bringing to a close nearly nine years of ownership of France’s second-largest casino operator by number of venues. The transaction represents a new chapter for JOA following a period of expansion driven by organic growth and selective acquisitions that strengthened its position in the French regulated gaming market. For Banijay Gaming, the acquisition forms part of a broader strategy to build an integrated European gaming platform. The addition of JOA’s network of casinos, restaurants and hospitality assets complements the group’s existing sports betting and online gaming activities, creating a business spanning both land-based and digital gaming channels. The combination is expected to generate commercial opportunities by leveraging the complementary capabilities of both organisations. Banijay plans to strengthen connections between its digital gaming platforms and JOA’s physical venues while enhancing the overall customer experience through its expertise in entertainment and content creation. Following completion, the companies intend to implement a phased integration programme focused on harmonising operational processes, technology platforms and selected support functions. The combined group also expects to optimise loyalty programmes, consolidate procurement activities and improve operational efficiency across the enlarged organisation. Through this acquisition, Banijay Gaming significantly strengthens its presence in the European gaming industry while advancing its strategy of combining online gaming, land-based casinos and entertainment assets. At the same time, JOA will benefit from the financial resources, operational expertise and international reach of a larger diversified group.
It is worth noting that the fund Blackstone took control of Joa through an LBO in 2017.
JOA, which reported an EBITDA margin of in 2025, is valued in this transaction at an EV/EBITDA multiple of , a level to compare with the average currently observed in the Retail & Consumer sector (10.9x).
Note that this data is based on contribution from our growing community, composed of M&A and Private Equity professionals, and has been verified by our team to ensure its accuracy.
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Target
JOA is one of France’s leading casino operators, providing an integrated entertainment and hospitality offering through a nationwide network of gaming venues. The group combines regulated casino gaming with restaurants, bars and, at selected locations, hotel facilities to deliver a comprehensive customer experience. Its portfolio includes slot machines, traditional table games, electronic gaming solutions and dedicated food and event spaces. This diversified offering enables JOA to generate multiple revenue streams while enhancing customer engagement across its venues.
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Historical Financials (EUR)
Other operations with JOA
| Date | Acquirer | Target | Country | Sector | Deal Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10/2017 | BLACKSTONE | JOA | FRANCE | Gambling & Betting | Blackstone has completed the acquisition of JOA, one of France’s leading casino operators. The transaction follows a competitive sale process and marks a new phase in the company’s development after a period of restructuring and repositioning that strengthened its market position and operational foundations. For Blackstone, the investment is consistent with its strategy of backing established businesses operating in regulated markets with attractive consolidation opportunities. The firm intends to support JOA’s next stage of growth by building on the strength of its brand, nationwide casino network and complementary portfolio of gaming, hospitality and digital entertainment activities |
REFERENCES
Revenue range: 250M - 500M EUR
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Authors: verified mynth contributor (mynth data is contributed by M&A / PE professionals and systematically cross-verified with private deal documents and official press releases).
Press release: view release
Acquirer: banijay group