888 to re-enter Dutch market via ComeOn Group partnership
Summary
Evoke has agreed a strategic partnership with ComeOn Group that will see the 888 brand return to the Netherlands. ComeOn will operate the Dutch-facing 888.nl site under a local licence, offering online casino (slots, exclusive games, live tables) and a sportsbook covering a range of sports.
Both companies emphasised the strength of the 888 brand and the benefits of a low-capital, market-entry partnership. The tie-up marks 888’s return after nearly four years out of the Dutch market following its exit when the regulated market launched in October 2021.
Context and relevance
The move comes amid regulatory turbulence in the Netherlands, where tax increases on gross gaming revenue (from 30.5% to 34.2% at the start of 2025, and scheduled to rise to 37.8% next year) have prompted other operators to withdraw. Evoke says the deal aligns with its strategy to expand in regulated markets with a partner that can operate the brand locally.
Separately, Evoke expects a year-on-year revenue rise of about 5% in Q2, driven by a 6% increase in its online business and improved retail performance; H1 group revenue is forecast to be 3% higher year-on-year.
Source
Source: https://igamingbusiness.com/sports-betting/888-enter-dutch-market-comeon/
Key Points
- • Evoke and ComeOn Group have partnered so ComeOn will operate 888.nl under a Dutch licence.
- • The site will offer online casino (slots, exclusive titles, live casino) and sportsbook markets.
- • 888 is returning after almost four years away following its 2021 withdrawal when the regulated Dutch market launched.
- • Rising Dutch gambling taxes have pressured other operators to exit; tax on gross gaming revenue rose to 34.2% in 2025 and will increase to 37.8% next year.
- • Evoke expects a 5% year-on-year revenue rise in Q2, with online revenue up 6%; H1 revenue forecast +3% year-on-year.
- • The partnership is described as a high-impact, low-capital route for 888 to re-enter a regulated market via a local operator with proprietary tech and responsible-gaming focus.
Why should I read this?
Quick heads-up: 888’s back in the Netherlands — but not flying solo. ComeOn will run 888.nl, so expect the familiar brand to return fast without Evoke having to invest heavily. If you follow market moves, licensing shifts or competitive line-ups in Western Europe, this changes the landscape and signals operators’ preference for partnerships to re‑enter tough regulated markets.
Author style
Punchy: this is a notable comeback for a major global brand into a tricky, high-tax regulated market. Worth reading in full if you track market entries, operator strategies or regulatory impact on operator behaviour.