Gaming entertainment products supplier WMS Industries has reported a fall in fourth-quarter net income despite a significant increase in revenue associated with interactive products and services.
Revenue for the quarter climbed to $203 million (€153 million) from $196 million a year ago, with interactive gaming products and services accounting for a rise of $16.2 million to $17.4 million year-on-year.
Overall gaming operations revenue increased by about a third to $83.4 million.
However, product sales revenue fell by 10.3% and unit shipments declined by 12.7%.
“Our investments in research and development during the last several years have supported the development of great new products, games and innovative new gaming experiences that deliver substantial value for our casino customers and have set WMS on a path for renewed long-term growth,” Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian Gamache said.
“We are highly encouraged by the successful development efforts and growth initiatives of our interactive products and services during the past year and expect to achieve additional growth in fiscal 2014 as we further monetise key game launches and realise ongoing benefits from the recent expanded availability of our Jackpot Party Social Casino in tablet and mobile device channels.
“We are confident that our interactive gaming initiatives and distribution opportunities for our content and games in these growing channels is a source of significant long-term growth potential for the company.”
Meanwhile WMS subsidiary Williams Interactive has entered into a long-term strategic relationship with UK bookmaker William Hill to supply its full portfolio of online slot games to customers of William Hill Online casino.
The games are expected to be available to William Hill players by the end of this year.
James Curwen, Director of Gaming at William Hill, said, “William Hill has been developing bespoke games of the highest calibre through this channel and we look forward to featuring selected high quality WMS games exclusively through the Vegas tab, and the competitive advantage we believe these unique player experiences will bring us in the marketplace.”
