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Betfred is one of the UK’s leading bookmakers. After a multi-million-pound investment in Warrington, the company has reopened its head office, highlighting a new age of innovation, employee cooperation and commitment to Warrington.
The plaque was unveiled by Fred Done of Betfred and Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, on Friday, 22 November. Sir Lindsay Hoyle also serves as the president of the Rugby Football League. Betfred, the largest supporter of rugby football and sponsor of the Betfred Super League for men’s women’s wheelchair games and the Challenge Cup, is the biggest sponsor.
Betfred moved to the Spectrum Arena from Salford in 2004. In September 2021, they will embark on a massive refurbishment.
The remodeled 50,000-square foot Spectrum building is now a lively workspace for more than 450 Betfred staff. The modern transformation is a departure for the former arena, which hosted concerts by Status Quo and New Order, as well as major snooker events.
Fred Done stated: “Reopening Spectrum HQ was a proud moment for my family and me.” We’ve come along way since we opened our first shop in Salford, in 1967. I am delighted that Sir Lindsay Hoyle is kindly agreeing to open the building because of its close association with Rugby League.
Betfred’s CEO Joanne Whitaker said: “The reopening marks a new chapter for us.” This redesign is about more than just creating a new look. It’s also about creating an inspiring and collaborative environment that reflects Betfred’s bold ambitions. We have created a dynamic environment where our teams and ideas can thrive. We are excited by the opportunities this new HQ will bring and look forward to the journey that lies ahead. “Even though we are an internationally oriented company, we felt it was important that we remain in the Northwest to stay close to our roots.”
The state-of-the art “Nifty 50”, the new home for Betfred’s numbers game, which offers a top prize worth PS5 million and is hosted live by new presenters, is a highlight of the newly renovated headquarters.
The “Immersion Tunnel” is another standout feature in the refurbishment. It is a bold, high-tech space inspired by stadiums and is designed to connect all employees throughout the building. The tunnel features a large-scale display of Betfred’s sporting history and key moments. The Betfred legacy is brought to life in the tunnel.
The project was managed by Betfred’s Head of Asset Management Peter Buckles, and Betfred’s Senior Project Manager Helen Haworth.
Peter Buckles said: “The key was to understand Betfred’s requirements. This helped guide the delivery, including elements that are unique to betting businesses. We also managed to keep the data center for more than 1400 shops, as well as our website, running with the help of the IT team during this major refurbishment. “We are all extremely proud of the work we have done for our colleagues.”
Domis Construction supported the construction of the redevelopment. Their Managing Director Kingsley Thornton stated: “It was fantastic working on such a unique and exciting project. We completely modernised and redeveloped the Spectrum Arena into an exciting Betfred headquarters.”
Jackson Downes completed the interior design. Their founder has worked with brands like JD Sports and Muse Developments.
Kate Jackson, the founder and director at Jackson Downes said, “Spectrum is a building that has always had a unique history. When we were tasked to redesign this space for Betfred it was our mission honor its rich heritage in the design. We have created a bespoke space that meets Betfred’s specific needs, but also inspires and supports their next generation of growth.
