Publishers Clearing House May Be Mulling Gaming Foray

• Famous sweepstakes operator hires gaming advisory firm
• Could look to monetize vast database of potential bettors

It’s not a stretch to say that a vast of majority of Americans with mailboxes and televisions are at least somewhat familiar with Publishers Clearing House (PCH).

The sweepstakes operator has been in business for more than seven decades and is known for its vast direct-to-consumer marketing platform and its famous Prize Patrol. Now, the company may be looking to venture into social gaming as highlighted by a newly announced partnership with gaming advisory firm SCCG Management.

“SCCG Management is a leading advisory firm in the global gaming industry, dedicated to driving strategic growth and maximizing revenue for over 120 client-partners across diverse iGaming verticals,” according to the company.

Las Vegas-based SCCG has been in business for more than three decades and has a vast client roster, including iGaming and sports wagering operators, gaming technology firms, and sports leagues, teams, and tours.

Gaming Transition Could Be Ideal for PCH

Originally founded as a different spin on door-to-door magazine sales, PCH could make for an ideal participant on the internet side of the gaming business.

Social casinos differ from traditional iGaming counterparts in that most of the offerings in the category have free-to-play options and don’t feature real money rewards. Should it pursue a broader social gaming entry, PCH could blur that line because it does offer games with cash prizes, but it could stay on the right side of regulators by not embracing a traditional internet casino model.

Ed Leahy, head of sales at PCH, didn’t get into particulars except to say the company is excited to realize “new growth potential” by working with SCCG.

Publishers Clearing House Could Be a Social Gaming Force

The extent to which PCH pursues social gaming remains to be seen, as does the potential regulatory effects of such a move. What’s not up for debate is the company’s ability to possibly make a splash in the space.

Not to mention the firm enjoys brand recognition that’s likely well in excess of many of the operators currently in the space.