Introduction
Under the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015, UK businesses must promote ethical practices that protect workers from exploitation. This statement outlines the steps evoke plc has taken to prevent Modern Slavery within its operations and supply chain.
evoke plc first published a transparency statement in 2017. This document serves as our seventh statement under the Act.
About evoke plc
evoke plc is a leading global betting and gaming company. Following the 2022 acquisition of William Hill’s international business, the Group operates from 11 offices worldwide and employs approximately 9,000 people. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, evoke plc is a member of the FTSE4Good Index, demonstrating our commitment to responsible business practices.
Policies and Commitment
The Group operates with integrity and respects human rights across its operations and supply chain. Our Anti-Modern Slavery Policy, approved by the Board, aligns with international standards and best practices.
Risk Assessment
The Board of evoke plc remains vigilant regarding Modern Slavery risks. We uphold a zero-tolerance approach, aligning with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and International Labour Organisation standards.
The Board’s ESG Committee oversees our Modern Slavery risk strategy. Our Procurement function regularly assesses supply chain risks and confirms that the Group remains a low-risk business. This assessment considers:
- The nature of our operations, focused on online gaming and betting.
- The absence of significant changes to our business model.
- The predominance of operations in low-risk jurisdictions, per the Global Slavery Index.
Some parts of our supply chain operate in moderate-risk regions, such as the Philippines and Romania. We continue to monitor and assess risks in these areas, with no concerns identified to date.
Due Diligence and Risk Management
The Group has strengthened its supply chain due diligence by:
- Embedding Modern Slavery clauses in supplier agreements.
- Conducting reputational checks for all new suppliers, specifically assessing Modern Slavery risks.
- Requiring suppliers responding to tenders to confirm compliance with anti-slavery laws.
Training and Awareness
Our e-learning platform provides Modern Slavery training, featuring case studies and reporting procedures. Employees are encouraged to report concerns via line managers or the independent Whistleblowing hotline.
2024 Actions
In 2024, we further strengthened our Modern Slavery risk management by:
- Reviewing and enhancing the Group’s Anti-Modern Slavery Policy.
- Continuing alert-driven monitoring of the Groups supply base.
Setting strong foundations to establishing a robust risk framework for the Group's supplier base.
2025 Commitments
We will:
- Maintain our zero-tolerance stance on Modern Slavery.
- Enhance third-party software for continuous supply chain monitoring.
- Continue to take decisive action against any non-compliant suppliers.
- Review Modern Slavery obligations as a qualification criterion in all formal tendering, with a view to enhance the existing controls.
- Publish a Supplier Code of Conduct outlining human rights expectations.
Transparency Statement
This statement is made by evoke plc in accordance with Section 54(6) of the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 for the financial year ending 31 December 2024. It was approved and signed on behalf of the Board of Directors of evoke plc on 20 March 2025.
Per Widerström
Chief Executive Officer
20 March 2025