One of the fastest growing online poker networks at present is the Microgaming network. This gaming software pioneer, most famously known for their expansive family of Microgaming online casinos, has been busy signing an increasing number of poker licensees in 2006 and so far in 2007, including their most recent signing of the high profile gambling site, BetShop. Leisure and Gaming subsidiary, BetShop, is widely considered to be one of the top European online gambling companies, thus making a valuable addition to the Microgaming poker network.

With a branded presence in Europe for their land-based betting operations, BetShop has been successful at promoting online gambling through its all-in-one internet betting site offering casino games, sports betting, lotto, specialty games and online poker. BetShop Managing Director, Gabriel Chaleplis, said that much like the companies plans to introduce scratch lotto cards in their Italian gambling operations network, the move to offer online poker is right in line with the companies long-term strategic operations to expand into developing gaming markets.

Furthermore, their plans for continued expansion throughout Europe and possibly elsewhere, not to mention the fact that many of their players have not even been exposed to online poker, are helping to lend to an even busier Microgaming online poker schedule.

Microgaming already has one of the most comprehensive tournament offerings online at the current time, as well as one of the largest guaranteed pools of poker winnings. CEO of Microgaming, Roger Raatgever, said he is very pleased to be working with BetShop, whose presence in Greece, Romania, Italy, Cyprus and UK is already making waves. With increased high-speed broadband penetration in Europe, the potential for increased demand of online casino gambling and poker tournaments is absolutely brimming. Microgaming is apparently waiting with open arms to welcome new players from these rapidly evolving markets.