Leisure and Gaming (L&G) is fast becoming one of the largest and most diverse online gaming operators in the world with their recent buyout of Nine Sportsbook/Casino/Racebook/PokerRoom and one of the internet's most respected and established online casinos, English Harbour. 

After first taking over the VIP network of gaming sites, L&G has been methodically planning out a long-term strategy to secure itself in the online gambling industry, put emphasis into online casinos and sportsbooks.

Prior to Nine and English Harbour, L&G bought out Acropolis Casino.  This purchase was done through gambling giant, Stanley Leisure, less than a month ago.  According to to L&G CEO, Alistair Assheton, all of the recent acquisitions - even the initial purchase of the VIP Group - are a part of the company's vision to become a uniquely branded online gaming operator.

Ever since their AIM flotation, L&G has been generating a continuous and growing source of revenue -  And expectedly so, for this was needed to pay the pretty price tag on Nine and English Harbour.  Nine.com, which operates an inventive casino and sports marketing campaign much like Bodog's, sold for a total of $57 million - $36 million paid up front, with the remainder paid upon completion of expected 2006 revenues.  English Harbour, which is a very solid online casino, sold for over $23 million - $13.75 million paid up front, with the remainder paid out based on expected 2006 revenues.