Who Owns Hollywoodbets? The Inspiring Story Behind South Africa’s Betting Giant
Answer - Owen Heffer
Introduction to Hollywoodbets
Hollywoodbets has grown into a household name in South Africa, renowned for its sports betting platforms and community involvement. With a presence across multiple continents, the company has become a leader in the betting industry. But who owns Hollywoodbets, and how did it achieve its phenomenal success? Let’s delve into the inspiring journey of its founders and the milestones that shaped this brand.
Founders and Humble Beginnings
The Hollywoodbets story begins with Owen and Lesley Heffer, a couple with a vision and entrepreneurial spirit. In the 1980s, the Heffers moved to Durban, South Africa, from Zimbabwe. Faced with the need to make a living, Owen started selling printed tipping sheets near the Greyville Racecourse. These sheets provided betting enthusiasts with insights into horse racing, quickly gaining popularity among punters.
Owen’s dedication to quality and detail laid the foundation for Winning Form, a publishing company specializing in racecards for South African horse races. Winning Form became a trusted name in the horse racing community and set the stage for Hollywoodbets’ future ventures.
The Birth of Hollywoodbets
In 1998, leveraging the success of Winning Form, Owen Heffer partnered with Suren Rampersadh to establish their first betting shop near Greyville Racecourse. This marked the official birth of Hollywoodbets. The shop’s proximity to the racecourse attracted a steady stream of customers, and the business began to flourish.
By 2000, the company opened its first branch in Durban, offering a broader range of betting options. As technology advanced, Hollywoodbets embraced the digital era, launching its online platform in 2006 and a mobile website in 2009. These innovations ensured the brand stayed ahead of competitors and appealed to a younger, tech-savvy audience.
Leadership and Growth
Hollywoodbets owes much of its success to its visionary leadership. Owen Heffer remains actively involved in the company, contributing his decades of expertise and passion for the business. Suren Rampersadh, the current CEO, has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s growth and innovation. His efforts were recognized in 2018 when he won the Best CEO of the Year award at the Gambling Industry Awards.
Other key figures include Rowan Cross, the Chief Operating Officer, and Devin Heffer, Brand and Communications Executive. Together, this leadership team has steered Hollywoodbets to new heights, overseeing its expansion to over 80 branches across South Africa and ventures in countries like the UK, Ireland, and Mozambique.
Hollywoodbets and Community Impact
Beyond business success, Hollywoodbets is deeply committed to giving back. In 2021, the company launched the Hollywood Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at community development. The foundation focuses on areas such as welfare, education, sports, and arts and culture.
Additionally, Hollywoodbets has become a prominent sponsor of sports teams and events, including partnerships with Brentford Football Club in the English Premier League and various local teams. These initiatives reflect the company’s dedication to fostering growth both on and off the field.
Commitment to Responsible Gambling
As a licensed operator under various gambling boards, including the Gauteng Gambling Board and the KwaZulu-Natal Gambling Board, Hollywoodbets ensures that its operations adhere to strict regulations. The company also promotes responsible gambling, offering tools and resources to help customers maintain a healthy relationship with betting.
Hollywoodbets has introduced innovative betting methods like USSD and phone betting, catering to customers with diverse needs and preferences. These initiatives not only broaden the company’s reach but also demonstrate its commitment to accessibility and customer satisfaction.
From Humble Origins to Industry Leadership
From selling tip sheets to becoming a global leader in sports betting, the journey of Hollywoodbets is a testament to entrepreneurial vision and resilience. Owen and Lesley Heffer’s dream, nurtured by Suren Rampersadh and an exceptional leadership team, has grown into a brand synonymous with excellence and community support.
As Hollywoodbets continues to expand and innovate, its story remains an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and a shining example of how businesses can balance success with social responsibility.
Conclusion
Who owns Hollywoodbets? The answer lies in the remarkable story of Owen and Lesley Heffer and their partnership with Suren Rampersadh. Together, they built a legacy that transcends betting, touching lives through community development and innovation. Hollywoodbets’ journey is far from over, and its future promises even greater achievements.