Covid-19 forces SIS into “hibernation mode”

The suspension of almost all live racing and closure of retail betting shops worldwide as a result of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has forced Sports Information Services (SIS) to shut down all non-essential services and furlough a significant number of staff.

The betting data and software provider explained that it had taken the step to protect its long-term future, and ensure it would be able to resume normal service for customers and partners when appropriate.

During the shut-down, it will continue to supply online content to operators when available, though all retail solutions will be suspended.

“SIS is moving into an interim period of hibernation in these extraordinary times,” chief executive Richard Ames said. “I am pleased to be able to confirm that our intention is to come back just as strongly as before and to be back up and running to serve the needs of our customers as soon as live racing content returns to action. “We are taking this action to protect the business and to preserve the jobs of our hard-working team,” he explained. “I thank each of them for their fantastic commitment to continuing to service our content partners and customers throughout the last challenging weeks and look forward to welcoming them back into the business as soon as possible.”