SMP Partners has enhanced its egaming and e-commerce service offering with the purchase of the Amber Group.

On April 6, 2010, SMP Partners Group acquired the Amber Group of Companies, a corporate and trust services provider for the egaming sector. While Amber will become fully owned subsidiaries within SMP, the Amber brand will be retained.

Amber, a well-established trust and corporate services provider, has been a major driving force on the Isle of Man in the development of the egaming sector and has been highly influential in shaping what is now one of the island’s fastest growing sectors.

With roots stretching back to 1980, SMP offers corporate and trust services, accounting and tax, fund administration and capital market related services. Independently owned by its directors, the group was established following a management buy-out in June 2007.

As a joining together of two of the Island’s major corporate services businesses, this acquisition demonstrates the ambition of SMP and represents a significant step forward for the group in the development of its already significant focus on the egaming and e-commerce sector.

Commenting on the acquisition, Steve McGowan, chairman of SMP, said: "Some time ago we recognised the significant potential for companies and entrepreneurs to develop their business online and the Isle of Man has certainly become a world class location to host such growth and demand.

"Over the last 12 months we have significantly raised our profile in this sector and the addition of Amber and their team will greatly enhance our e-business credentials and service offering and bring very significant benefit and value to our clients and future clients.

"The strategy behind this transaction is to extend the position of Amber as the Isle of Man’s leading egaming and e-commerce firm by consolidating the core strengths of the two brands."