Zak Thomas-Akoo, Head of Investigative Content at NEXT.io, has been recognised as the inaugural Gambling Industry Journalist of the Year at the European Casino Awards. This ceremony was held alongside ICE Barcelona on Monday. 

This marks the first time the category has been awarded by organisers of the Gambling Book Awards. It was introduced to recognise excellent, unique, and impactful journalism within the gambling industry.

New Award Celebrates Industry Journalism

This category was launched by The Gambling Files podcast co-hosts, Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello. The award was presented by the former on the night.

Thomas-Akoo was shortlisted alongside Jake Pollard of the Gaming&Co newsletter and Jess Marquez of iGB. As the overall winner, he received the top prize of £4,000, while the other finalists were awarded £1,000 each.

According to the judges, this decision reflected the increased importance of investigative and accountability-driven reporting in the gambling industry. With regulation, politics and business pressures growing worldwide, strong journalism is more necessary than ever.

Winner Describes Moment as Surreal

Speaking after the ceremony, Thomas-Akoo described the win as surreal, praising his fellow finalists and the organisers. 

“It’s genuinely humbling to win an award like this, particularly alongside journalists whose work I respect so highly. I’m grateful to Jon and Fintan for creating a platform that values industry journalism, and to the European Casino Awards for such a memorable evening.”

He also thanked his editors, colleagues and the team at NEXT.io for their support throughout his career. “I’ve been extremely fortunate to work with outstanding editors over the years and to have the support of a publication that stands behind independent reporting, even when that work sometimes invites pressure or legal threats,” he added.

Growing Influence of Trade Journalism

Reflecting on the state of trade journalism, Thomas-Akoo stated that this sector is still developing but becoming more influential. 

“Industry reporting is maturing fast, and there has never been a stronger group of writers working in this space. At its best, trade journalism can genuinely influence outcomes, not just report on them. I’m convinced the most important work is still to come.”

The Gambling Files podcast, which introduced the award, has released more than 240 episodes over the past four years. Its content focuses on regulation, policy, enforcement and market developments across global gambling industries.