Elys Game Technology and T&L Hospitality have announced a three-year partnership that could bring a Washington DC sportsbook to a Days Inn.
Elys broke the news yesterday, saying the deal is in its early stages. And mentioned that the partnership needs to be licensed before a sportsbook can launch. Elys Executive Chairman Michele Ciavarella said the company’s latest deal is its goal to expand in the DC area.
“We are thrilled to partner with T & L Hospitality to operate this exciting new venue in Washington, DC, and being situated along the border of DC and MD, makes this venue accessible to players from both states. We look forward to continuing our sportsbook expansion within restaurants and bars in DC and neighboring states over the coming months.”
The news comes just a couple of months after the company received a license to open a sportsbook at the Cloakroom Gentlemen’s Club DC.
Elys plans to update 10,000 square feet at the Days Inn Hotel
According to Elys, the company has plans to open a 4,900-square-foot sportsbook lounge. Patrons can enter the lounge, scan a QR code, then place bets from their phones.
The company did not mention any betting windows or kiosks. That likely means the lounge will be an all-online betting experience. In addition to the lounge, the hotel will develop a 6,990-square-foot restaurant space including a bar and VIP room.
Washington DC sportsbook plan is an example of Elys’ growing mobile model
Elys’ work with the Days Inn is a good example of the company’s focus on joint ventures (JV). It finds companies that run properties that are conducive to sportsbook lounges. Then they pitch its mobile-first technology as an efficient way to bring in more business and earn extra revenue.
“The scaling of this distribution model is strongly gaining momentum in DC with the new JV model implemented as a result of a team effort and consultation with DC regulators,” Ciavarella said. “This small-business retail model presents not only an opportunity for neighborhood business entrepreneurs to leverage their established customer relationships, but could also drive economic opportunities in grassroots businesses.”
Their mobile-first JV model has gained traction in the nation’s capital, where the company has six operating Washington DC sportsbooks. Elys also operates in Ohio and Maryland.
Earlier this year, the Ohio Casino Control Commission and Ohio Lottery Commission granted Elys a Type C license, which allows the company to operate sports betting kiosks in establishments such as grocery stores, restaurants, and bars.
In Maryland, Elys is on track to run eight sportsbooks. Its most recent deal came in October when it announced a JV with popular Baltimore-area pool hall Top Hat Sports Bar & Grill.
