International Game Technology (IGT) has announced plans to grow its presence in Puerto Rico. The Caribbean island and US territory has seen steady growth in its gambling industry in the past year, with operators like BetMGM launching its sports betting app in the area this summer.
IGT has partnered with Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino in a multi-year IGT PlaySports agreement, where IGT will provide technology and services. These services will drive PlayBets by Ponce Plaza, the first casino brand-led retail and mobile sportsbook in Puerto Rico.
IGT has reported fairly stagnant financial results in previous quarters, with Q3 2023 results of $1.06bn matching that of the year's first two quarters. This move to power Puerto Rico’s first mobile and retail land-based sportsbook may provide an opportunity for IGT to break this trend.
On the agreement, Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino General Manager Ramon Muñoz said, "IGT has been a valued Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino gaming equipment supplier for many years, and we are thrilled to expand our strategic alliance and entertainment portfolio with PlayBets by Ponce Plaza."
Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino has been in operation for 15 years, opening in 2008 and currently offering table games like blackjack, roulette and bingo. Accompanying this is 260 slot machines and various entertainment as well as rooms for guests.
"IGT PlaySports looks forward to helping Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino deliver the excitement of multi-channel sports betting to fans in the region," said IGT President of Sports Betting Joe Asher.
"By adding sports betting to their gaming enterprise, Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino will be equipped with a valuable new player acquisition tool that will drive new customers to the property and enhance the overall experience at the hotel."
