Interactive gaming company Elys Game Technology (Elys) and independently owned operator Grand Central have received a Class B operator license from the District of Columbia’s Office of Lottery and Gaming.
This paves the way for Grand Central to operate a sportsbook within its Grand Central Restaurant and Bar, with Elys providing turnkey solutions on kiosk hardware.
In addition, Elys was granted a Class B standard management services provider license, to permit it to provide certain Services to Grand Central. Among these are business intelligence support, odds and events and risk management.
As part of the partnership, Elys and Grand Central will work together on marketing campaigns and joint branding ventures.
“We have been a part of the vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood since Grand Central opened in 2007,” said Brian Vasile, owner of Grand Central.
“We are very honored to have been approved as the first Class B licensed operator by the DC Office of Lottery and Gaming and believe that our establishment will serve as a showcase example for this operational model and a key role in the economic growth of this rooted residential and commercial neighborhood, as well as the greater DC area.”
It is estimated that the sportsbook will be in operation by October 2021, while the on-site mobile app will be available in 2022.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be granted our first U.S. based sports wagering license and are looking forward to launching our Elys Gameboard U.S. platform at Grand Central Restaurant & Bar, in Washington, DC,” said Michele Ciavarella, executive chairman of Elys.
“For ages, sports events and championship games have been consumed and enjoyed the most in restaurants and bars, and we believe that the unique Class B classification established by the DC Office of Lottery and Gaming will pioneer an entirely new and exciting vertical where sports wagering could elevate the dining and gathering experience at bars and restaurants throughout North America.”