Operator News
US – Sportech puts Penn to paper
By Phil - 5 August 2013
Sportech, one of the world’s leading operators and suppliers of pools and tote gaming, has announced its US division; Sportech Racing, has signed a six year contract with Penn National Gaming, the largest owner and operator of racetrack and associated betting facilities in the United States.
Sportech Racing’s contract with Penn provides betting technology and associated services to numerous Penn-owned and/or operated properties across nine States and covers up to 11 racetrack properties, five off-track wagering venues and an Internet and telephone account wagering service.
Sportech has the largest operations in the United States of any UK gaming company where it currently processes 50 per cent of all horseracing bets. This win further strengthens Sportech’s presence in this significant marketplace and the Group remains well positioned for future deregulation across the country.
Ian Penrose, Sportech CEO, said: “We are delighted to have secured this long-term contract with Penn National Gaming, the largest racetrack and associated betting facility operator in the United States. This further strengthens our position in the United States, and builds upon the international momentum following sales to the UK Tote and a contract with Danske Spil, the State owned Danish gaming operator, earlier this year.”
Andrew Gaughan, Managing Director of Sportech Racing, stated: “We are very pleased to have been selected by Penn National Gaming to be the exclusive provider of pari-mutuel wagering services across their properties and for their growing family of racing operations. Sportech PLC’s ongoing investment in our Racing and Interactive technologies and services will allow us to serve the current and future needs of Penn National Gaming, and to deliver industry-leading solutions that will allow them to remain on the leading edge of horseracing and wagering entertainment.”
Christopher McErlean, Vice President, Racing at Penn National Gaming, added: “We sought to enter into a partnership with a company that would bring significant advantages to Penn National Gaming in the form of improvements to the customer betting experience, increased compatibility between our properties, and delivery of improved operational efficiencies. After a thorough competitive bidding process, we determined that Sportech Racing was that partner.”
