Evolution to build on NJ demand with Stars Group deal

Evolution Gaming has linked up with The Stars Group in New Jersey in a move it said will build on a demand for live casino services that has already “exceeded” expectations in the state.

Evolution will now power the live casino section of the PokerStarsCasinoNJ.com online gaming platform in New Jersey, with support from its new studio facility in Atlantic City.

The Stars Group operates a number of other online gaming brands in the state such as PokerStars and BetStars, working in partnership with tech companies including Play’n GO and Quickspin.

James Stern, director of business development and land-based sales at Evolution, said: “We have worked with The Stars Group since 2015, during which time we have worked together in a number of regulated markets in Europe.

“The immediate popularity of our live casino tables at our Atlantic City studio has exceeded even our high expectations. I am confident that PokerStars Casino New Jersey’s customers will be drawn to live casino, and enjoy the thrill of playing at our wide range of live roulette, blackjack and baccarat tables.”

Evolution last week set out plans to expand its operations in Malta, on the back of a positive set of results for the third quarter. Revenue was up 41% year-on-year to €64.3m (£57.1m/$73.4m) while operating profit climbed 27% to just over €23m.

Speaking last week, CEO Martin Carlesund cited the opening of the firm's New Jersey studio as an operational highlight of the quarter, but warned it does not expect large returns immediately.

“The US market remains a long-term project, where New Jersey marks the start of a longer journey,” he said. “The timetable for regulation in additional states is hard to predict; according to reports, Pennsylvania is next during 2019.

“Regardless of the timing, Evolution is now very well positioned to grasp the opportunities that will open up.”

Image: Marco Verch