GambetDC, DC Lottery’s sportsbook expanded to retail on July 30th and businesses and players welcomed the new betting option.
Four well-known, DC venues—Ben’s Next Door, Lou’s City Bar, Takoma Station Tavern, and Dirty Water—are offering GambetDC’s self-service betting kiosks as a new form of entertainment in their locations.
The official launch event took place simultaneously at all four venues, allowing them to showcase the self-service betting kiosks. In addition, DC Lottery Retailer Event Staff trained attendees on how to play the game and provided them with promotion cards good for “free play” on the app or in retail locations.
The event also featured local celebrity sports figures including Brian Mitchell, Rick ‘Doc’ Walker, Fred Smoot, JP Finley and Santana Moss who were engaged with players throughout the night.
GambetDC retailers are excited to be part of the launch thanks to the 5% commission they receive on all sports betting sales, and an additional 1% commission on cashing of winnings.
In addition to making some extra money, the kiosks bring something extra to the experience as people watch their favorite teams play.
“We want to provide the best sports watch experience. We’ve got a ton of TVs. We do lots of drink deals, a lot with Bud light, but adding the sports gaming is a next-level venture,” Chris Defelice, the owner of Dirty Water, explained.
He said the kiosks complete the experience.
DC Lottery Marketing & Communications Director Nicole Jordan, who was responsible for the launch of the GambetDC mobile app and expansion into retail, noted the DC Lottery’s commitment to helping local businesses recover from the impact of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. That’s one of the driving forces for the launch of retail within the District.
“We are excited to support these iconic local businesses and to help them return from the pandemic better than they were when it started,” said Jordan. “Together, GambetDC and these local businesses are going to prove that betting on DC is always a good decision.”
GambetDC retailers and winners are not the only ones benefiting from these efforts, revenue from both the app and retail sales go to the D.C. General Fund, which funds infrastructure, education and more in the District.
Each bet goes toward the goodwill of DC’s community.
INTRALOT Inc. CEO Byron Booth says, “Our combined teams have worked countless hours to launch both the GambetDC mobile app and now the expansion of the brand into DC retail establishments. We couldn’t be prouder to have an opportunity to expand the retailer network while providing DC residents with another entertainment option that creates pride for the city.”
The four retail locations are just the beginning of the GambetDC retail program. As it grows, people will see more kiosks popping up in other locations, including convenience stores.
What’s next? The teams are focusing on increasing the retailer network and building more buzz around the city as they launch a big marketing campaign and several promotions during the upcoming football season.