MGM Resorts International has been previously unsuccessful in its quest to enter into the Pennsylvania gambling industry. About a year ago, MGM Resort’s deal to buy Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem fell apart after then owner, Las Vegas Sands, found another suitor. However, MGM did not let go of its desires to be part of the gambling market in the state Now, the operator’s efforts have finally borne some fruit thanks to a recent partnership that will allow it to tap into the Keystone State’s gambling market.
On Monday, MGM Resorts International and Boyd Gaming Corporation announced that they had inked a deal for an unprecedented partnership that is going to significantly increase each of their market access and customer bases in the United States.
What the Partnership Entails
The partnership has given both MGM Resorts and Boyd Gaming the opportunity to offer online and mobile gaming platforms – these include casino gaming, poker, and sports betting. The said online and mobile games will be available in all the jurisdictions where either of the companies operates a physical casino resort or have online gaming licenses. In addition to this, the market access agreement between the two companies gives each of them the opportunity to expand their online and mobile gaming offering across a total of 15 states including Pennsylvania.
“We are excited to team up yet again with Boyd Gaming on this unprecedented partnership, which allows us to fully engage with the almost 30 million M life Rewards members throughout the country,” said MGM Resorts Chairman & CEO, Jim Murren. “We look forward to expanding our entertainment options for guests beyond their visits to our land-based resorts.”
Furthermore, as per the terms of the agreement, MGM Resorts also intends to provide the acquired market access to its joint venture with GVC Holdings PLC. The 50-50 joint venture that was also announced on Monday will see the two companies collaborating in establishing sports betting and online gaming platforms in the United States.
As more states continue to legalize interactive gaming and sports betting, MGM and Boyd Gaming will be able to effectively offer their products and services in all places where it is legally applicable.
“Our industry is evolving, providing opportunities for growth through new forms of gaming like online and mobile gaming,” said Boyd Gaming President and CEO Keith Smith. “Thanks to our partnership with MGM Resorts, Boyd Gaming will have the opportunity to potentially add an online presence in five additional states, positioning us for significant future growth as our respective companies take a leadership role in our industry’s evolution.”