Accel Entertainment has expanded its video gaming device (VGD) operations in Louisiana with the acquisition of Rice Palace Truck Stop Casino, as the operator is also set to increase property’s VGD count to 60 machines in the “near term.”
While financial details of the transaction were not released, Accel will grow its VGD count in Louisiana by 8%, as well as leverage data analytics and promotional systems to further customer engagement, improve operational efficiencies and drive growth over time.
“This accretive acquisition reflects our continued momentum in Louisiana and our confidence in the long-term growth potential of this market,” Accel Entertainment CEO Andy Rubenstein said.
“Rice Palace has built a strong business grounded in local relationships, around-the-clock service, authentic local dining and operational discipline, and we’re excited to welcome them to the Toucan Gaming family. Together, we look forward to investing in this location and delivering best-in-class gaming solutions to customers across southern Louisiana.”
The operator’s Toucan Gaming subsidiary purchased the assets of Rice Palace and South Louisiana Gaming, which owns and operates the 50 VGDs currently offered within Rice Palace Truck Stop Casino.
Toucan Gaming CEO Stan Guidroz also spoke on the transaction, having said, “With this agreement, Toucan is strengthening its scale and route footprint in our home state of Louisiana.
“Combined with our existing operations, this acquisition supports our strategy of disciplined expansion focused on great entertainment, operational excellence, technology deployment and new location development.”
In Illinois, Accel introduced live table games at Fairmount Park Casino & Racing on April 28, bringing in professional dealers for blackjack, roulette and novelty games such as Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em.
The racino is also home to live thoroughbred horseracing, a FanDuel sportsbook facility and more than 250 slot machines.
Accel Entertainment appointed Bruce Wardinski to its Board of Directors on May 8, where he will also serve on the Compensation Committee and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
