Accel Entertainment has begun its entry into Chicago's distributed gaming market after receiving its first licences to place video gaming terminals at local establishments. The company expects the first locations to start operating within weeks and says it can support the launch largely through its existing Illinois infrastructure.
CDC Gaming reports that Accel plans to install about four and a half terminals per participating location. Chief executive Mark Phelan said the operator expects to add roughly 100 to 200 Chicago locations a year as the market develops, while further expansion will depend on additional licences and venues becoming operational.
The rollout follows a third quarter in which Accel's revenue reached $364 million, up 10% from a year earlier. Net income increased 55% to $21 million and adjusted EBITDA rose 12% to $57 million. Illinois revenue excluding Fairmount Park grew about 7% even as Accel reported fewer locations and machines in the state, reflecting a shift toward stronger-performing venues.
Chicago is classified by the company as an emerging market, so early deployment costs may precede a meaningful contribution to earnings. Accel nevertheless expects the city's licensed-location base to become a significant extension of its Illinois network. The pace will depend on regulatory issuance, venue readiness and the economics of each location rather than a single citywide launch date.
