Delaware North announced it’s shutting down Betly operations in Tennessee. The company operates Southland Casino Hotel in Arkansas and runs Betly’s online sportsbook across multiple states.
VP of Interactive Gaming Lee Terfloth said the move lets them concentrate on markets where they already have a presence. Delaware North isn’t leaving online betting entirely, they’re realigning their strategy.
The company runs Betly sportsbooks in Arkansas, Ohio and West Virginia. They also operate iCasino products in those same three states.
Why This Exit Makes Business Sense
Delaware North framed the Tennessee withdrawal as a resource optimisation move. They want to put their money and attention where they’ve already built physical casino operations.
The Arkansas focus makes sense. They own Southland Casino Hotel there. That gives them both retail and online betting in one market. Tennessee only offered online opportunities without the land-based anchor.
“We’re excited to concentrate our efforts on our existing markets,” Terfloth said. He added they’re preparing for launches in new states that will strengthen their footprint.
The company hasn’t ruled out returning to Tennessee later. But right now, they’re choosing depth over breadth.
What Tennessee Players Should Know
Betly stays live in Tennessee through December 29. That gives customers time to withdraw funds and close accounts properly.
Delaware North encouraged Tennessee players to visit Southland Casino Hotel’s sportsbook instead. Players can also bet online while physically in Arkansas.
The company formed a partnership with Acquire.Bet on October 28. That deal aims to improve user acquisition and retention across Betly’s platform. It suggests they’re investing in technology even as they narrow their geographic reach.
How Delaware North Plans to Grow
The operator’s staying committed to Betly despite the Tennessee exit. They’re leveraging their gaming and hospitality experience to improve the platform.
Terfloth emphasised continued investment in responsible gaming and innovation. The company sees future expansion opportunities but wants to build from strength first.
This pullback reflects broader industry trends. Smaller operators are consolidating their positions rather than competing everywhere. Sports betting margins have gotten tighter as competition increased.
Delaware North’s approach, owning casinos in markets where they offer online betting, gives them advantages larger online-only competitors don’t have. They can cross-promote between retail and digital. And they don’t need to spend as much on customer acquisition.
The Tennessee market will see one less option when Betly shuts down at year’s end. But Delaware North believes the tradeoff works in their favour long-term.
