Fanatics expands Ohio footprint with new retail sportsbook

Fanatics Betting and Gaming (FBG) has confirmed plans to grow its sports betting operation in Ohio with the development of a new retail sportsbook property.

The 5,000 sq ft Fanatics Sportsbook Columbus, will be located adjacent to FBG’s new retail sports betting partners, National Hockey League team the Columbus Blue Jackets.

It will feature 14 self-service betting kiosks, one giant LED video wall, 20 TV monitors, and a full-service restaurant available to patrons.

“The development and trading of sports betting markets will be done in-house at Fanatics Betting and Gaming and supported by a number of world-class trading suppliers,” FBG said in a statement.

The retail sportsbook is FBG’s second, following the opening of Fanatics’ inaugural retail sportsbook in Maryland earlier this year. The Ohio retail sportsbook will open its doors to bettors at the end of August.

FBG chief business officer Ari Borod welcomed the partnership with the Blue Jackets, citing the value add of being able to complement its existing online operations.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Blue Jackets to bring a world-class retail experience to the arena district in downtown Columbus,” said Borod.

“The Jackets are one of the youngest teams in the league, and we are excited to leverage our partnership to grow with them and complement our online sports betting experience that is currently being beta-tested in Ohio.”

Fanatics Betting and Gaming launched its online and mobile sportsbook operations in Ohio on May 1 and came under fire from the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) later that month after the regulator ordered the end of a promotion cross-selling sports betting via its merchandising business.

In its debut month in the Buckeye State, FBG notched up handle of more than $1m and revenue of just over $220,000, operating with a 21.2% hold.