Delaware Expands Retail Gambling With Launch of New Kiosks

The Delaware sports betting market just got a major upgrade.

The state has confirmed the launch of 89 new sports betting kiosks, with at least one at every Delaware Lottery retailer and at three casinos. The kiosks are the result of a partnership with Scientific Games, while Caesars Sportsbook provides odds.

Residents have been able to place sports wagers at lottery retailers, but were limited to the three traditional wager types (moneyline, total, spread). The kiosks will not only allow for self-service, but will also have options for player props, same-game parlays, and live betting available.

All wagers must still be placed in person at a Delaware Lottery retailer. However, the kiosks offer a “Bet Ahead” option, where players can create a bet ticket online before visiting a retailer. Once complete, the ticket will provide a code to auto-populate it on the kiosk when placing the wager.

As with casinos and online sportsbooks, bettors must be at least 21 years old to place wagers at one of the new kiosks.

Kiosks Bring Risks for Delaware

The goal of the kiosks is to expand options for residents while helping cut down on the labor required for retailers. However, Delaware is incurring significant risks.

One of the biggest involves underage gambling. The self-service option means retailers will be forced to be more proactive in checking IDs to verify that bettors are of legal age. Large crowds can lead to distracted employees and potentially open a way for local underage bettors to place wagers.

Another major concern involves the ever-growing problem gambling crisis. Increased access, additional bet types, and self-service will increase the danger for bettors who struggle with addiction, but were limited under the state’s previous rules. There are also fears that bettors who are banned (voluntarily or otherwise) from betting online will use the kiosks as a workaround. 

Lastly, there is reason to wonder how the move will affect the state’s online sports betting market. BetRivers Sportsbook brought significant growth to the market after taking over as the state’s sole operator more than two years ago. With kiosks offering expanded access and betting options, it could unintentionally shrink the state’s mobile market.