Capital conglomerate Virgin Group is set to partner online casino and bingo operator Gamesys to launch a new internet gambling service in New Jersey later this week.
Due to be launched on Friday, Virgincasino.com will become one of 15 websites approved for play in the US state.
The website began testing during the state’s soft launch period in November 2013, but the companies opted to hold off on a full launch in order to address issues related to geolocation and payment processing.
“We wanted to refine the experience and make sure it was as good as it could possibly be for the customer,” Gamesys’ chief operating officer, Lee Fenton, said.
The Virgincasino.com website will offer more than 30 games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat and slots, as well as a community jackpot that awards $20,000 (€14,767) even after a player hits the grand prize.
Virgin already operates an online gambling service in the UK, with the Jackpotjoy brand proving to be its most successful venture with over four million players. The firm said it now plans to make New Jersey its online gambling headquarters.
“We hope to provide New Jersey players with a globally leading, safe, fun and rewarding online gambling experience,” Virgin Group founder Richard Branson said.
Gamesys is already active in the US state through its online gambling partnership with the Tropicana Casino & Resort.
Under New Jersey law, in order to operate in the state, online gambling companies must partner an Atlantic City casino to offer internet gaming. A total of seven of the 11 New Jersey casinos now have online gambling permits.
