Distributed gaming operator J&J Gaming is expanding its footprint in the Midwest through the acquisition of Midwest Amusements LLC, adding hundreds of new gaming devices across three states.
The companies did not disclose financial terms. Midwest Amusements operates more than 420 gaming machines throughout Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming, with most placements located in convenience stores and truck stops.
In a statement, J&J Gaming said the deal strengthens its position as the leading installer and operator of regulated gaming devices in restaurants, bars, taverns, convenience stores, truck stops, and other authorized venues. With the addition of Midwest Amusements, J&J’s platform will exceed 32,200 gaming devices across 4,200 locations in seven jurisdictions.
The Illinois‑based company already maintains a sizable presence in its home state as well as in Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wyoming.
Acquisition Strategy Continues to Drive J&J’s Growth
J&J Gaming has leaned heavily on acquisitions to expand its geographic reach and machine count—an approach that has proven effective in the distributed gaming sector.
One of the company’s most notable transactions came in 2023, when it acquired Golden Entertainment’s distributed gaming operations in Montana and Nevada for $361.5 million. As part of that deal, J&J entered a five‑year agreement to service gaming operations at Golden’s extensive network of Nevada taverns. Today, customers playing at any PT’s Tavern location in the Las Vegas Valley are using machines serviced by J&J.
Regarding the Midwest Amusements acquisition, J&J Gaming CEO Bob Willenborg said the move aligns with the company’s long‑term strategy.
“This acquisition represents another key step in J&J Gaming’s growth strategy as we strengthen our presence across Nebraska and the Midwest,” Willenborg said. “We are thrilled to welcome their team and partners into the J&J family as we continue to expand our footprint and deliver industry‑leading solutions across the country.”
Distributed Gaming Sector Poised for Consolidation
While distributed gaming lacks the flash of iGaming, sports betting, or full‑scale casinos, it remains a high‑margin, steady‑cash‑flow business. The sector is also highly fragmented, with only a handful of operators approaching J&J’s scale—conditions that analysts say make the industry ripe for consolidation.
Recent activity supports that view. Alongside J&J’s latest acquisition, Accel Entertainment (NYSE: ACEL)—the only publicly traded pure distributed gaming operator—has been aggressively expanding its own footprint. Last month, Accel announced the purchase of Dynasty Games, strengthening its presence in Northern Nevada, following several similar deals completed in 2024.
