In an exciting new development for sports enthusiasts in British Columbia, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) is introducing the province’s first-ever retail sportsbook lounges. These new PROLINE-branded lounges will debut in Kelowna and Vancouver, marking a significant step in BCLC’s efforts to modernize sports betting across the region.

PROLINE sportsbook lounges set to open in Kelowna and Vancouver:

The inaugural sportsbook lounge will open at Chances Casino Kelowna on Super Bowl Sunday, offering a sneak preview of what’s to come before the official public opening on February 10. This first-of-its-kind lounge in British Columbia will feature an impressive 25-foot screen, food and beverage options, and dedicated PROLINE betting terminals, creating a comprehensive sports viewing and betting experience for both casual fans and serious bettors.

Following the Kelowna opening, BCLC will launch a second sportsbook lounge at Parq Casino in Vancouver in March, further expanding its footprint in the retail sports betting landscape. These lounges are designed to offer more than just betting opportunities; they are intended to be top-tier destinations for fans to gather and enjoy the thrill of watching live sports events, making them ideal spots for gamedays and special sporting occasions.

According to Canadian Gaming Business, a spokesperson from BCLC emphasized that these lounges are a game-changer for both the sports and betting communities: “The sportsbook lounge is not just for sports betting; it is a go-to viewing destination for both regular gamedays and the biggest sporting events of the year, where B.C. sports fans and sports bettors can watch their favourite teams together.”

The launch of these lounges coincides with the ongoing evolution of BCLC’s PROLINE sportsbook platform, which replaced the long-standing Sports Action sportsbook in 2024. The revamped PROLINE offers a fully modernized betting experience, including fully digital bet slips, a wide variety of bet types, and expanded markets, particularly for local teams. BCLC’s efforts to modernize its offerings aim to cater to an increasing demand for diverse and convenient sports betting options.

As part of the new sportsbook experience, BCLC has also introduced in-play retail betting with dynamic odds, a first for any Canadian lottery system. This allows bettors to place wagers during games with odds that adjust in real time, providing a more dynamic and engaging experience. Brett Hanson, BCLC’s Manager of Retail Sports, highlighted this development in an interview, noting that live odds have already been available in BCLC’s retail locations for a few months.

Future expansion plans for PROLINE lounges and sports betting:

The two new lounges in Kelowna and Vancouver are just the beginning of BCLC’s broader strategy to expand its retail sports betting offerings. BCLC has expressed plans to introduce more PROLINE sportsbooks at other casinos throughout British Columbia, though specific locations and timelines have not yet been revealed.

Additionally, the corporation aims to enhance sports betting experiences in B.C. bars and pubs, as well as provide new offerings at casinos across the province. BCLC’s efforts to modernize the sports betting landscape align with their goal of providing sports fans and bettors with innovative, accessible, and engaging ways to interact with their favorite sports and teams.

As the official sports betting partner of the Vancouver Canucks, Abbotsford Canucks, Vancouver Warriors, and BC Lions, BCLC’s increased presence in the province’s sports scene further solidifies its role as a key player in the growing sports betting industry.

BCLC’s efforts to integrate dynamic odds and other advanced betting features into retail locations highlight the corporation’s forward-thinking approach. Dan Beebe, BCLC’s Chief Operating Officer, reflected on the evolution of PROLINE, stating, “PROLINE offers an updated and innovative sports betting experience and is the pivotal next step for BCLC in offering exciting new sports products to our valued players.” This move marks a significant milestone for sports betting in British Columbia, offering fans an upgraded, more immersive way to enjoy their favourite games and place their bets.