American casino operator Hard Rock International has announced the launch of its new Hard Rock Digital entity to serve as the sole instigator for all of its future global sportsbetting and iGaming endeavors.

The firm owned by the federally-recognized Seminole Tribe of Florida used an official Monday press release to detail that the fresh venture is to be led by gaming industry stalwarts Rafi Ashkenazi, Marlon Goldstein and Matt Primeaux in the roles of Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President respectively. The giant operator also stated that this trio were previously part of a leadership team that helped grow and transform ‘several technology and interactive gaming businesses’ including Playtech and The Stars Group Incorporated and will now be obliged to report to an independent board led by its own Chairman, Jim Allen.

Considerable assistance:

Hard Rock International pronounced that its Hard Rock Digital enterprise is to be headquartered in Hollywood, Florida, and will moreover exploit its database of over 130 million customers and nearly 250 land-based venues spread across 76 countries ‘to provide an omni-channel offering for interactive gaming and sportsbetting’. It furthermore asserted that the new entity is to be fully capitalized by its Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming entity so as to receive ‘full financial support and backing.’

Read a statement from Allen…

“With the launch of Hard Rock Digital, we are broadening our digital business to enhance consumer experiences and offerings across our interactive gaming and sportsbook offerings. Hard Rock Digital also intends to pursue strategic branding and distribution opportunities both within the United States and globally. In the United States alone, the potential future market size is estimated at $7 billion for sportsbetting and $14 billion for online gaming.”

Expanding entertainment:

For his part and Goldstein used the press release to proclaim that he is ‘honored to join forces with Hard Rock International on this new venture’ and now looks forward to helping the operator continue ‘its ongoing commitment to innovation and the diversification of its portfolio in high-growth markets’ via the launch of Hard Rock Digital.

Goldstein’s statement read…

“Hard Rock International is consistently at the forefront of innovation and vision in the gaming industry and ‘Hard Rock’ gaming, hospitality and entertainment venues are iconic worldwide. We look forward to providing an authentic and digital experience for Hard Rock International’s global fan base within a comprehensive and omni-channel offering.”