5 Things Every Illinois Bar Owner Should Know Before Adding Video Gaming Terminals

Adding video gaming to your establishment is one of the most straightforward revenue decisions you can make in Illinois — but there are a few things worth knowing before you sign on the dotted line with any operator.

1. You Don't Pay for the Machines

This surprises a lot of first-time operators. The licensed video gaming operator — not you — purchases, installs, and maintains the terminals. Your investment is essentially zero. The operator recoups their equipment cost from their share of the NTI. If any operator is asking you to purchase terminals upfront, walk away.

2. Your Location Matters More Than You Think

Illinois caps each establishment at five terminals. The placement of those five machines inside your space significantly impacts how much they earn. Terminals tucked in a dark corner near the bathrooms will underperform compared to machines positioned near the bar with good lighting and comfortable seating. A good operator will advise you on placement — a great one will insist on it.

3. Read the Revenue Split Carefully

Establishments are entitled to 29% of NTI by state law. But the split between operator and establishment of the remaining share (after state and municipality taxes) varies by contract. Some operators offer a more favorable establishment split than others. Make sure you understand exactly what percentage you're receiving and how it's calculated before you sign.

4. Response Time Is Everything

A terminal that's offline isn't earning anyone money. Ask any prospective operator what their average response time is for machine issues. A 24–48 hour window to get a technician on-site is too slow. Rise2Shine Gaming provides same-day or next-day response for technical issues — because every hour a machine is down is revenue neither of us is seeing.

5. You Can Switch Operators

Your contract with a gaming operator will have a term and exit provisions. If you're unhappy with your current operator — poor maintenance, slow response times, low earnings, lack of transparency — you can transition to a new operator when your contract allows. Don't feel locked in forever. Competition among operators benefits establishments.

The Right Partner Makes the Difference

Rise2Shine Gaming works with Illinois establishments to maximize gaming revenue from day one. From optimal machine placement to monthly performance reviews, we treat your location like a business partnership, not just another address on a route.

Ready to get started? Give us a call and we'll walk you through the full process with no pressure and no obligation.