As Video Gambling Looms In Pennsylvania Universal Gaming Group Launches Division And Appoints Lou Larson

Lou Larson

UGGPA has hired amusement industry veteran Lou Larson as director of gaming for the western Pennsylvania marketplace. Larson has 38 years' experience in management and sales in coin machine distribution. UGG said Larson's appointment signifies its commitment to the emerging VGT market in Pennsylvania.

"The progression of establishing a presence in the Pennsylvania marketplace starts with having quality people that represent your firm," said UGG chief operating officer Rob Breslow. "Lou's reputation in the coin machine business is formidable and we are excited to have him on board at UGGPA."

Larson comes to UGG from Betson Enterprises, where he was vice-president and general manager of the distributorship's Pittsburgh office. He is an expert in gaming compliance, slot machine installation, operations and training. In 2004, when Pennsylvania legalized casino gaming, Larson obtained a license to sell the various types of slot machines authorized by the Pennsylvania Legislature.

Larson also serves on the board of directors of the Pennsylvania Amusement and Music Machine Association, and was a past-president of the group. He now chairs PAMMA's Video Gaming Committee. In 1996, PAMMA honored Larson as its Man of the Year. Advocating for legal, operator-based gaming is one of the association's key functions.

As for operator-run VGTs in Pennsylvania, Larson says it's inevitable. "Video gaming terminals will be a reality very soon," he predicted. "We have collectively made major strides lobbying the state Legislature to authorize video gaming and the hard work is finally paying off for our industry."

Larson's appointment as Universal Gaming Group PA's director goes into effect on Jan. 1. His duties include new business development and partnership building with operators entering the gaming sector. Larson can be reached at (412) 498-8713 or llarson@uggpa.com.