Universal Gem

04/30/2026

40 YEARS?! Now that’s something to celebrate 🎉 Stacy's Cafe

Our Account Manager Carmella DiZeo recently joined one of our amazing partners to celebrate their 40th Anniversary in business—and we couldn’t be more proud to be part of their story.

We’ve been partnered together for over 10 years, and moments like this remind us that it’s about so much more than just business. It’s about showing up, celebrating the wins (big and small), and building real relationships along the way.

Huge congratulations on 40 incredible years 👏 and thank you for letting us be part of the journey. We’re so grateful for this partnership and excited for what’s ahead!

01/29/2026

Chicago has legalized VGTs for Chicago bars and restaurants.This means a massive revenue opportunity for those who get in the game now.The smart move?Start planning before everyone else does.Don't miss this golden opportunity to add significant revenue to your Chicago bar or restaurant. Here's how to prepare!

The Chicago City Council has approved an alternate 2026 budget plan that, among other things, legalizes Video Gaming Terminals (VGTs, often called ‘video slots’ or simply ‘slot machines’) in Chicago bars and restaurants for those Wards that choose to opt in.

10/31/2025

🎃 These pumpkins hit the jack-o-pot!
We couldn’t resist carving out a little slot machine spirit with our new logo this Halloween. 🍂💸

10/08/2025

Some important new regulations for our partner locations regarding video gaming advertising. Read our latest blog post to learn what they are, and how to stay compliant and in good standing with the IGB. As always, please reach out to us with any questions you might have! https://ugaminggroup.com/new-illinois-video-gaming-advertising-rules-announced

On August 15, Governor Pritzker signed several bills into law, including HB 1505, which updates parts of the Illinois Video Gaming Act. Here’s what matters most for operators and establishments

10/03/2025

We are happy to announce that Universal Gaming Group has merged with GEM Gaming to become Universal Gem! These two great companies have come together to provide our partners with even better support, more impactful marketing, more locations and the industry's best service. Read more on our blog about the great benefits Universal Gem brings to our partners and their customers. And a big thank you to all of our partners for helping us achieve this big milestone! We're grateful to be able to grow together with you.
https://ugaminggroup.com/universal-gem/

07/23/2025

Have an Illinois small businesses? Looking to increase revenue? VGTs offer a great opportunity to add revenue to all kinds of small businesses. Small footprint, added income and a good way to increase foot traffic and build loyalty to your business. Read about what kinds of small businesses are perfect for VGTs and how they can help your business grow.

For Illinois small business owners who are constantly looking for ways to increase revenue and grow customer engagement, video gaming terminals (VGTs) have proven to be a winner.

06/23/2025

Learn how to drive foot traffic, increase sales and raise awareness for your VGT business with social media. It's not just for socializing. Social media can have a big impact on the profitability of your business.

For video gaming terminal (VGT) businesses and the bars or restaurants that host them, a strong social media presence can drive foot traffic, build loyalty, and keep your establishment top of mind in a crowded entertainment landscape. It all adds up to added revenue.

06/05/2025

Looking to obtain your Illinois liquor license? You'll need one if you want to host a gaming business at your establishment. Read our comprehensive guide for everything you need to know about getting an Illinois liquor license. Need help? Contact us and we can answer any questions you might have. We'll even help you get everything in order and ready to apply. Plus, we can get you all the gear you need to keep your patrons happy--pool tables, dart boards, TouchTunes, video slots, and more.

Table of Contents I. Introduction to Illinois Liquor Licenses Understanding the importance of obtaining a liquor license is crucial for any business in Illinois’ vibrant and ever-growing hospitality industry, particularly for Illinois VGT or slot businesses. In fact, the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB...

05/13/2025

April's IGB update has some very good news for gaming businesses owners and entrepreneurs looking for a new business opportunity. Gaming is expanding fast! Check out the latest numbers and other updates in our monthly wrap-up.

The IGB’s April meeting kicked off with Administrator Marcus Fruchter announcing that Accel Entertainment’s Fairmount Park has become Illinois’ 17th operating casino and first racino.

05/08/2025

YAY! Welcome to our newest location!!