New lottery ticket dispenser patented
The following, edited for length, is a news release issued by Pollard Banknote Limited Partnership. The Winnipeg-based company announced last month that it’s creating 60 new jobs at a new Sault Ste. Marie finishing facility. The new plant will handle all lottery tickets sold in Canada by Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. ************************* Pollard Banknote awarded U.S. patent for disposable dispensing container WINNIPEG, Oct. 26 - Pollard Banknote Limited Partnership (”Pollard Banknote”) has been granted a U.S. patent for inventing a disposable lottery ticket dispenser intended to maximize interest in specific tickets sold to the public in a retail setting. This innovative cardboard dispenser accommodates fan-folded lottery tickets and presents a distinct advantage over its currently available counterparts. Unlike generic dispensers designed to accept a variety of similar-sized tickets, this device is unique in its ability to be customized to promote a single game, whatever its dimensions. “We felt that an excellent opportunity existed at retail for a ticket dispenser capable of handling any ticket size while serving as an effective promotional vehicle at the same time,” said Don Sawatzky, vice president, sales & marketing (U.S.). “By offering our clients a dispenser aimed at generating interest in a specific game - whether it’s a new offering, a premium product, or an uncommonly sized ticket - we’re able to capitalize on a game’s potential where it counts most: right at the point of sale.” The dedicated dispenser features exterior graphics identical to those found on the ticket itself, a powerful advertising avenue closed to conventional manual dispensers due to the necessity that they house a variety of different games throughout their lifespan. “We’re always looking for ways to boost retailer revenues to benefit both the lottery and participating business owners,” said Sawatzky. “By presenting lotteries and retailers with a new way to focus attention on selected games, we’ve opened yet another door in a very proactive and productive way.” The United States Patent and Trademark Office issued U.S. Patent No. 7,021,493 for the device, which remains in effect until 2024. The dispenser is also under patent protection in Canada until 2023, following the issuance by the Canadian Intellectual Property Office of Patent No. 2,424,209.