With the online gambling market in France expected to soon open, Playtech took a step to ensure that it is ready.

According to Playtech's website ChiliPoker.com will cease using Playtech's platform through one of Playtech's licensees and instead, will now be a direct licensee thanks to a new agreement.

ChiliPoker is prominent in the French market and the deal will hopefully help Playtech gain a foothold when France's online gambling regulations go into effect in January of 2010.

"ChiliPoker is a key strategic licensee given its knowledge and presence in the French gaming market," Playtech said in a release.

"It has recently signed an agreement with 'Free,' the second largest internet service provider in France, to provide its gaming services and brands to its 12 million users."

"The growth of the brand has also been cemented by a three-year deal with World Poker Tour to set up televised events in Marrakech, and by its official sponsorship of the World Poker Congress in 2008."