An executive with the new owner/operator of Point Edward's casino says it will take some time to roll out plans to realize the full potential of the gaming facility.
Carrie Kormos, Senior Vice-President of Marketing and Communications with Gateway Casinos and Entertainment Ltd., says the first job is completing the take-over transition by spring 2017.
She says they have a team that understands the dynamics of operating in a border market. "Making sure that we have really studied the market, and then filled out and put in the right mix of amenities , both gaming and non-gaming amenities," says Kormos. "An approach that Gateway has taken in western Canada and has been quite successful."
Kormos says the impact on employees is of paramount concern and they want to make sure they get the transition correct. "In the coming weeks you'll see our team up in the communities chatting with the employees, boots on the ground, as we get to work on the big task we have ahead of us."
Gateway has a 20-year agreement with Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG) to operate the waterfront casino as well as the slots at London's Western Fair, and at the raceways in Dresden, Clinton, Hanover and Woodstock.
All 325 jobs at the Point Edward Casino will be guaranteed for at least one year.
The BC-based company has also been named service provider for OLG's north bundle that includes ownership of the casinos in Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.