Relief for UK Gambling Industry as Casinos and Betting Shops Re-open

It is a great time in the casino industry with news of the relaxation of some restrictions resulting in the reopening of casinos.    

The most recent adjustments of the pandemic lockdown restrictions have led to over 100 casinos across England, Scotland, and Wales being able to re-open.    

Excitement is running high with these establishments getting to open their doors for the first time this year.    

 No Blue Monday   

Over 100 casinos across the UK will get to reopen and welcome players back into their establishments very soon.    

All customers will still need to comply with the anti-Covid measures set in place at every venue. This includes using hand sanitiser, wearing face masks, and adhering to social distancing rules. 

For Glasgow-based casinos, there is no change as First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, continues to keep the city under Level 3 restrictions.    

As for casinos in Scotland, the government states that establishments must close by 10:30 pm and they may not sell any alcohol. 

Other restrictions that are lifting include the ban on showing live sport on TVs within betting shops in England. Scottish betting shops will be able to allow access to gaming machines for the first time since their re-opening on the 26th of April 2021. 

According to the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) chief executive, Michael Dugher, these moves are a fantastic boost for the industry. He commented on the recent changes saying: 

“Casinos are a major contributor to the UK economy, something which will be vital in the months ahead as the Government tries to repair the damage done to the nation's finances by Covid-19.” 

Considering that the regulated betting and gaming industry contributes around £7.7 billion in gross value to the economy, these changes haven’t come a moment too soon. 

 Grosvenor Reopening 52 Branches   

In light of the ease in restrictions, Grosvenor Casinos is opening all 52 of its venues. The reopening took place on Monday, the 17th of May 2021 with strict health and safety measures in place for both visitors and staff. 

Company managing director, Jonathon Swaine, revealed that it has been a challenging time for all their team members and they are looking forward to reuniting and getting back to doing what they love most. 

According to Swaine, Grosvenor cannot wait to focus on creating a unique atmosphere for guests, where they can have fun playing their favourite casino games while enjoying quality time together.    

Grosvenor Casinos will have hand sanitiser machines available upon arrival and contactless payment will be encouraged. Furthermore, there will be a restriction on the number of players able to play a specific game at the same time. There are safety shields at till points for the protection of both the staff and customers and face masks are a requirement. 

Grosvenor Casino Blackpool, in particular, will be keeping a register of all incoming guests, and food and drinks orders can be made from your table or gaming machine. You can do this via the online app or using the valet service. 

With all of these safety measures in place, the reopening of the casino and betting industry in the UK is sure to be a resounding success.