The United Kingdom is set to introduce a series of liberalising measures aimed at enhancing the appeal of land-based gambling venues such as casinos, bingo halls, and arcades. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure these establishments remain competitive with the rapidly expanding online betting and gaming sector.

In a written statement to lawmakers on Thursday, Minister Stuart Andrew highlighted the necessity of updating “the outdated and overly restrictive regulations” that currently govern land-based gambling. The objective is to align these venues more closely with modern payment practices and consumer behaviors.

Changes to Apply to Debit Card Payments Ban

One of the key changes will be the removal of the ban on direct debit card payments for gaming machines. This adjustment acknowledges the significant increase in the use of non-cash payments and aims to simplify transactions for players. Alongside this, the government will introduce new player protection measures to ensure responsible gambling practices are maintained.

Additionally, the reforms will allow certain casinos to increase the number of gaming machines they offer. Bingo halls and arcades will also benefit, with permission to host a higher number of larger stake gaming machines. These changes are designed to make these venues more attractive to patrons by offering a greater variety of gaming options.

Updating Fee Structure for Gambling Premise Licenses

An important aspect of the reforms is the adjustment of the maximum cap on fees that authorities can charge for gambling premises licences. The cap will be increased by 15%, addressing a fee structure that has remained unchanged since 2007. This update is intended to provide local authorities with more resources to manage and regulate gambling establishments effectively.

In the government statement, it was emphasized that these measures aim to support the land-based gambling sector while modernizing current restrictions. “Together we believe these measures will support the land-based gambling sector and modernise the current outdated restrictions, as well as helping to protect young people and supporting licensing authorities,” the statement read.

These proposed changes follow a series of reforms introduced a year ago targeting the online gambling industry. Those reforms included new online stake limits and enhanced affordability checks to combat problem gambling. The government’s approach underscores a commitment to balance the growth of both online and land-based gambling sectors while ensuring robust player protections are in place.

Reforms to Attempt to Revitalize the Land-Based Sector

The modernization of regulations for physical gambling venues is seen as a necessary step to keep up with technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. By embracing these changes, the government hopes to revitalize the land-based gambling industry, making it more resilient and adaptable in a rapidly evolving landscape.

As the UK gambling sector continues to evolve, these liberalising measures are expected to provide a much-needed boost to traditional gambling venues. By addressing outdated regulations and enhancing the variety and convenience of gaming options, the government aims to foster a more vibrant and competitive environment for both operators and players.

Source: “UK to liberalise rules for gambling venues in light of online growth”. Reuters. May 16, 2024.

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Caesars Entertainment is ready to elevate its culinary offerings by introducing Tortazo, the acclaimed restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Rick Bayless, at two premier destinations within its portfolio. Harrah’s Joliet and Caesars Palace Las Vegas will soon feature the vibrant flavors and culinary excellence of Tortazo, helping them stand out amidst the harsh competition.

Tortazo Encapsulates the Essence of Mexican Cuisine

Inspired by the gracious hospitality and lively culture of Mexico City, Tortazo is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant that encapsulates the essence of Mexican cuisine, with a particular focus on the renowned Mexican sandwich – the Torta. Acclaimed for his culinary prowess, cookbook authorship, and restaurant management, Chef Rick Bayless will bring his culinary magic to both locations.

Tortazo’s menu celebrates bold and flavorful Mexican cuisine, showcasing diverse culinary delights, including mouthwatering tacos, quesadillas, and irresistibly sweet house-made churros. Drawing inspiration from Mexico’s rich culinary heritage, each dish at Tortazo is a testament to Chef Rick Bayless’ commitment to authenticity and culinary innovation.

The Tortazo location at Harrah’s Joliet should open its doors in the spring, offering a culinary haven for guests seeking an authentic Mexican dining experience. Following this, the Las Vegas location at Caesars Palace will welcome patrons in late summer, adding to the iconic entertainment hub’s rich tapestry of culinary offerings.

This Addition Will Elevate the Customer Experience

The collaboration between Caesars Entertainment and Chef Rick Bayless signifies a strategic move to enhance the culinary offerings across the Caesars brand. Anthony Carano, President and COO of Caesars Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, praising Tortazo as the perfect addition to the operator’s roster of culinary superstars.

This newest partnership should also significantly benefit Tortazo, improving the restaurant’s reach and exposure. Associating with a high-profile operator like Caesars should guarantee the restaurants will never be short on visitors hungry to experience the two venues’ complete offerings. Chef Bayless was thrilled regarding this partnership, highlighting Tortazo and Caesars’ shared values.

“The Caesars brand is synonymous with great hospitality, something that inspired the creation of Tortazo, so it feels like the perfect fit.”

Chef Rick Bayless

As Caesars Entertainment retains its priority on delivering exceptional experiences to its guests, collaborating with Tortazo further solidifies its commitment to offering a diverse and unparalleled range of dining options. More details about both Tortazo locations will be unveiled in the coming months, promising an exciting culinary journey for visitors to Harrah’s Joliet and Caesars Palace Las Vegas.

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A decision by the Northern Territory government to double the number of gaming machines in two Alice Springs pubs is facing opposition from local anti-pokies campaigners.

These anti-gambling campaigners believe the increase in poker machines could heighten social issues in the area.

However, NT Executive Director of Liquor Racing and Gaming Philip Timney has approved the expansion of pokies from 10 to 20 at both the Todd Tavern and Gap View Hotel.

ALSO READ: Australian online casinos

Timney’s decision will be reviewed in the NT Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Jonathan Pilbrow of the No Pokies in Mparntwe group, representing the locals against the move, said the Alice Spring community does not need any more slots games.

“For decades we’ve known pokie machines are the riskiest form of gambling,” he said.

Pilbrow said the extra poker machines had the potential to harm the indigenous population in the area.

“We’re already grappling with deep-running social problems in town that we believe are being exacerbated by the gaming industry,” he said.

While Iris Capital, owning both pubs, remained silent on the issue, Timney’s past decisions indicate he didn’t foresee the additional machines increasing problem gambling risks in Alice Springs.

He acknowledged, however, the well-documented harms associated with gaming machines. The challenge expects to highlight the inadequacy of Timney’s assessment of the community impact of the increased pokies.

Australia, despite having a huge gambling industry defined by sports betting, retail casinos and lotto games, is yet to legalise online casinos or online pokies, with millions of Australian dollars being spent at gambling sites based overseas yearly.

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Apart from using good old police work, the state’s authorities have been concerned with certain age groups being more susceptible to falling victim to such illegitimate gambling operations.

This is why the AARP Florida and Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) issued a joint statement on Monday trying another approach – raising awareness about such unlicensed casinos that operate illegally.

AARP Florida and Gaming Commission Warn about Illegal Casinos

These businesses have been very agile and quick, established overnight and oftentimes gone or shut down by the time authorities catch wind of events. The venues advertise their products as “arcades” but they house slot machines inside.

This is at odds with state laws that allow slot machines exclusively on the premises of tribal casinos for the time being. The AARP has cautioned that these venues are purposefully targeting the ageing adult population, as they are less likely to object or even understand that they are being the victims of a scam.

“These illicit gaming centers may appear innocuous at first glance, but they are breaking state law, as are operators and customers of these illegal establishments,” the regulator and the AARP have stated in a joint press release.

The release has also outlined some of the reasons why people should try and avoid these venues. For one, there is zero consumer protection at these so-called adult arcades, which means that there is no fair play and consumers may lose money or be scammed. The AARP has tried to also instruct consumers on what to look out for when in a facility that offers slots.

The Public Asked to Assist in Tackling These Businesses

For one, slot machines that aren’t on tribal land and their casinos are already illegal. Anything outside tribal land or Miami-Dade or Broward counties is illegal, and so is sports betting. Once again, the Florida Gaming Control Commission has urged caution and public awareness of the issue.

Authorities have relied on tips from citizens to ensure that they swoop in on such illegal venues and shut them down. However, to make sure that the process is efficient, the public is urged to alert the police or the commission itself. Meanwhile, the regulator has reaffirmed that it would pursue criminal charges against illegal gambling venues and their owners.  

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The Finance Undersecretary of the Philippines has announced that the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is expected to proceed with the sale of its self-operated casinos within the next two years.

This timeline was requested by PAGCOR’s chairman, Alejandro H. Tengco, to ensure proper consideration for any employees that might be affected by the move towards privatization.

Under PAGCOR’s watch, the Philippine government owns nine fully fledged Casino Filipino venues with 34 satellite casinos operating in malls and hotels.

The primary value of this privatization effort lies in the licenses held by PAGCOR, as the operator leases all of its casino properties.

While the idea of privatizing PAGCOR’s casinos has been discussed in the past, it appears that this time the organization is genuinely committed to the sale.

Additionally, PAGCOR aims to maximize the value of the casinos within the given timeline, as stated by the Finance Undersecretary.

Furthermore, the privatization effort aligns with the country’s broader objective of disposing of approximately PHP2 billion ($35.93m) worth of assets this year, representing a significant increase compared to the previous year.

Industry experts surmise that the flow of cash from the sale will help the country further regain its footing in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

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