The regulatory approval brings Bally’s Shreveport Casino & Hotel, The Queen Baton Rouge and the Belle of Baton Rouge casinos under the same umbrella in the state.
The broader deal between Bally’s and The Queen Casino & Entertainment brings a total of four additional casinos across three states under the former’s control. Before the agreement, The Queen had more than 900 employees, 2,400 slot machines, 50 table games and 150 hotel rooms in its portfolio.
Standard General, the majority owner of The Queen Casino & Entertainment, struck a $4.6bn takeover deal for Bally’s last year, with the transaction approved by the latter’s shareholders in November.
Casino opening
In other news in Louisiana, the Cordish Companies’ Live! Casino and Hotel Louisiana will open to the public at 8pm next Thursday, 13 February.
The opening of the $270m venue is contingent on final approval from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board – thought to be a formality.
John J. Chaszar, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, said that it would be “an unforgettable night as we open our doors for the first time to present the most spectacular gaming and entertainment facility the four-state region has ever experienced”.
He added: “Our team members will be ready to welcome our guests like family, and our slots and tables will be ready for winners, so we hope everyone will come join in on the celebration.”
