Gateway Casino Sault Ste. Marie has announced it is bringing back table games after nearly a two-year hiatus.
Gateway Casinos & Entertainment announced last week that table games would make an official comeback at its Sault Ste. Marie venue. This would mark the first time since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020 that local gamblers will be able to enjoy live games. According to the plans, six tables will be returned to service on the gaming floor.
The Sault Ste. Marie casino is operated by Gateway Casinos & Entertainment on behalf of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. According to previous health protocols, the casino had to keep table games discontinued after reopening in 2021. This was a precautionary step to limit the potential spread of the virus and ensure the safety of both guests and staff.
Last Stage of Reopening
Last week, Gateway Casinos & Entertainment stated that table games would make a comeback at the Sault Ste. Marie casino. Robert Mitchell, director of communications and public affairs, noted that six tables would be recommissioned on the casino’s gaming floor. These will comprise three blackjack, one roulette, and two poker tables.
Mitchell added that the casino is now in its final stages of reopening, allowing for the return of table games. He reassured that the move would not necessitate renovations or interfere with the current customer experience. Lifting the safety protocols has allowed the venue to restore its pre-pandemic operations.
The return of live games is also great news for workers since it will allow the casino to recall some employees back to work. Previously, with the onset of the pandemic, several staff members were laid off. The company also plans to bring in several hires. Mitchell commented that the casino’s patrons have been streaming back, and the business is recovering well.
Mitchell also noted that the hospitality industry generally remains cautiously optimistic about business bouncing back to its full capacity during the current summer season. Nonetheless, he admitted that the industry is recovering slowly and would take some time before reaching its normal state. He added that there still prevails a degree of uncertainty in the sector.
