Ontario is by far Canada’s biggest province with over 14.5 million residents. However, this significant population hasn’t been able to enjoy Ontario slots in recent months.
Like many other destinations, Ontario has placed restrictions on its casinos with COVID-19 floating around. However, it will ease these restrictions in the coming weeks.
Slot Machines Going Live in September
According to the Toronto Sun, Canadian casino operators will be up and running in late September. For example, the Great Canadian Gaming Corp. will reopen 11 of its casinos in Ontario and 25 overall throughout Canada.
Among the major Ontario casinos that will open again include Great Blue Heron and Ajax. These gambling establishments will offer slot machines but not table games.
Additionally, the Great Canadian Gaming Corp must reduce the number of guests in their venues. The guest limits will definitely impact the company in a negative way.
“The reductions will be especially significant for our Ontario properties where, due to the 50-guest maximum restriction,” says CEO Rod Baker. “We expect no material financial benefit to the company from our 11 Ontario locations.”
Will Ontario Slots Be Back to Normal Soon?
Baker may not be happy about limiting the number of customers that come through his casinos’ doors. However, he’s glad that the province is at least started in the right direction.
“I’m pleased we are able to safely reopen our facilities in Ontario and New Brunswick, allowing us to bring back to work team members in each province,” Baker explains. “Once open, gaming revenues in each jurisdiction will be significantly reduced due to operating restrictions.”
It’s unclear exactly when the province will be back to normal with regard to casino gambling. As long as the coronavirus persists, then the restrictions may remain in place too.
That said, everything regarding Ontario slots and casino capacities depends upon COVID-19. When the virus dies down, the gambling scene will finally return to normal.