Administrative Court confirms concession award for Merkur in Lower Saxony
The Administrative Court of Hanover has confirmed the legality of the award of the casino concession to the Merkur Group. Merkur Spielbanken, based in neighbouring East Westphalia, emerged victorious from the award procedure carried out by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Finance.
The court dismissed the action of the previous concession holder, which had been defeated in the competition of concepts regarding safe and high-quality casino operation. This is an important decision for the future of the ten casino locations in the state of Lower Saxony.
“We welcome the decision of the Administrative Court, which provides clarity and confirms the transparent and structured award process from the beginning. Our concept is based on the highest standards in the areas of player protection, profitability and sustainable location development,” explains David Schnabel, CEO of the Merkur Group’s casinos. “From our point of view, there was no doubt at any time about the legal conformity and transparency of the procedure of the Ministry of Finance. We are pleased that the court has confirmed this.”
With the concession now fixed, Merkur Spielbanken will quickly implement its plans for the further development of the locations in Lower Saxony. This includes the creation of additional jobs and a takeover offer for all existing employees. “Our goal is to optimize the locations and create long-term career prospects for the employees,” David Schnabel continues. “Our personnel concept achieved 100 percent of the possible points in the award procedure because we guarantee security for the entire existing workforce and will also create new jobs. Worries among the casino staff were unfounded at all times, even if the opposite impression was given from other sides.”
Merkur Spielbanken will now coordinate the next steps with the responsible authorities in order to make the transition professional and to successfully continue gaming operations in Lower Saxony.
