Operator News

US – Empire Resorts to shut Monticello’s VLTs to boost Resorts World Catskills

By Phil - 25 January 2019

New York casino operator Empire Resorts has confirmed it will shut down the gaming floor at its nearby Monticello Raceway to stop the venue cannibalising its newer US$1bn venue Resorts World Catskills.

The company will turn off 1,100 Video Lottery Terminals at Monticello on April 23 although the harness track, which first opened in 1958, will remain open.

Ryan Eller, CEO of Empire Resorts, said: “Empire Resorts continually evaluates our operations to ensure we are working efficiently, competing effectively and delivering the best experience and greatest value to our customers. To deliver on these promises, and in order to improve revenue performance at our nearby Resorts World Catskills property, we have made the decision to cease gaming operations on April 23, 2019 at Monticello Casino and Raceway and focus all gaming operations at Resorts World Catskills.”

The operator said the aim was to consolidate the two properties to increase revenue for the municipalities from the Resorts World casino.

Mr. Eller said: “Closing Monticello will allow us to not only increase operational efficiencies but enhance the casino experience at Resorts World Catskills for our guests with access to the industry’s newest slot products and more than 150 live table games. “We expect to continue harness racing operations at Monticello Raceway and look forward to welcoming all interested MCR employees to the Resorts World Catskills workforce.”

Resorts World Catskills, an 18-story luxury casino resort with more than 100,000 square feet of gaming floor, an all-suite hotel, and 10 bars and restaurants, which hasn’t performed as well as expected since its opening on February 8.
Monticello Casino has also suffered with betting down 50 per cent between April 2017 and April 2018.
Resorts World will still provide the same revenue to the state and local governments.