France-Based Casinos Set To Open December 15
Published December 3, 2020 by Sol FH
Land-based casinos in France get approval to open their doors on December 15.
French casino players and operators got some good news earlier this week as the government approved the reopening of its land-based casinos on December 15. The news comes amidst fears of a second wave spread through Europe and many countries report increased numbers. The news was made by Casinos de France, albeit casinos must follow government guidelines to protect their customers, but this will surely breathe new life into the struggling economy.
France was called into its second lockdown back on the 30th of October, intended to run until the 1st of December. All casinos, betting shops, and bingo halls have remained closed. Only essential shops were okayed to be open with strict guidelines in place.
The decision to reopen gambling establishments was made for the wellbeing of French citizens, and, to boost the struggling economy.
Leading the way on new health protocols, the gaming industry was one of the first industries to abide by the rules. Face coverings, physical barriers, and increased sterilization stations were found in virtually all gambling establishments, but that didn't stop the second lockdown.
Now, Casinos in France will need to take it a step further by limiting the capacity of players at the same time, mandatory registration of patrons, and other guidelines.
France's casinos will need to join the national contact tracing app, "TousAntiCovid," and even start to take all casino players' temperatures at the front doors.
During the lockdown, France reported an increase in illegal gambling operations that do not abide by new health guidelines and have been seen as potential super-spreaders. The French land-based casino industry employs 60,000 direct and indirect jobs. The total money generated by the industry is €1.4bn per year in taxes, including €400m for local communities.
This step is in the direction of the new normal that we will all have to get used to, but it beats sitting at home.
