Poker Writer
Grosvenor is considering closing one of its U.K. properties due to significant financial losses. The Grosvenor Casino Reading Central could close down after incurring financial losses of half a million pounds, with further losses projected for next year.
The casino’s employees received a letter stating that significant and sustained financial challenges were identified during a detailed review of the casino. Revenue declined by 20% over the course of the past year, while operating costs also made a small 2% increase.
The letter to the employees read:
These financial challenges have resulted in a position where continued operation of the venue may no longer be commercially sustainable.
We can confirm that we have taken the difficult decision to begin a consultation process to explore options for the long-term sustainability of Grosvenor Casino Reading Central.
The decision to permanently close has not been finalized yet, as the letter said that the long-term health of Grosvenor Casino Reading Central will be closely monitored before the final decision. The employees were urged to continue working professionally despite the uncertain future.
It is one of two casinos in the Reading area, an outer suburb of western London. The other casino in the area, Grosvenor Casino Reading South, has had no reports of financial issues.
Keep Reading
UK Poker in Reading
The Grosvenor UK Poker Tour (GUKPT) runs throughout the country all year long at Grosvenor Casinos. The tour has multiple stops in London, as well as in the nearby northern suburb Luton.
The Reading property, however, has not hosted any stops. That’s despite the casino apparently having a dedicated poker room. However, there are currently no cash games or tournaments listed on Poker Atlas for the casino. It’s difficult to say whether the room is still active.
The more financially secure Reading casino, Grosvenor Casino Reading South, hosted the 888Poker UKPL Reading Main Event in July.
