

Merkur Casino has confirmed it will open a new land-based establishment in Milton Keynes at the Xscape Centre. The new casino is set to be launched to the public on November 1, marking a serious statement of intent on the company’s part to take a bigger chunk out of the UK’s vibrant leisure sector.
Milton Keynes was chosen as the designated location for the new flagship venue due to its central position. Moreover, the company has tangible connections to the town, given that their UK head office is based there.
While the construction costs for the new casino were undisclosed, the size and scale of it indicates that it was no small undertaking. Yes, the venue will span 22,000 square feet, complete with 72 slot machines, 26 electronic roulette terminals, and 15 live gaming tables.
The venue also features a bar and event space, covering 4,700 square feet. This will host live performances, and it will also be made available for community events and private functions.
Merkur has also announced its plans for the grand opening, which will see hundreds of guests attend, including local dignitaries, influencers, and celebrities. An official event will take place which will include a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, live entertainment, and a £10,000 cash prize draw.
The new venue could represent a huge boon for Milton Keynes. By establishing a new casino site, Merkur, it is thought, will create 100 new jobs across gaming, hospitality, and management, giving the town an economic boost.
Local suppliers and contractors were involved in the construction of the site. As part of the company’s policy, Merkur tries to collaborate with regional partners wherever possible.
Mark Schertle, Merkur Casino’s Chief Operating Officer, was keen to stress the importance of the venue. He noted how the new site could end up raising the bar for regional entertainment.
He said: “We wanted to create something that genuinely stands out and a venue that feels exciting and welcoming, where guests can enjoy premium gaming, live entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere.
“Our goal is to offer an experience that sets a new standard for regional entertainment. We’re proud to create a venue that enhances Milton Keynes’ already vibrant nightlife and offers something new for the city’s leisure scene.”
Over the past few months, Merkur has been gathering more momentum in the UK, and it has expanded its footprint more generally in the gaming market. In September, Merkur finalised its acquisition of Gaming Arts, as the company sought to re-establish more of a foothold in the USA.
Only last week, Merkur announced that it bought Oasis Retail Services for an undisclosed amount to set up some roots in Northern Ireland for the first time. Oasis Retail Services is a big player, operating 16 venues and several hundred machines in pubs and betting shops.
Merkur, which employs over 15,000 people worldwide, has never concealed its ambitions to grow further. The Milton Keynes announcement represents another significant milestone in the company’s journey, and only time will tell as to how the new venue goes down with the customers that pass through its doors.

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