Three Industry Giants Compete for Caesars Windsor Casino License

For the first time in its 30-year history, the license to run the slot machines and blackjack tables at Caesars Windsor is open for competition. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp (OLG) is keeping a tight lid on the selection process, but insiders reveal a three-way showdown between Caesars Entertainment Inc., Bally's Corp., and Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment.

Despite the secrecy surrounding the OLG's decision-making, speculation is running high in Windsor. The outcome, expected in the fall, will determine the future operator of the casino, and local leaders are rallying behind the incumbent, Caesars Entertainment Inc. The casino has played a pivotal role in providing jobs and driving tourism in Windsor.

Caesars Windsor's influence on the local economy extends beyond financial contributions. Situated in downtown Windsor, the casino has played a crucial role in redefining the city's identity, transforming it from an automobile hub into a thriving tourist destination. Despite challenges like smoking bans and the recent pandemic, Caesars has remained resilient.

The impact of Caesars on the local economy is substantial, with 4.4 million visitors injecting $669 million into the region in 2022. The OLG's decision will not only affect the casino's future but also reshape the competitive landscape of the regional gambling industry.

In April 2023, the OLG began the search for a new operator for Caesars Windsor Casino, as the current contract with Caesars Entertainment is set to expire in 2025. The OLG's Request for Pre-Qualification (RFPQ) invited experienced and reputable companies to submit initial bids, ensuring a qualified service provider is selected to maintain the casino's competitiveness and contribute to the local economy.