With 800 square metres of floor space, including 340 square metres of gaming area, 85 certified newest-generation gaming machines and the creation of 20 new jobs, the key parameters of the new Merkur Spielbank in Halle are pretty impressive. This is the third in the joint venture’s chain of casinos. In total, Merkur Spielbanken Sachsen-Anhalt GmbH und Co. KG holds licences for six gaming venues in Saxony-Anhalt: two casinos featuring classic live table games and slot games and up to four further slot machine venues. The licence to operate casinos in Saxony-Anhalt was awarded on 1 December 2014 for 15 years. “The company has invested 16 million euros in the Merkur Spielbanken in Leuna-Günthersdorf and Magdeburg, creating 77 jobs and two trainee placements. Another 4.5 million is going into Halle,” commented Dieter Kuhlmann, Member of the Board of Management of Gaming Operations for the Gauselmann Group. In future, Halle will also offer the opportunity to undergo vocational training as a coin-op specialist.

The tried-and-tested formula for success is being continued in Halle. “The casino business in Germany is difficult – therefore, we are proud to be able to buck this trend,” said David Schnabel, Managing Director of Merkur Spielbanken Sachsen-Anhalt. He attributes this to a number of factors: “One decisive aspect for success is the staff at our venues, who are trained and qualified within the company and therefore – unlike in many other casinos – can be deployed universally in all areas of the casino.” In addition, Schnabel believes an attractive offering of games featuring the latest products and – at those locations where it is possible – popular live table games contribute to the popularity. The diverse event offering and modern bespoke casino systems such as ticketing system, payout terminals and cash handling at the gaming tables have revolutionised casino processes, making conventional cash counters a thing of the past. “The first-class atmosphere is another hallmark of the Merkur Spielbanken,” David Schnabel continues.

The exclusive interior of the Merkur Spielbanken has been designed by interior designer and architect Susanne Rasspe. “As both the exterior and the interior of the building are listed, all renovation work has to be closely coordinated with the conservation authorities,” she explained. As part of the plan, the historical character of the location, which used to house a casino but has been standing empty for some time, will be restored. The design concept she has come up with has been given the name Carmel. “It is called after the place of the same name in California and uses the colours and forms typical of the US west coast,” she noted. Consequently, gold is the main accent colour. The waves and sand of the west coast are reflected in the wall coverings. “On the whole, the casino is bathed in a cosy and warm atmosphere,” Susanne Rasspe explained.

Tobias Hellbach will be Head of the Merkur Spielbank in Halle. The 36-year-old has been part of the team since the opening of Merkur Spielbank Sachsen-Anhalt in Leuna-Günthersdorf more than three years ago and has extensive professional experience and industry knowledge. The topic of responsible gaming also comes high on the priority list. This is reflected by the international G4 Responsible Gaming Certificate, which has already been awarded to the casinos in Leuna-Günthersdorf and Magdeburg – as the first in Germany. The new casino in Halle will also undergo the certification process.

In line with the provisions of current casino legislation, the new Merkur Spielbank in Halle will be an entirely slot machine venue with a mixed offering of modern slot machines from a variety of manufacturers, including a wide range of state-of-the-art products made by Gauselmann. Highlights will include electronic roulette and electronic blackjack, gaming and amusement machines featuring 3D games and a variety of jackpot systems. The number of slot machines can be increased to 120. The new casino – as is the case in Leuna-Günthersdorf and Magdeburg – will not impose a strict dress code. “Guests are welcome to wear whatever they feel comfortable in – provided it is appropriate,” commented Tobias Hellbach.

For more information, visit: www.merkur-spielbanken.de