Gateway Casinos & Entertainment to Build a Premier Casino and Entertainment Property - The Grand Villa Edmonton -

Up to 200 new jobs and $32 million construction investment for Edmonton's economy

EDMONTON, April 13, 2015 /CNW/ - Gateway Casinos & Entertainment (Gateway) announced today that it will build a new premier, upscale casino and entertainment property in the Edmonton Arena District.  The project will bring up to 200 new permanent jobs and a $32 million investment to the Edmonton economy. In addition to this long-term investment, the project will result in 450 person-years of construction employment.

Gateway will build the Grand Villa Edmonton Casino, Gateway's most premium brand, featuring a spectacular gaming floor with exciting entertainment and an array of dining and culinary options to suit any taste including their signature restaurant – Match Eatery and Public House.

"The EAD is literally changing the landscape in Edmonton and we're thrilled to be a part of such a dynamic, world class development," said Tony Santo, CEO of Gateway Casinos & Entertainment. "The Grand Villa Edmonton will deliver a gaming and entertainment experience unlike anything in Edmonton – first class gaming, dining and entertainment all in the centre of the action in the EAD."

With over 60,000 square feet of entertainment space, the Grand Villa Edmonton will be an exceptional addition to EAD. Construction is to begin in fall 2015 with a grand opening scheduled for summer 2016.

"Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited is an established gaming and entertainment operator in Western Canada," said Daryl Katz, Chairman of Katz Group.  "We believe this new, full-service, upscale casino will be a valuable and exciting addition to the Edmonton Arena District and will provide patrons a first class experience."

Today's announcement at the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce was attended by a number of local leaders and politicians including Simon O'Byrne (Past Chair, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce), Councillor Scott McKeen (Ward 6 – City of Edmonton), Glen Scott (Senior VP, Katz Group), and Susan Green (Acting Chairman, AGLC).

"At the AGLC we strive each day to create progressive, socially responsible gaming experiences for Albertans," said Niaz Nejad, Vice President Lottery and Gaming Services, AGLC. "The construction of a first class gaming facility in the Edmonton arena district will provide Albertans with a dynamic and modern entertainment option."

Gateway currently owns and operates the Baccarat Casino, which will close with the opening of the Grand Villa Edmonton.  The 200 employees of the Baccarat will move to the new location.  When fully staffed, the Grand Villa Edmonton will have approximately 400 employees.  Gateway will hold job fairs in early 2016 to help fill the new positions in advance of the Grand Villa's Grand Opening in summer 2016.

About Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited

Gateway Casinos & Entertainment is one of Canada's premier gaming and entertainment operators. Gateway Casinos & Entertainment strives to bring together the best in gaming, entertainment and dining to ensure a memorable experience for all guests. Through 12 properties, over 3,000 employees, 180 tables and over 5,000 slots machines, 27 restaurants and 1000 hotel rooms Gateway Casinos & Entertainment does not only bring the highest quality entertainment to visitors - but also provides well-paying jobs while generating important revenues for governments and communities. With 20 successful years of Canadian gaming experience, Gateway Casinos & Entertainment is excited to build on its past towards a bigger, bolder future. 

About the Edmonton Arena District

The Edmonton Arena District (EAD) will be Canada's largest mixed-used sports and entertainment development – a dynamic, urban destination that will help transform and revitalize downtown Edmonton into a world-class destination where Edmontonians and visitors will come to live, work, and play. Anchored by a vibrant public plaza and Rogers Place arena, the EAD will feature a four-star Delta hotel, two office towers, condominiums, rental apartments, a premium Cineplex movie complex and a first-class casino. In addition, the EAD will offer a variety of retail options, boutique shops, restaurants and nightlife, as well as a grocery store and Rexall pharmacy. Under development by a joint venture between Katz Group and WAM Development Group, the EAD will become a place for all to gather, create, and share memories that is true to Edmonton's character and unlike anything in North America.

SOURCE Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited

Media Contact: Tanya Gabara, 604-539-4435, [email protected]