Penn National Gaming said Tuesday it would close it Resorts Casino in Tunica, Mississippi on June 30, the latest property to close in the market that has been hurt by new competition.
Penn National acquired the operations of Resorts Casino Tunica and Bally’s Casino Tunica (subsequently renamed 1st Jackpot) in March 2017. The company leases the two casinos from Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc.
Penn National operates Hollywood Casino Tunica, which is adjacent to Resorts Casino.
In January, Caesars Entertainment closed the Tunica Roadhouse Casino. The market will be down to six casinos in after June.
Penn National Senior Vice President of Regional Operations Al Britton knew Resorts Casino was in significant need of capital improvements when the company acquired the facility.
“While we did everything in our control to keep the property profitable over the last two years, increased competition from recent gaming expansion in Arkansas continues to drive the property’s business volumes lower,” Britton said. “After exploring all viable alternatives, we are left with the difficult decision to close the business.
Britton said the company will seek opportunities for property’s nearly 200 employees at the company’s other two Tunica casinos, other area resorts, or at one of Penn’s other 39 properties across the country.
“I want to emphasize that despite this decision, Penn National remains committed to the Tunica market and continues to focus on the ongoing successful operations at our two remaining Tunica properties,” Britton said.
