Sale of Sam’s Town Casino Approved: to be Named Bally’s Shreveport North
In a major consolidation of the northwest Louisiana gaming market, the Louisiana Gaming Control Board on Thursday approved unanimously, the purchase of Sam's Town Hotel and Casino in Shreveport, owned by Boyd Gaming Corporation, to Bally's Corporation.
Bally's Expands Footprint Along the Red River
Because Bally's already owns and operates Bally's Shreveport Casino & Hotel directly adjacent to Sam's Town along the west bank of the Red River, this transaction marks the first time two neighboring riverboat gaming properties in this market will come under unified ownership.
Bally's reported they operate around 20 properties across 20 states, have around 12,000 employees, approximately 18,000 gaming machines, and 4000 hotel rooms. The acquistition of the Shreveport Sam's Town property encompasses a 29,000 square-foot casino floor featuring approximately 750 slot machines and 14 table games.
The property also includes a 514 room hotel tower that features convention and meeting spaces, multiple restaurants, and a live entertainment venue.
Job Security and Rebranding: What Changes Next?
When asked directly by board member Dr. Ronald J. Shores about whether or not there would be a "reduction in the number of employees or people employed in the gaming industry that you hire," Bally's spokesperson confirmed, "No, no, there's no immediate reduction."
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The board voted unanimously on Thursday to approve the $30 million sale. The board also voted to approve the separate agenda item concerning the changing of the name from Sam's Town Hotel & Casino, to the new name, Bally's Shreveport North.
What was missing from the meeting was any discussion about specific plans Bally's has for the long-term future of the property. There has been speculation that both properties would be combined into one massive, land-based casino, eliminating both boats. But, at this point, that is purely speculation.
Looking Ahead: The Transition Period and Future Plans
There will be a 120 day transition period where Boyd Gaming will continue to operate the Sam's Town property until Bally's officially takes over with new chips, cards, table felts, and signage with the new Bally's Shreveport North branding.
You can watch the entire presentation by Bally's, and the board's response HERE.