A casino in Evian-les-Bains, France, has been partially destroyed in a major fire. Three floors of the casino were damaged, including two restaurants and several offices.
The 20th-century dome, standing 25 meters high, was preserved. More than 120 firefighters were mobilised to extinguish the flames. No casualties were reported.
Josiane Lei, the Mayor of Evian-les-Bains, speaking to a local radio station, stated: "The entire west wing burned, as well as the roof. But they managed to save the dome, which is important to us."
Staff and customers were evacuated immediately at the first sign of smoke. The local authorities stated that insulation work in an adjacent pub probably started the fire, which spread fast due to strong winds.
Meanwhile, developments in the land-based gambling sector continue elsewhere in France.
Saumur, located in the Maine-et-Loire region, has recently welcomed its first casino. The casino is managed by the Joa group, spans more than 2,000 m² and will open with 125 slot machines. It is expected to generate more than €1.5m ($1.7m) annually for the town.
Meanwhile, in Paris, Partouche's opening of a prestigious new gaming club is anticipated in May. The club will be situated on Avenue de la Grande Armée near the Arc de Triomphe.
The club will cover nearly 5,000 m² across four levels, an unprecedented scale for the city. It will feature 100 tables: 70 for poker and 30 for other table games. The focus is on poker as the main offering, while still providing a broad selection to appeal to an international audience.
The French Constitutional Council recently confirmed the permanent status of Parisian gaming clubs after a nine-year wait
