Caesars Entertainment and SL Green Realty Corp have announced a new Caesars Rewards partnership for local merchants in greater New York City as a part of their pursuit of a gaming license in Times Square.
If Caesars Palace Times Square in Manhattan is selected among the licensees of New York City's casino race, Caesars Rewards members will be able to use their Rewards Gift Card Network, including participating hotels, restaurants, retailers, comedy clubs, entertainment venues and more across New York.
As part of Caesars and SL Green’s joint bid with Roc Nation to bring casino gaming to Times Square, the companies said they “are committed to supporting local businesses.”
Caesars and SL Green have begun signing up new merchants in Times Square and greater New York to join the Coalition for A Better Times Square. Participating merchants’ involvement in Caesars Rewards would be effective upon SL Green and Caesars’ procurement of a New York State gaming license.
As part of the program, Caesars Rewards members will be able to use Reward Credits for gift cards valid at participating New York businesses, allowing Caesars to inject millions of new dollars into the local economy.
Caesars Rewards members would also be able to earn credits when using their Caesars Rewards credit card at participating businesses.
Tom Reeg.
Tom Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, said: “Caesars Rewards is the largest and most successful gaming loyalty program in the world, and it is a natural fit to bring it to a city like New York.”
“We know from experience that investing in cities and neighborhoods benefits everyone involved. By expanding our powerful Rewards program in New York, we can better ensure that our work in Times Square creates good jobs and allows small businesses to grow and thrive.”
Marc Holliday, CEO of SL Green, said: “Our vision is to build a gaming and entertainment destination that fits into the fabric of New York. Guests at Caesars Palace Times Square might game at our tables, but they are going to eat at area restaurants, stay in neighborhood hotels, see Broadway shows and shop at stores in Times Square and across the city.”
Marc Holliday.
“By expanding the Caesars Rewards program in New York City, we can formalize that relationship with local businesses and demonstrate our deep commitment to New York’s economic future,” he added.
Jeff Garcia, President NYS Latino Restaurant Bar & Lounge Association and owner of Mon Amour Coffee and Wine Bar in The Bronx, stated: “As a small and minority-owned business owner and a New York State Latino Restaurant and Bar Association member, we are excited to join this coalition as this partnership will provide economic opportunity by attracting visitors and therefore future customers for our members in all five boroughs.”
Caesars Rewards has more than 60 million members, and is one of the largest loyalty programs in the gaming industry. Members can earn and redeem credits across the network for the experiences they value most.
Caesars Rewards members also have access to exclusive benefits and member rates at all Caesars Rewards destinations, invitation-only events, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences thanks to an extensive collection of sports, entertainment, celebrity chef, and travel partnerships.
Caesars, SL Green, and Roc Nation are jointly pursuing a license to convert existing office space at 1515 Broadway and create Caesars Palace Times Square. The venue would include 250,000 square feet of gaming and a 950-room hotel. Caesars Palace Times Square will be 100% privately funded.