Milton Keynes casino to reopen under Merkur brand as UK expansion continues

Merkur Casino UK has acquired The Casino MK in Milton Keynes, its second casino property in the United Kingdom, and confirmed plans to reopen the venue in the coming months with new employment opportunities.

The casino, located in the Xscape leisure complex at Marlborough Gate, was previously operated by Aspers and closed on April 7 after the company entered administration. Merkur said it will begin recruiting both new and former employees as part of the reopening process.

Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer for Merkur Casino UK, said: “We are pleased to have the opportunity to bring The Casino MK into the MERKUR family. This venue has played a significant role in the local leisure and entertainment market.

"Our aim is to get the casino open again as quickly and smoothly as possible, and we are, of course, particularly proud to be bringing more jobs to Milton Keynes, which is also the home of our headquarters.”

The move also follows the opening of Merkur’s first UK casino in Aberdeen in 2023. The company said that the venue has shown strong demand for its mix of table games, slot machines, and hospitality services.

The Milton Keynes casino will feature table games such as blackjack, poker, and roulette, along with an expanded range of slot machines. Merkur confirmed that upgrades will be introduced to bring the property in line with its brand standards.

“We see real potential for casino growth across the UK,” Schertle added. “Our experience in Aberdeen has shown there is a strong appetite for the kind of experience we deliver – a blend of premium gaming, hospitality, and entertainment. We look forward to bringing that same approach to Milton Keynes.”

The acquisition also follows developments at Merkur’s parent company, Merkur Group. In May 2025, the group was granted a license by the Nevada Gaming Commission, clearing its return to the US market after more than two decades. The approval also supported its pending acquisition of Las Vegas-based supplier Gaming Arts, which is licensed in more than 155 jurisdictions.