Canada: Loto-Québec to open fourth gaming hall in Saguenay in 18 months

Loto-Québec has approved plans for a new casino-style gaming hall in Saguenay, marking the provincial gaming operator’s fourth such facility as it expands its entertainment offerings across Quebec.

The venue, to be housed in the Delta Hotel and its conference centre about 120 miles north of Quebec City, is expected to open in about 18 months. Saguenay, a city of more than 152,000 residents, is known for its natural landscapes, national parks and the Saguenay Fjord, a waterway that connects to the St. Lawrence River.

Jean-François Bergeron, Loto-Québec’s president and chief executive officer, said the project reflects the region’s potential for tourism and economic development. “We’re proud to present this project in Saguenay, a vibrant region known for its warm welcome and development potential,” he said. “The Salon de jeux will generate positive spin-offs for the community, notably through job creation and tourist spending, as well as through the business partnerships that will arise.”

The company said the site will operate with strict safety and responsible-gambling measures. “Our priority remains to offer an environment where gaming is overseen safely and responsibly, fostering low-risk gambling,” Bergeron said, noting the facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art security systems and staff trained to support players.

In addition to slot machines, video lottery terminals, electronic roulette and electronic blackjack, the new Salon de jeux will offer shows and live entertainment to attract both visitors and conference attendees. Tourism, along with wood and aluminum, is a key economic driver in the Saguenay region.

The province currently operates gaming halls in Quebec City and Trois-Rivières, while another is under construction in Rimouski and scheduled to open in 2026 at Hotel Rimouski.

Saguenay Mayor Luc Boivin welcomed the announcement, saying the project will strengthen the city’s appeal as a destination for tourists and business events. “We enthusiastically welcome Loto-Québec to our city,” he said.

“With this new location, which focuses on quality offerings in a safe environment, our city will strengthen its appeal as a tourist destination and gain a valuable asset for hosting business events.” He added that the municipality will work with the operator to ensure the gaming hall delivers “economic spinoffs for the region as a whole,”  Boivin said.