Golden Palace targets redevelopment of Brussels' Viage casino through concession bid

The Golden Palace group has announced a bid to take over the concession for Brussels’ Viage casino. The project would become the Belgian operator's first casino venture in its home market. The concession also includes a gaming license.

Golden Palace would invest €30 million ($33.9 million) in the redevelopment of the casino through its bid for the property's 15-year concession, which expires on Dec. 31. The tender was launched by the Belgian capital in May.

If selected, the company intends to transform the current Viage casino into a large entertainment complex. Massimo Menegalli, CEO of Golden Palace, said the group's plans extend beyond operating a casino.

According to Menegalli, the company aims to create “a true entertainment hub, in the heart of the pedestrian zone, bringing together gaming, culture, gastronomy, events, and tourism.”

Golden Palace is also expected to operate four casinos in France by the end of 2026.

The Brussels concession has attracted interest from multiple gaming operators.

Viage, a subsidiary of Casinos Austria International, has applied to renew its existing license. Star Casino, based in Chaudfontaine, and Napoleon Games, operator of the Knokke-le-Zoute casino, have also confirmed their interest in the concession.

The Ardent Group, parent company of Circus Casino and Gaming1, is also reported to have submitted an application. The company operates gaming establishments in Spa and Namur, along with nine venues in France through its subsidiary Circus Casino France.

Infiniti, which operates two casinos in Belgium and two in France, has reportedly entered the bidding process as well.

According to the latest year accounted for by the Belgian Gambling Commission, Viage generated €52.45 million ($59.27 million) in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in 2023.

The casino ranked first among Belgium's nine gaming establishments during the year. Its GGR represented 37.48% of the country's total casino gaming revenue.