facilityprofile
“Entertainment is a major unique selling point for us versus our competition and has helped us drive traffic, drive trial and support the Caesars brand.” latest contributions to the charitable sector and its continuing goal to serve an active role in its community. “Since the beginning, it has been important for Caesars Windsor to be a responsible corporate citizen by contributing to the health and vibrancy of our community, over and above our role as a major employer and significant tourism driver in the region. Caesars Windsor has donated more than $10 million to hard-working, worthy non-profit organizations that improve the health, diversity and environment in the Windsor-Essex region,” said Laforet. While the Caesars Windsor brand may be turning five, the legacy of the Caesars Windsor facility stretches back beyond its 2008 origins. In 1994, the Ontario government joined Caesars World, Circus Circus Enterprises, and Hilton Hotels to open Casino Windsor, the province's first casino in the renovated Art Gallery of Windsor on Riverside drive. The response from both Canadian and US gamers was immediate, motivating the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation to up its ante with the introduction of The Northern Belle riverboat casino, which ran from December 1995 to July 1998. In 1998, the casino was relocated from its temporary location to a permanent home on the former Windsor Market site. Seven years later in 2005, the Ontario Government, OLG, and Caesars Windsor's staff embarked on a $400 million expansion project which set the stage for a 2008 relaunch showcasing the facility's new Caesars Windsor name, as well as 100,000 square feet of convention space, the Augustus Tower, new restaurants and bars, exhibition space, and a wealth of other amenities.
32 | Fall 2013
The relaunch also included the opening of a Colosseum entertainment centre which has played host to hundreds of celebrity performances. “The opening of the Colosseum in 2008 allowed Caesars Windsor to provide a world-class, state of the art venue to host some of the biggest names in music and entertainment,” noted Laforet, adding, “The 5,000 seat theatre allows avid music lovers to see and hear their favourite bands play live and up close including KISS, Billy Joel, The Tragically Hip, Celine Dion, Maroon 5, Bruno Mars, Reba, BB King, Journey, Jay Leno, Chris Rock, Chelsea Handler and Ke$ha just to name a few. Entertainment is a major unique selling point for us versus our competition and has helped us drive traffic, drive trial and support the Caesars brand.” Leading the way Catering to players and entertainment seekers from both sides the border, Caesars Windsor remains a major player in the Ontario gaming scene. Its management remains focused on building upon the world-renowned Caesars Entertainment brand, while serving as a positive force for change and growth within the WindsorEssex region. “Caesars Windsor continues to deliver what is most important to our guests,” said Laforet, “The best service in the Detroit region, world-class luxury amenities, and exciting entertainment. Continuing to focus on these elements allows our property to succeed in retaining loyal customers and attracting new business despite external economic challenges.” For more information, visit: www.caesarswindsor.com