MERKUR Casino UK has completed the acquisition of Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds, expanding its portfolio of land-based gaming venues in the UK.
The casino, located within the Victoria Gate retail and leisure complex in Leeds city centre, was previously owned and operated by a subsidiary of VGC Developments Ltd.
The venue closed temporarily on 6 July to facilitate the transfer of ownership and is scheduled to reopen under the MERKUR brand on 13 July. MERKUR said existing jobs at the casino will be retained as part of the transition.
Following the reopening, the operator plans to introduce a customer loyalty programme and undertake upgrades to the venue in line with its brand standards. The casino will continue to offer table games, including blackjack, poker and roulette alongside slot machines.
The acquisition is MERKUR’s third casino venue in the UK, following the opening of Aberdeen Casino in 2023 and the acquisition of Casino MK in Milton Keynes in 2025. The company said the purchase forms part of its wider UK growth strategy and reflects its continued investment in the country’s land-based gaming sector.
Mark Schertle, chief operating officer for MERKUR Casino UK, said: “Leeds is a vibrant city with a strong hospitality and entertainment scene, and we believe Victoria Gate Casino represents an exciting opportunity for MERKUR as we continue to grow our UK casino portfolio. We remain committed to investing in quality leisure venues and supporting the future of land-based gaming in the UK.”
“We are also pleased to be able to support local jobs and retain all experienced team members whose passion and professionalism helped make the casino such a well-established destination. We are focused on investing in the venue and look forward to reopening the doors and introducing customers to the MERKUR experience in the months ahead.”
Mark added, “The acquisition of Victoria Gate Casino reflects our confidence in the future of land-based casinos in the UK and our ambition to continue growing the MERKUR brand in key locations. Customers are looking for high-quality entertainment experiences, and our focus is on delivering a modern casino environment that combines great gaming, hospitality, and customer service. We’re excited about the opportunities in Leeds and look forward to becoming part of the city’s leisure landscape.”
Richard Noble, CEO at Victoria Gate Casino added: “We are proud of what has been built at Victoria Gate Casino and are pleased to be working with MERKUR on the transfer of the venue. They share our commitment to delivering a high-quality customer experience and we look forward to seeing them continue the success of this venue.”
