Many changes at Casino Windsor

Last Friday, government, business and community leaders gathered at Casino Windsor for the unveiling of the casino's new 9,454 square-foot Rotunda. Attendees were also taken by surprise when the casino announced another significant change - Casino Windsor would be changing its name to Ceasars Windsor beginning in 2008.

The Rotunda, which took 18 months to complete, is a two-story entertainment hub that opens onto the casino's newly renovated main gaming floor. It features multiple venues including a first-floor lounge and second-story bar and patio which offers views of the Detroit skyline.

The new space officially opened to the public at 5 p.m. on Friday, and marks the completion of the initial phase of renovations at Casino Windsor. The next phase of the $400-million project includes a 22-story hotel tower, a 5,000-seat entertainment center, a 100,000-square-foot convention center and additional restaurants and lounges. The expansion is expected to be completed in early 2008 in conjunction with the official name change to Ceasars Windsor.

One of the benefits of the Caesars re-branding is the ability for the casino to introduce new marketing programs such as Ceasars Total Rewards. The program allows customers to earn credits based on the games they play, and the length of time they play them. The credits can be redeemed for meals, merchandise, trips, concerts and other benefits at the casino. Casino officials are also hoping the Ceasars name will bring more big-name entertainers into Windsor.

The re-branding and the opening of the Rotunda follow closely on the heels of other additions recently unveiled at the casino. Earlier this year, Casino Windsor introduced its new Legends Sports Lounge to the public, which features sports wagering on American football, baseball, college football and international hockey.

The recent changes at Casino Windsor represent a push to bring back U.S. customers lost during the past year. The Ontario-wide smoking ban, which took effect this past May, significantly affected the casino, mostly because of its border location and its heavy reliance on U.S. tourism - about 80 percent of Casino Windsor patrons travel from the U.S. The casino also felt the effects of an unfavorable exchange rate and tighter border security, which has produced an increase in delays crossing the U.S./Canadian border. Casino Windsor is also in direct competition with Detroit's three commercial casinos, all of which are also renovating and expanding, and are not currently under any tobacco ban.