Finnish operator Veikkaus has announced the temporary closure of its slot machines in restaurants and cafes across the Satakunta area, but its slot halls will remain open.
The measure comes as a response to a resurgence of novel coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in the area.
This has led to the government reintroducing its ban on restaurant and cafe operations, as well as dancing and karaoke.
Slot machines in grocery stores, kiosks and service and traffic stations in the Satakunta region will remain playable, in addition to slot machines in Veikkaus’ own gaming venues.
Veikkaus had to halt gaming activities in the same region back in January due to pandemic-induced restrictions.
The closure of venues forced by Covid-19 led to a 32.6% decrease in Veikkaus’ profits in 2020.
This comes after the Finnish government submitted proposals for a change to the country’s Lottery Act, including payment blocking and a ban on slot machine advertising.
