After facing intense backlash from the public and government officials, Star Entertainment Group has made a shocking U-turn just a day after receiving temporary relief from COVID-19 restrictions at its Sydney casino. The Australian casino operator had previously announced plans to reopen its doors to the public despite ongoing concerns about the spread of the virus.
The decision to reverse course comes after widespread criticism of the company’s disregard for public health and safety measures. Several government officials, including New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian, had expressed their disapproval of Star Entertainment’s initial plans to resume operations at its Sydney casino.
In a statement released earlier today, Star Entertainment Group CEO Matt Bekier acknowledged the concerns raised by the public and government officials. “We have heard the feedback from the community and understand the importance of prioritizing public health during these uncertain times,” Bekier said. “As a responsible corporate citizen, we have decided to postpone the reopening of our Sydney casino until further notice.”
The decision to delay the reopening of the Sydney casino is a significant setback for Star Entertainment, which had hoped to capitalize on the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in New South Wales. The company had initially planned to welcome back guests to its flagship property on Friday, but faced immediate backlash from the public and government officials.
The abrupt reversal highlights the delicate balance that companies must strike between economic interests and public health concerns during the ongoing pandemic. With cases of COVID-19 on the rise in several parts of Australia, businesses like Star Entertainment are facing increasing pressure to prioritize the safety of their employees and customers.
Despite the setback, Star Entertainment remains optimistic about the future of its business. The company has pledged to work closely with government officials and public health authorities to ensure a safe and responsible reopening of its Sydney casino in the coming weeks.
Investors reacted positively to the news of Star Entertainment’s decision to postpone the reopening of its Sydney casino, with shares of the company trading slightly higher on the Australian Stock Exchange. The company’s stock price had plunged earlier in the week following the announcement of its initial reopening plans.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, companies like Star Entertainment Group will need to navigate a complex web of public health concerns and economic considerations. The decision to delay the reopening of the Sydney casino reflects a growing awareness of the need to prioritize public health and safety during these challenging times.
