Gambling giant Entain intends to put an end to its greyhound racing track in Crayford. The gambling giant revealed that the racetrack is no longer as profitable as it once was, leading to this difficult decision.
The Racetrack Is No Longer Profitable
The Crayford Greyhound Stadium has been operating since 1986. Because of its participation in the building of the track, Entain noted that the decision to close it had not been taken lightly.
Simon Clare, communications director for Entain, said that his team was saddened to announce the intended closure. He added that the company had been exploring various alternatives for some time but has now decided that it is finally time to let go.
Clare explained that the racing track has seen support dwindle over the past years, leading to insufficient trainer interest in fulfilling its schedules, inconsistent race days and failure to attract racing fans.
Clare clarified that impacted workers have been notified of the intention to close the track and that the company will soon consult the options available to them. He also reiterated the company’s vow to support the impacted trainers.
It is uncertain whether Entain will close or sell the race track and when that will happen. In any case, the company noted that the Crayford Greyhound Stadium will remain open throughout the upcoming holidays and run its normal schedule.
Entain Appointed a New COO
In other news, Entain recently expanded its team with the appointment of Dafne Guisard as its new chief operations officer. She is set to step into the office on January 13, 2025.
The appointee joins the operator from The Kraft Heinz Company where she served as chief strategy, transformation and digital officer, spearheading its ten-year growth strategy. At Entain, she will “drive operational excellence, leading global strategic planning, the customer service organization, and M&A integration,” according to the operator.
Described as a tech-savvy individual who is skilled in the use of artificial intelligence, Guisard boasts skills that will be a valuable addition to Entain’s leadership. She was welcomed on board by Gavin Isaacs, Entain’s CEO, who lauded her experience in driving growth and transformation.
Isaacs said: “Her appointment will help place Entain at the leading edge of innovation, as well as strengthen the executive management team as we build on a period of stronger-than-expected revenue growth and key market expansion. Dafne will be a tremendous asset to Entain.”
In the meantime, Entain continues exploring growth opportunities in Brazil, although it expects its local growth to slow down.
