Merkur Casino UK has completed the acquisition of The Casino MK, located in the Xscape leisure complex at Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes. The venue, previously operated by Aspers, ceased operations on 7 April 2025 after the company entered administration.
Reopening Plans and Strengthening UK Portfolio
Merkur is moving swiftly to reopen The Casino MK in the coming months. A local recruitment drive is now underway, aimed at bringing back former staff and hiring new team members, reflecting Merkur’s commitment to revitalizing the local leisure economy.
The Casino MK will offer a full suite of table games, including blackjack, poker, and roulette, as well as modern slot machines. Merkur confirmed that the venue will be updated to mirror its refined design and operational standards. Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer, emphasised the venue’s established role in regional entertainment, expressing pride in delivering both jobs and quality leisure options to the city.
This development marks Merkur’s second land-based casino in the UK, following the successful opening of its Aberdeen venue in 2023. Driving the strategy forward, Merkur is signaling continued confidence in the viability of retail gaming, even amid a challenging UK market. Analysts view the move as a clear sign of its bullish approach to traditional casino operations.
Global Growth Momentum
Merkur’s domestic move comes alongside an ambitious international push. In May 2025, its parent company, Merkur Group, secured a license from the Nevada Gaming Commission, re-entering the US market after a hiatus of over two decades. That approval also advanced its planned acquisition of Las Vegas-based Gaming Arts, which holds licenses across more than 155 jurisdictions.
With its UK headquarters already in Milton Keynes, Merkur’s acquisition of The Casino MK further consolidates the city’s importance to its national operations. The timing and location underscore a dual strategy: strengthening UK presence through brick-and-mortar outlets while expanding internationally via strategic licenses and M&A.
