Harrah’s announced on Wed 3/26/2014 the closure of their largest casino operations in Tunica on June 2. The move impacts some 1300 workers. “After exploring every other viable alternative, we have come to the difficult but necessary conclusion to close Harrah’s Tunica in an effort to appropriately position our business for the current market opportunity and ensure the long-term viability of our remaining operations in the vicinity,” said John Payne, President of Central Markets and Partnership Development. “We are extremely appreciative of the enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment made by the employees of Harrah’s Tunica to provide outstanding service to our customers. We are determined to provide them with resources to help them in this transition,” Caesars Entertainment told MHProNews. What the exact impact this has on the Tunica Manufactured Housing Show is not immediately clear, as news helicopters were seen overhead during the afternoon. Show management has not yet commented on the development, but sources are hopeful the property’s future purchase may clarify in the next few weeks. Caesar’s Regional President for the Mid-South Scott Barber explained, “This is a market that’s seen seven consecutive years of year over year declines from a revenue standpoint,” WREG told MHProNews. Attendance at the 2014 Tunica Manufactured Housing Show has been good, and traffic in the displays and exhibits has been brisk. The Tunica Show is open until noon Friday, 3/28/2014 for industry professionals with a business card and photo ID. MHProNews will provide updates on this development as soon as it is available. ##
