OPAP reopens stores across Greece

Greek gambling operator OPAP has reopened retail stores across Greece as the national government eases Covid-19 restrictions.

Greece.- Greek gambling operator OPAP has begun to reopen its 3,750 stores across Greece as the government eases Covid-19 lockdown restrictions.

Street vendors have also begun selling Hellenic Lotteries products once again, but OPAP’s Play-branded stores remain closed until further notice.

All stores in Greece and Cyprus shut due to Covid-19 restrictions imposed back on March 14.

OPAP said it was following government measures to protect staff and customers.

Seating areas have been closed off and stores will be disinfected regularly and customers visiting stores must keep 1.5 metres apart.

More specific measures have been introduced at certain stores, with smaller venues allowing only four people to enter at a time. Larger stores will allow one person per 10m² of floor space.

Employees and customers are also strongly advised to wear protective masks, and customers are encouraged to pay by card rather than cash. 

A spokesperson for the operator said: “OPAP assures customers that its employees and agents are working to secure the smooth reopening of the stores’ network and the best possible service for them, offering again OPAP games.

“OPAP also urges customers to carefully adhere to the prevention and hygiene guidelines and avoid crowding inside and outside stores.”

The operator expects gross gaming revenue to fall by €140million and earnings by €53million owing to the pandemic. 

Greece is being hailed as something of a role model for its approach to Covid-19. The country has reported relatively low infection and death rates from after introducing early lockdown measures.

Greek Bookmaker Stoiximan recently launched a new TV ad in the country thanking the emergency services for their work.