Long-term layoffs expected for MGM Grand Detroit

Casino operator “forced to reassess” reopening with long term layoffs likely.

US.- MGM Grand Detroit expects long-term layoffs for staff as the casino battles the financial impact of Michigan’s extended lockdown measures due to Covid-19.

The resort wrote a letter to the state notifying it of the economic impact staff will face during the continued closure of its venue.

In the notice, the company said: “I write to advise you on our updated assessment of the current environment related to the Covid-19 virus and its impact on our business.

“Beginning during the 14-day period from March 2, 2020 through March 15, 2020, the downturn in our business due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequently announced government ordered closures of several of our facilities caused us to lay off most of our workforce at MGM Grand Detroit, LLC d/b/a MGM Grand Detroit.

“We were optimistic at the time of the initial layoff in March that we would be able to reopen quickly. However, we have had to reassess our reopening date given the duration and severity of the Covid-19 pandemic and its effects on MGM Grand Detroit.”

At the end of March, the company announced that it would stop paying staff but would continue to pay some benefits.