Las Vegas Sands has joined Wynn Resorts and MGM Resorts by closing its Las Vegas properties, with The Venetian and Palazzo to shut down operations until at least 1 April.
The company announced overnight that it would begin the process of closing down the properties immediately. A decision on whether to extend the closure will be made at a later date but LVS said it would continue paying its team members while the buildings are closed and that no layoffs are being contemplated.
“These are clearly challenging times for our country and our community,” said LVS President and COO Rob Goldstein.
“We are in the hospitality and entertainment business and our team members work very hard to provide a great experience for the thousands of people who come through our doors daily. However, our most important commitment is the one we have made to the health and safety of our team members and guests.
“Right now, the best way to fulfil that commitment is by asking people to not come to work. While we hope this closure is a short-term necessity, we are realistic it may be a prolonged event. Our team members and their families will rightly be concerned about their health and safety, but we do not want them worried about their jobs, income or health care. Like we have done in the past, we are fully prepared to support our team members over an extended period should it be needed.”
LVS said it was also donating US$250,000 to several local organizations to serve the community, including Three Square, Communities In Schools and Share Village Las Vegas. The company will also donate meals and equipment.