Buenos Aires Moves Forward with Casino Renovation Programme
Argentina.– 14 January 2026 – www.zonadeazar.com The Provincial Lottery and Casino Institute of Buenos Aires (IPLyC) is advancing formal plans to renovate several key casinos across the province, including flagship venues on the Atlantic coast. The government estimates that more than ARS 40 billion (approx. USD 27 million) will be invested to modernise infrastructure, update technology and protect local employment in the land-based gaming sector.
Overview
As Buenos Aires enters peak summer season, the IPLyC confirmed significant progress in the public tender process to refurbish physical casino venues across the province.
The renovation programme reaches iconic establishments in Mar del Plata, Miramar and Tandil, and positions the land-based sector for a new era in which online gaming continues to gain market share.
According to IPLyC leadership, the programme is not just a refurbishment of facilities: it seeks to revalue the in-venue gaming proposition, broaden entertainment offerings and improve the player experience to meet present-day customer expectations.
Details & Scope
The improvement agenda includes:
• Mar del Plata’s Hermitage and Sasso casinos, traditional hubs of seasonal tourism
• Miramar‘s casino
• Tandil’s gaming venue
Key project elements:
• Structural and architectural upgrades
• Replacement of gaming floors and equipment
• New cashier layouts aligned with security standards
• Enhancements in energy efficiency and comfort
• Integration of smart technology
One strategic pillar is the implementation of digital payment systems, including QR codes and mobile wallets. These features will launch in coordination with the Bank of the Province of Buenos Aires, supporting transparency, traceability and easier player onboarding.
Officials argue that aligning physical casinos with digital consumer behaviours is essential to remain competitive—particularly as the regulated online market accelerates.
Sector Subthemes
Modernising land-based gaming
A renovation wave signals that casino floors continue to have relevance—but require reinvention. Food service, live entertainment, events and retail can convert properties into multi-purpose leisure destinations rather than single-product venues.
Digital transformation in physical space
The rollout of wallet-ready payment systems is expected to reduce cash management risk, improve compliance and enable a smoother connection between digital and on-site experiences.
Employment and local economic impact
Casino operations support thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Renovations provide continuity for existing staff and potentially create new roles in hospitality, events and customer service.
Competition with online markets
With online betting platforms expanding rapidly, land-based venues need to offer added value: atmosphere, human interaction and curated experiences that cannot be replicated digitally.
Regulatory evolution and transparency
Modernised financial flows will reinforce anti-money-laundering controls and help provincial gaming authorities maintain tighter oversight over real-time activity without restricting legitimate play.
Forward Outlook
The IPLyC has signalled that 2026 will be a decisive year.
Next milestones include:
- Installation of digital payment systems across all venues before the end of summer
- Completion of first-stage structural works in top-priority locations
- New commercial entertainment offerings, including seasonal programming and events
- Potential private-sector partnerships to co-finance future expansions
If successful, the programme may become a blueprint for modernising Argentina’s wider land-based gaming landscape—a balance of heritage, innovation and responsible development.
🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com