Barrière plans overhaul of Póvoa casino, Lisbon hotel

France’s Barrière plans a major overhaul of Casino da Póvoa after taking over the northern Portugal venue in May, including a revamp of the historic building, more gaming capacity and new entertainment formats, the group’s deputy general manager for the casino told ECO. The move signals a long-term expansion by an international operator in Portugal’s gambling and hospitality market.

Hector Freitas said Barrière has already bought 17 new slot machines and a new electronic roulette with 20 gaming positions, with installation expected to be completed by the end of this month after inspection procedures. The group has also opened a new restaurant and changed the layout of table gaming areas as part of its first operational changes at the casino, which employs about 220 people.

Freitas said the company is preparing a broader modernisation plan for the 1930s neoclassical building, with a more contemporary interior and changes to the gaming offer. A more detailed plan should be ready by late 2026 or early 2027, he said, adding that the project would involve “several million” euros, without giving a precise figure. Barrière also plans to recruit Portuguese artists for locally produced shows, with a casting process expected in September or October.

Beyond Póvoa de Varzim, the French group is also moving ahead with a Lisbon project that includes a hotel and a residence. According to Freitas, the residence should open around the end of this year, while the hotel is expected one to two years later because it requires more extensive construction work.

Asked about online gambling in Portugal, Freitas said it is not currently part of the group’s plans, but Barrière has a team studying the market. He said the company sees room to grow in Portugal despite the rise of online gaming, arguing that casinos can still compete through in-person entertainment, restaurants and live shows.

Originally published at Eco.pt