Encore Boston not hitting lofty projections, blames soft revenue from slot machines

BOSTON — Encore Boston opened in late June with great fanfare, as thousands of gamblers crowded into Everett to experience the Boston area’s first casino resort.

Pre-opening projections hit $800 million.

Seven months later, there are signs the excitement could be waning.

Encore Boston did not hit those lofty projections, blaming soft revenue from slot machines.

And now it appears some employees are feeling the pinch.

Last Friday, a source told Boston 25 News that 70 bartenders, apprentices and casino workers were told during mandatory meetings that their jobs were being cut.

Not only that, but the displaced bartenders who work so-called ‘Back of the House’ service bars, located out of sight of customers, are being replaced by dispensary machines that cocktail servers would have to operate themselves.

In a statement to Boston 25 News, Encore Boston said "The addition of the drink dispensers allows us the opportunity to significantly improve both the speed of service and provide a better guest experience. These dispensers are not unique to Encore."

On Monday, Boston 25 news has learned, Boston Encore held a job fair at the casino for the affected workers.

But I’m told employees found there were not enough full-time or comparable jobs for everyone, and that one position was already filled before it was presented to the soon to be out of work employees.

Encore Boston would not specifically talk about the job cuts, but hinted at more possible moves.

“We will continue to right size our business and always do everything we can to provide alternate job opportunities for our employees within our organization."

Workers were shocked to learn about the job cuts. Many thought they’d have careers here.

Instead, we’re told, these cuts will go into effect next Friday.

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