Victorian TAB’s Future Retail Network Revealed
A multi-million dollar refurbishment of TAB retail outlets has been revealed to the public today with the re-opening of Tabcorp's flagship store in Bourke Street.
Minister for Racing Denis Napthine and Tabcorp Chairman Paula Dwyer have officially opened the new state-of-the-art retail outlet as part of a three-year plan to refurbish 92 outlets.
Dr Napthine said the Victorian racing industry would benefit by providing an exciting high-end audio-visual experience and welcoming atmosphere for punters who were unable to make it to the track.
“Tabcorp's TAB retail outlets are some of the best in the world, and with these major refurbishments the thrill and entertainment of racing will be accessible to a wider audience,” Dr Napthine said.
“Wagering is a vital part of racing. The new joint venture agreement between Tabcorp and the Victorian Racing Industry will come into effect in August this year, delivering greater returns to the industry.
“It is fitting that Tabcorp's TAB network supports this. The new modern contemporary design of its flagship store in Bourke Street represents a stylish new future.
“Racing is a $2 billion dollar-plus industry in Victoria, employing more than 70,000 people.
“The Spring Racing Carnival alone last year pumped around $579 million into the Victorian economy, and the upgrading of TAB stores is one step in helping to further grow these economic benefits,” Dr Napthine said.
Tabcorp Chairman Paula Dwyer said Tabcorp was proud of its retail network, which served millions of customers a year and accounted for almost two-thirds of the company's wagering turnover.
“The upgraded Bourke Street TAB provides a fantastic betting experience for customers and reinforces our commitment to delivering the world's best retail wagering experience,” Ms Dwyer said.
The retail upgrade at the Bourke Street TAB includes:
• Refurbishment featuring a modern contemporary design, including furniture, fixtures, seating and lighting
• Enhanced product zoning with multiple racing, sport, trackside and keno zones
• New state-of-the-art racing theatres
• Large flat screen presentation for all racing and sports vision
• Significantly enhanced sports zone, including live sports betting
• High end audio and visual technology, and
• Expanded self-service terminals and wifi internet services within a “café style” environment.
The new 12-year Wagering and Betting Licence will result in the industry getting a greater share of joint venture profits, increased to a 50/50 arrangement under the new agreement, where previously it was only 25 per cent.