Marketing Video Lotteries Responsibly

VLT Network Reconfiguration

As proposed in Loto-Québec’s 2004-2007 Development Plan, the reconfiguration of the Corporation’s network of video lottery terminals is aimed at diminishing the number of sites offering these games by at least 31%. At the same time, the reconfiguration effort will concentrate the majority of recuperated VLTs at sites controlled by Loto-Québec. However, game offerings must remain sufficiently varied and geographically diverse so as to prevent the reappearance of illegal terminals. Furthermore, Loto-Québec expects the number of sites to decrease to 2,521, which represents 1,142 fewer sites than in 2003.

As such, as of March 31, 2008, 1,650 VLT’s had been withdrawn from the network, a total drop of 900 sites since the development plan was first implemented.

Moreover, thanks to the implementation of a voluntary withdrawal program, the initial plan has been augmented with more than 130 other sites having been cut from the network.

To date, over 72% of the site reduction target has been attained.

An agreement with the Ministry of Health and Social Services also calls for the removal of all VLTs from sites located within a 2.3-kilometre radius of the first two gaming centres to have opened their doors. The application of this measure translates into the closure of 35 additional sites in Québec City and another seven sites in Trois-Rivières. In all, 46 sites will be closed by 2009 within the prescribed perimeter in the Québec City region and 19 sites in the Trois-Rivières area.

The voluntary withdrawal program will remain in effect until November 2009 for retailers located within a 2.3-kilometre radius of the Québec City and Trois-Rivières gaming centres that are not subject to the compulsory withdrawal program. In exchange for the removed VLTs, retailers are being offered financial compensation equivalent to one year’s commission. In implementing this voluntary program, the Corporation is committed to ensuring that game offerings do not increase in areas surrounding the gaming centres.