The first Harrah’s Casino, in Reno, closed within two months because of poor location but from that inauspicious start a legend grew. William Harrah, with his reputation for running honest games and treating both customers and employees well, shaped the gaming industry more than anyone else. Both the Nevada Gaming Control Board and the Gambling Commission were created under his influence to keep corruption and crime out of casinos. He was also the first to employ dealers regardless of race or sex.

William Harrah died in 1978 but Harrah’s Entertainment is now the world’s largest gaming company. It operates under the Harrah's, Harvey's, Rio, Caesars, Horseshoe and Showboat brand and is seeking to expand internationally. Not successful in its first attempt for a casino resort in Singapore it is now bidding for a second. In Spain Harrah’s will provide 60% of the capital, over US$800 million, in a project with the Avantis Group to build a Quijote-themed casino resort in Ciudad Real. The company also has a joint venture project for a casino resort in Slovenia.

Harrah’s is now reportedly considering a greater European presence and looking towards the UK. Should a merger be finalised between Stanley Leisure and London Clubs International, then Harrah’s could be interested in acquiring the new company, according to analysts. If Harrah’s one day does become part of the UK gaming scene, it should certainly encourage the local operators to provide a 21st century service industry, benefiting both customers and employees. (E-08.14.06)

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