The Slot Machine Association announced plans to cut 80 jobs.

The Finnish Slot Machine Association (Ray) said in a statement Monday it would cut the equivalent of about 80 jobs, adding statutory cooperation procedure talks would start in early August.

"The growth in slot machines is mainly achieved through developing new technologies, such as internet distribution," the government gaming monopoly said.

"In addition to the Ray strategy, the need for change is based on the measures taken by the Finnish government and changes in consumer behaviour."

"According to the revised Lottery Act, the marketing of gaming is limited in autumn 2010, and the general age limit for gaming will be increased to 18 years in 2011. In addition, the lottery tax for slot machine and casino gaming operations will be increased from 8.2 per cent to 10 per cent in the beginning of 2011.

Ray added that 345 workers were affected by the job cut talks.
Ray employs about 1,700 people.

STT
LEHTIKUVA - JUSSI NUKARI