Published: 10.04.2020, 12:57
2 min read
The NOVOMATIC group, which is a major Austrian gaming technology producer and operator, recently gave a press release detailing the steps they are taking to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Let’s take a look at the press release’s key pieces of information.
- COVID-19 Effect on Austria Gambling Industry
- Austria Calls for Independent Gambling Regulator Amid Concerns of Corruption
The Spread of the Coronavirus in Austria
First, NOVOMATIC explained Austria’s strict regulations that have been in effect recently. Austria has mandated societal restrictions in order to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. For instance, gatherings of more than five people have been prohibited, all universities and schools have temporarily closed, and people must stand a distance of at least 1 meter apart. In addition to this, travel has been restricted; people must stay home unless they are performing essential activities, such as going to the hospital or purchasing groceries.
So far, the nation has tested approximately 30,000 people – of which 7,557 cases were confirmed. On top of this, Austria has experienced 55 deaths. However, there have also been 225 people who have completely recovered from the coronavirus.
Of the current confirmed cases, 98% are in mild condition and 2% are in serious or critical condition. Out of the closed cases, 80% resulted in recovery and 20% were fatal.
Sebastian Kurz, the Chancellor of Austria, announced that the nation is planning on testing up to 15,000 people every day. In addition to that, new tests are in development; they will be much cheaper to produce but the results will take longer.
The Austrian government is in agreement that broad testing is the best way to estimate the real rate of infection. Plus, it will help them see the percentage of people who have become immune to the coronavirus.
All of these strict regulations will be implemented on April 13th. Kurz is hopeful that, starting on April 14th, there will be a gradual withdrawal of the restrictions.
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NOVOMATIC’S Solution
Due to these regulations, NOVOMATIC has required most of its staff to work from home. Namely, employees who work in departments with high customer contact must stay home For instance, Sales and Technical Support. Furthermore, essential administrative roles such as Accounting and HR must work from home.
The company stated that the safety and health of its customers, employees, and business partners is their top priority. Because NOVOMATIC is adopting such measures, they are showing flexibility to the current situation, as well as adhesion to the company’s philosophy – “Winning Together.”
The press release closed with a quote from the VP of International Sales, Jens Einhaus. In it, he emphasized the importance of sticking together in spirit, if not in body. He also gave his assurance that the company’s employees would still be available to take and assist the requests of customers and partners.
