A grocery store chain has taken a step that many shoppers never expected to see while buying milk and vegetables.
For the first time, customers can now legally gamble inside a grocery store thanks to a newly approved local law and license, opening the door to slot-style gaming machines where food aisles once stood alone.
The move is already drawing strong reactions, with some residents welcoming the extra revenue and others calling it a controversial shift in how everyday shopping spaces are used.
What exactly changed under the new law
The change happened after local officials approved a gaming license, allowing a grocery store to operate video gaming terminals, commonly referred to as slot machines. Until now, this type of gambling was not allowed inside grocery stores in the area.
Under state gaming rules, licensed establishments like grocery stores are allowed to operate up to six machines. This legal limit ensures the store does not resemble a casino but still allows customers to place bets during regular shopping hours.
This approval marks the first time shoppers can legally gamble inside a grocery store in this community.
Which Grocery Store Is Involved
The store involved is operated by Berkot’s, a family-owned grocery chain with multiple locations across Illinois and Wisconsin. The gaming machines are being introduced at the Crete, Illinois location, roughly 34 miles south of Chicago.
The Crete store recently changed ownership after Berkot’s purchased several locations from another long-standing grocery brand. After the transition, the company applied for and received permission to add gaming inside the store.
How The gaming Area Will Work
According to village officials, the gaming area will be discreet, meaning it will not be placed front and center inside the store. The machines will be located in a designated space, separate from the main grocery aisles.
Key features of the setup include:
- A maximum of six slot-style machines
- Trained employees monitoring the gaming area
- Compliance with state gambling regulations
- Restricted access according to age and gaming laws
Officials emphasized that most shoppers may not even notice the machines unless they actively seek them out.
Why the Decision is Controversial
Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of gambling inside a grocery store. Some residents worry it could normalize gambling in everyday environments and increase risks for people who struggle with addiction.
Others argue that grocery stores are family-oriented spaces and should remain separate from betting activities.
However, supporters say the machines are strictly regulated, limited in number, and already common in bars, truck stops, and restaurants across the state.
Financial impact on the community
One of the biggest reasons local leaders supported the move is revenue. Money generated from video gaming is shared between operators and local governments.
In this case, officials stated that gaming revenue helps support the local police pension fund. The town has highlighted that its pension system is among the better funded in the state, and gaming revenue plays a role in maintaining that stability without raising taxes.
Key Details At A Glance
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Grocery chain | Berkot’s |
| Location | Crete, Illinois |
| New change | Slot-style video gaming inside store |
| Legal limit | Up to 6 machines |
| Monitoring | Trained staff and regulated oversight |
| Revenue use | Supports local police pension fund |
| Public reaction | Mixed, with both support and concern |
Allowing slot machines inside a grocery store represents a major shift in how communities balance convenience, revenue, and social responsibility.
Thanks to a new law and local approval, Berkot’s Crete location is now part of a growing trend where everyday businesses adopt regulated gambling to stay competitive.
While the move remains controversial, officials believe strict limits, oversight, and community benefits justify the decision. As more towns explore similar options, grocery shopping may continue to look very different in the years ahead.
FAQs
What controversial purchase can shoppers make now?
Shoppers can legally use slot-style video gaming machines inside the grocery store.
How many gambling machines are allowed?
The store is limited to six machines, as required by state gaming rules.
Why did officials approve gambling in a grocery store?
Local leaders say the move generates extra revenue, particularly to help fund the police pension system, without increasing taxes.
Source: DanKaminisky
Source Link: https://dankaminsky.com/grocery-stores-now-allow-restricted-purchases/