Post-COVID gaming environments are evolving, and an analysis has shown that players are becoming more accepting of smokefree casino floors. This was highlighted by casino finance analysts Geoff Atkinson and Matt Roob during a recent webinar, revealing insights into how the pandemic has transformed habits and operations in the gaming industry.
Key Points
- Post-pandemic, players show increased acceptance of smokefree gaming environments.
- Operators are accommodating smokers with outdoor smoking areas, mitigating potential losses.
- Smoking rates have significantly decreased over the years, influencing casino revenue dynamics.
- The pandemic acted as a catalyst for casinos to rethink their smoking policies.
- Data shows mixed results on revenue impacts from transitioning to smokefree floors, indicating economic factors also play a vital role.
Content Summary
Two finance analysts, Geoff Atkinson and Matt Roob, discussed the ongoing changes in gaming revenue and player preferences regarding smoking in casinos. Their analysis pointed out that there’s been a growing acceptance of smokefree casino floors since the pandemic, as fewer people smoke now compared to past decades. While they indicated that switching to nonsmoking environments has financially impacted casinos, the influence has diminished as smoking rates among adults have dropped.
They shared various examples demonstrating the nuanced relationship between smokefree policies and gaming revenue, noting that external economic factors, like the recession or new competition, can heavily influence outcomes. For instance, analysis of the Illinois market revealed that drops in revenue could not be solely attributed to smoking bans; other regional changes played a significant role.
Casinos like Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods have remained committed to smokefree policies post-COVID, noting that their performance has been relatively stable compared to competition that permitted smoking. Operators are encouraged to clearly communicate their accommodation policies for smokers to ensure a smooth transition for patrons.
Why should I read this?
This article dives into an essential shift in the gaming industry that could affect your next trip to the casino. With the increasingly positive attitude towards smokefree environments, understanding this trend is key for both players and casino operators. Plus, it’s fascinating to see how the pandemic reshaped these policies and customer behaviour—get ahead of the curve by staying informed!
