Media Man Tourism Blog: With the casino and the beds, our passengers will have at least two ways to get lucky on one of our flights. Richard Branson (Virgin Group)

With the casino and the beds, our passengers will have at least two ways to get lucky on one of our flights. Richard Branson (Virgin Group)

Media Man Tourism Blog: Wynn Resorts completes sale and leaseback of Encore Boston Harbor

Wynn Resorts completes sale and leaseback of Encore Boston Harbor

Profiles

Casino Casinos Hotels Property Real Estate Tourism Business Media

Massachusetts (Boston Harbor) - Wynn Resorts December 1 completed a deal for the sale of Encore Boston Harbor’s land and real estate assets to Realty Income Corporation. The $1.7 billion cash sale represents a 5.9% cash cap rate with all necessary regulatory approvals finalized. Net proceeds of the sale result in Wynn’s global liquidity position of $4.4 billion. Wynn Resorts will continue to operate Encore Boston Harbor through a triple net lease arrangement with Realty Income. The lease has an initial annual rent of $100 million for a term of 30 years, with one 30-year renewal option.

Media Man Tourism Blog: Casino, Club, Venue, Nightclub, Videogame, eSports and Poker promotions via Media Man website network

Casino, Club, Venue, Nightclub, Videogame, eSports and Poker promotions via Media Man website network

Media Man Tourism Blog: News (Gaming/Gambling): United States Igaming Revenue Report

News (Gaming/Gambling): United States Igaming Revenue Report

Total igaming revenue for October 2021 in New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Delaware added up to $445.2 million, an increase of just under 22% over October 2021…internet-gaming win reported in New Jersey was $147.2 million, reflecting growth of 15.9%...Michigan won a record $141 million from online gamblers…Revenue from igaming in Pennsylvania was $124.5 million, an increase of 17.4% over October 2021…Igaming operators set a revenue record in October at $21.9 million… West Virginia igaming revenue for October came in at $9.4 million, a 32% jump…Delaware’s internet casinos won $1.2 million from gamblers in October 2022, a 22.5% increase.

Media Man Tourism Blog: Gambling Group Estimates US Will Bet $1.8B on World Cup

Gambling Group Estimates US Will Bet $1.8B on World Cup

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. -- Americans will bet $1.8 billion on the World Cup this year, the first to be held while legal sports betting is widespread in the U.S., according to the casino industry's national trade group.

About 20.5 million American adults plan to bet on the biggest soccer tournament in the world, legally or otherwise, the American Gaming Association estimated Tuesday. The majority plan to place bets online, with a bookie or at a physical sportsbook.

The survey is the organization's first for World Cup betting.

Thirty-one states plus Washington, D.C., currently offer legal sports betting, with five additional markets due to begin soon.

“As the first World Cup with widespread availability of legal sports betting, this will certainly be the most bet-upon soccer event ever in the U.S.,” said Casey Clark, the group's senior vice president. “With more than half of all American adults having access to legal betting options in their home market, legal sports betting will deepen American fan engagement in the most-watched sporting event in the world.”

Legal wagering is currently available to 132 million Americans in their home states. That is up dramatically from the 2018 World Cup, when only 10 million had access to it in just three states.

That was the year New Jersey won a U.S. Supreme Court case clearing the way for all 50 states to offer legal sports betting if they so choose.

The survey asked respondents what they would bet on if they were given $50 to make a wager on the winner of the tournament. The results were: United States (24%); Brazil (19%); Argentina (17%) and Germany (10%).

It also shows plenty of room for growth in terms of betting on the World Cup. Less than 3 in 10 Americans who plan to watch the tournament say they will bet on it.

The tournament begins Nov. 20 with host nation Qatar taking on Ecuador. The U.S. has its first game the next day against Wales.

Media Man Tourism Blog: UFC returns to Perth in major boost for local businesses

UFC returns to Perth in major boost for local businesses

Media Statement

The UFC is returning to Perth next year.

The WA Government, through Tourism WA, is proud to support the UFC 284 at RAC Arena on February 12, 2023, and its return to WA after five years.

The star-studded event attracts top ranking fighters and is expected to draw a crowd of around 13,000 supporters, which will directly inject millions into the WA economy and support tourism businesses.

Keep an eye out as current UFC Featherweight Champion, Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski, has just touched down in #WAtheDreamState to promote Perth to his one million followers across his social media accounts.

The last WA-hosted UFC event in 2018 attracted 12,000 spectators, 1.4 million live broadcast viewers and one million out-of-home venue viewers.

For more information, read the media statement 

Social Media

Greg Tingle

Tourism Western Australia showing up the Aussie states on this occasion on how sports business and sports tourism is done "Down Under". Nothing quite like a bit of Aussie biffo and WA gets the take-down and KO over the competition today. I guess sometimes politics and sports can mix! Let's Get It On as the likes of 'Big John' or Michael Buffer may call. Punters, what's your dream match? Aussie vs The World!

Tourism WA with another tremendous sports tourism and sports business campaign. Cricket, the UFC announcement a few days ago...At this rate I may have to move there rather than just participate in campaigns from time to time, be it Red Earth Arts Festival, online peg-ons or other. WA is hitting the other Aussie states for 6! Howz That!

Media Man Tourism Blog: Bond Themed Hotel - James Bond themed hotel: Hotel Bergland: Home of James Bond

Bond Themed Hotel - James Bond themed hotel: Hotel Bergland: Home of James Bond

Media Man Tourism Blog: Media Man, Casino News Media and Greg Tingle Promotions news: Pop culture, casinos, gaming, sports...

Media Man, Casino News Media and Greg Tingle Promotions news: Pop culture, casinos, gaming, sports...

New Las Vegas resident Mark Wahlberg promises ‘Hollywood 2.0’ 

Nevada (Las Vegas) - John Katsilometes, Review-Journal - Mark Wahlberg is not moving to Las Vegas.  He already has.  We need to shift to the present-tense when referring to Vegas plans for the Hollywood A-lister, who has purchased a two-story estate in The Summit Club for $14.5 million. “My hometown,” is how Wahlberg referred to Las Vegas in the latest episode of BeondTV’s “Lights, Camera, Vegas,” hosted by Rachel Smith. “I live in Nevada. I plan on making, hopefully, a film studio, and we want to build a shoe factory in Nevada.  “We want to create a lot of jobs, and a lot of excitement. Hollywood 2.0.” 

Summer tourism profitable despite nagging inflation 

New Jersey (Atlantic City) - Eric Conklin, The Press - Between Atlantic and Cape May counties, tourism officials say the summer season may not have been as hindered by inflation as was feared months ago. “I think the summer was strong,” said Michael Chait, president of the Greater Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce. Cape May County tourism director Diane Wieland said, “This year, as we went into it, we kind of predicted that things were not going to be as great, but it was still going to be good,” Wieland said. Wieland said beach badge sales and occupancy tax collections — two revenue streams the county uses to gauge its tourism economy — were slightly down from a year ago 2021 but remain strong.

Turning Stone plans biggest expansion since it opened 

New York (Indian gaming) - Don Cazentre, Post Standard - Turning Stone Resort Casino is about to embark on its largest expansion project since opening in 1993. The project, which will be completed over a period of several years, will nearly double the Oneida Indian Nation-owned resort’s convention and conference space, while also adding a new hotel, dining options and other amenities. 

Suppliers relocate resources to other Asian gaming markets 

Asia (Macau) - Tony Lai, Macau Business - Suppliers of casino gaming equipment with operations in Macau are relocating manpower and resources to other gaming jurisdictions in Asia like the Philippines and Singapore, Bloomberg reported.  The financial news agency quoted Jay Chun, chairman of the Macau Gaming Equipment Manufacturers Association, saying at least four multinational casino suppliers in Macau were doing so. Data from Bloomberg Intelligence said the gaming revenue of Macau only recovered to about 18 per cent of the 2019 level…the Philippines and Singapore recuperated back to 79 per cent and 68 per cent of the pre-pandemic levels respectively in the six months ended June 2022. 

Circa still faces $4.5M overlay in football contests 

Nevada (Las Vegas) - Todd Dewey, Review-Journal - Five days before Saturday’s entry deadline, Circa Sports is a long shot to meet its $6 million in guaranteed prize money for its $1,000-entry Circa Million IV contest.  The downtown sportsbook needs 6,000 entries to meet its guarantee, up from $4 million last year. “I have a better chance of making the NBA than we do of reaching the guarantee in the Circa Sports Million,” said 5-foot-8, 130-pound Circa sportsbook operations manager Jeff Benson. 

Flanker at Mandalay Bay could be Las Vegas’ next big sports bar 

Nevada (Las Vegas) - Brock Radke, The Weekly - RM Seafood at Mandalay Bay was a paragon of Strip dining for nearly 15 years…seemed like an impossible act to follow after closing in late 2018…“As the sports scene in Las Vegas has evolved with professional teams coming to town, sports bar and grill concepts have also evolved,” Christie said in a statement. “Flanker Kitchen and Sports Bar will strive to become the next generation leader by delivering an approachable premium dining, drinking and sports-viewing experience.” 

‘If you’re a gaming company, wouldn’t you want to be in Nevada?’ 

Nevada (Reno/Sparks) - Howard Stutz, The Independent - Century Casinos’ pending $195 million acquisition of the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks will rewrite the company’s corporate profile.  The regional casino operator, which began in Europe, doesn’t have what gaming observers consider a flagship resort…Northern Nevada provides Century an opportunity to prove its operational expertise in a destination market.  The Nugget has 1,382 hotel rooms, more than triple the combined hotel rooms Century has in its U.S. portfolio. 

Changes make Colorado an enticing casino market  

Colorado (Black Hawk/Cripple Creek) - Howard Stutz, The Nevada Independent - Nevada’s major gaming companies avoided Colorado for nearly two decades after casinos were legalized in the historic mining towns of Black Hawk, Central City and Cripple Creek.  Initially, bets in the state were limited to $5 and casinos were not open 24/7…There was zero interest by Las Vegas or Reno casino operators to enter Colorado. Expansion from tiny storefront casinos to mid-sized resorts has been taking place over the last few years. In Black Hawk, three properties account for more than 1,300 hotel rooms, roughly 85 percent of the total market. In Cripple Creek, a 300-room hotel-casino that is being built by Las Vegas-based Full House Resorts will double the market size when it opens next year. Las Vegas and Reno gaming companies committed millions of dollars to change the perception of the Colorado casino communities. 

Muckleshoot Tribe lifts final iron beam onto future hotel tower 

Washington (Indian gaming) - Robert Whale, The Reporter - To the beating of drums, dancing and the chanting of sacred songs, the Muckleshoot Tribe gathered to celebrate the topping-off ceremonies for its 18-story, 400-room, luxury hotel tower on Aug. 26.  Then, to a loud cheer, construction workers hoisted the final steel beam for the Muckleshoot Casino’s highly anticipated resort tower into place, and as it slid into place, the tribe celebrated the feat with fireworks. The event heralds the first major addition to the casino since the gaming establishment opened 27 years ago at 2402 Auburn Way S. 

Foxwoods’ new $85 million casino project will create “vibrant hub”, CEO says 

Connecticut (Indian gaming) - New London Day - Foxwoods Resort Casino’s plan to add a sixth gaming space is as much about rearranging the layout at North America’s biggest casino as it is expanding, Foxwoods’ top executive said Thursday. "The thought is to create a vibrant hub of activity in the heart of the property,” Jason Guyot, president and chief executive officer, said in a phone interview. "We’re spread out so far, from the Rainmaker Casino on one side to The Fox Tower on the other side, it’s difficult for guests to manage. There’s no better place to put it (a new gaming space) than Grand Pequot, the busiest section of the property ― the heartbeat of the property.” Guyot said the new gaming space, which will replace the Grand Ballroom, will have around 500 slots, including 175 high-limit machines, and 24 table games, including the usual mix of blackjack, roulette, craps and the like, as well as a 40-seat bar.  

Media Man Tourism: Casino News Media and Media Man Group: News from Las Vegas, Canada, Australia and across the globe

Media Man Tourism

Casino News Media and Media Man Group: News from Las Vegas, Canada, Australia and across the globe

Nevada records fourth highest July gaming win in history and second highest on the Strip

Nevada gaming surpassed $1 billion in revenue for the 17th consecutive month in July, marking the fourth highest monthly total in history at $1.31 billion and the second highest ever on the Las Vegas Strip. It took a record July 2021 to keep last month from surpassing that total. July 2022’s revenue decreased $43 million, a drop of 3.2%, from the $1.35 billion in July 2021, according to the Nevada Gaming Control Board.

IGT to pay $270 million to settle social gaming lawsuit

Global gaming giant IGT says it will pay almost US$270 million to settle a class action lawsuit brought against it by customers of its former social gaming subsidiary DoubleDown Interactive Co Ltd (DDI). The company said this week that it has reached an agreement in principle in the case of Benson v DoubleDown Interactive LLC, which was first launched in 2017 just a few months after IGT disposed of DDI in a hefty US$825 million deal.

Ontarians wager $4 billion (CAD), market produces $162 million gaming revenue in first quarter

The public can finally see numbers indicating how Ontario‘s new regulated iGaming and online sports betting market is performing since its launch on April 4. Ontarians wagered more than $4 billion (CAD) and the market produced $162 million total gaming revenue — from iCasino, online sports betting, and online poker — for the period of April 4-June 30, according to the first revenue report released by iGaming Ontario. (As of Aug. 30, $1 CAD is equal to $0.76 USD.)

California: Top elected officials voice opposition to Proposition 27

Though California Gov. Gavin Newsom deems himself neutral on Proposition 27, the digital sports betting ballot initiative with funding earmarked for homelessness and mental health programs, several other key elected officials voiced strong opposition to the measure Monday in describing it as a sham. “Proposition 27 exploits California’s tribes and our resources while making no real investments in California,” Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis said in a press release shared by the No on 27 campaign.

VSiN’s announces new fall lineup featuring Broadcast Hall of Famer Brent Musburger

VSiN’s new fall schedule that launches today will be headlined by a member of the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. “Countdown to Kickoff with Brent Musburger,” is the centerpiece of NFL football coverage on Sundays by the Las Vegas-based sports betting network owned by DraftKings. “The addition of this new programming and its industry leading talent will position VSiN to provide the growing number of sports bettors in the U.S. with expert betting insights and premium content,” said VSiN General Manager Len Mead in a statement.

Las Vegas: Circa, Able Baker Brewing partner to create ‘Vegas Vickie Neon Blonde’ beer

Las Vegas’ famous neon kicking cowgirl now has her own beer. Able Baker Brewing Company and Circa Resort & Casino in downtown Las Vegas have teamed up to create a custom blonde lager beer – the Vegas Vickie Neon Blonde. The new brew pays homage to the iconic kicking neon cowgirl, Vegas Vickie. According to a news release, the the 4.5% ABV beverage, which is only available at Circa, will be served in a 16 oz. can. The drink is described as a crisp and clean lager with more character and depth of flavor than the standard light beer.

Ainsworth returns to profit in FY22 as American markets boost recovery

Australian slot machine supplier Ainsworth Game Technology Limited (AGT) returned to profit in the financial year ended 30 June 2022, aided by improved performance in Latin America and the global-wide recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Profit After Tax reached AU$11.8 million (US$8.2 million), reversing an AU$53.4 million (US$37.1 million) loss in FY21 on the back of a 38% year-on-year increase in revenue to AU$220.2 million (US$152.9 million). This included revenue of AU$100.7 million (US$69.9 million) in the first six months of the financial year and AU$119.5 million (US$83.0 million) in the second half.

Media Man Tourism Blog: Hard Rock International Announces Key Leadership Appointments for Las Vegas and Atlantic City Properties

Hard Rock International Announces Key Leadership Appointments for Las Vegas and Atlantic City Properties

HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Aug. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Joe Lupo has been named President of the future Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, subject to regulatory approval of Hard Rock International's previously announced plans to purchase The Mirage Hotel & Casino from MGM Resorts International. Lupo will take over the role once the Nevada Gaming Commission licensing process has concluded. An Ohio native, Lupo has more than three decades of casino gaming experience. He was named President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in November 2018, after spending two successful years at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa.

Lupo's new position in Las Vegas was announced today by Hard Rock International Chairman Jim Allen, who is the driving force and vision behind Hard Rock International's purchase of The Mirage Hotel & Casino and the company's plan to construct an iconic Guitar Hotel on the Las Vegas strip.  Allen said Lupo is uniquely qualified to become the President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas.

"As president of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City for the past four years, Joe Lupo has achieved amazing results," said Allen. "Thanks to his dedication and expertise, financial results continue to outperform expectations, while our team members share an unmatched commitment to guest service and satisfaction. I am confident Joe Lupo will achieve even greater success at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas."

Lupo is no stranger to Las Vegas, having worked at various Boyd Gaming properties in Las Vegas and in Laughlin, Nevada, including the former Stardust Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, where he was the Director of Race and Sportsbook.  He is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

In Atlantic City, Anthony Faranca will be promoted to property President, subject to regulatory approval, effective September 1. A Philadelphia native, Faranca is a seasoned casino executive with extensive experience managing large gaming properties in several states including Maryland, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

"Anthony's deep knowledge of the Atlantic City and Northeast region is an invaluable asset to the company," said Jim Allen. "We are confident that Anthony will continue Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City's legacy of success and impactful leadership in the community."

Faranca began his casino career in Atlantic City as a Guest Services Manager and was promoted through the ranks to Regional Vice President of National Casino Marketing at the four Caesars Atlantic City properties. Faranca eventually relocated to Philadelphia and was appointed Vice President and General Manager of Parx Casino in 2009. Faranca then moved to Las Vegas to join Station Casinos and served as Vice President and General Manager for the Palms Casino Resort while also managing the company's enterprise-wide strategy for Table Game operations.

Faranca returned to the east coast in 2019 and joined the Cordish Companies as Vice President and General Manager of Live! Casino in Hanover, MD. In this role Faranca navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, launched a FanDuel Sportsbook, and opened a 5,000-seat event center.

About Hard Rock®:

Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock Hotels has been honored with Outstanding Guest Satisfaction and above for four consecutive years among Upper Upscale Hotels in J.D. Power's North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study and in 2022, the iconic brand was ranked as the number one brand for the second year in a row. HRI is the first privately-owned gaming company designated U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal for the second year. Hard Rock was also honored as one of Forbes' Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com

SOURCE Hard Rock International

Media Man Tourism Blog: High rollers still on the menu as Crown and Star lock horns

High rollers still on the menu as Crown and Star lock horns

After a decade of drama, Sydney finally has two casinos vying for its gambling dollar - separated by the barest sliver of a harbour.

Crown Resorts and Star Entertainment Group have been put through the regulatory ringer, many would say belatedly, for their shoddy approach to compliance. But suitably chastened, both are now ready to go toe-to-toe in their pursuit for punters.

However, as Crown Sydney’s marketing brochures highlight, the multibillion-dollar resort dreamed up by billionaire James Packer is staying true to its promise of focusing on high rollers. There is no enticement for the grind market, which is the staple of The Star and the poker machine dens across Sydney.

A $10,500 bar tab is the sort of spend needed to get a punter through Crown Sydney’s VIP gaming room doors at Barangaroo, which opened for the first time this week. This figure is based on Crown’s rewards program for Barangaroo which, ironically, does not specify how much gambling is needed to reach the Gold and Platinum status needed to gain entry to its gaming facilities.

One thing is clear, Crown clearly does not have to worry about the “RSL on steroids” tag, which dogged The Star for years.

Crown, under the new ownership of US private equity group Blackstone, has also remained faithful to Packer’s mantra that the gaming operation - which was originally due to open alongside the hotel in December 2020 - remains central to the economic feasibility of the entire resort.

“Crown Sydney is quite a unique facility and integrated resort. I think that integrated nature will also extend itself to the integrated nature of income,” Crown Sydney chief executive Simon McGrath said.

“It’s got a very good balance of gaming, hospitality, restaurants, bars and spas and other facilities. And I think that’s really important.”

Barangaroo needs to be firing on all cylinders. Blackstone paid $8.9 billion for the entire Crown operation in Australia, a price that took the casino operator back to a valuation that pre-dated the scandals and a regulatory nightmare that has seen it deemed unfit to hold a casino licence in all three states in which it operates.

The inquiries were triggered by a series of reports by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and 60 Minutes in 2019 that examined Crown’s irresponsible treatment of problem gamblers and its relationship with high-roller “junket” operators linked to powerful Asian criminal gangs.

The regulatory upheaval, which is still impacting both Crown and Star, is another unwelcome juggle for the newly opened facility.

“First, and foremost, we’ve got to make sure that we deliver safe and responsible gaming, and then we deliver the curated experience of luxury service,” McGrath says. “I think the combination of both those will give us a strong and sustainable business going forward.”

Also making life tougher is the fact that the disgraced junket operators, which did the dirty work of attracting Chinese high rollers, and extracting the cash when they lost - for a significant fee - have been banned.

But Crown’s new operation offered a not-so-subtle hint that Chinese gamblers are still on the radar with its opening date 08.08.22: eight is the luckiest number in Chinese culture with its traditional association with wealth.

Whether it succeeds in wooing them will be clearer in October when its exclusive high-roller floor opens.

To enter the hallways of Barangaroo’s Mahogany room - which houses 30 private salons for the serious high-rollers that Crown once enticed with its own private jets - a minimum spend of $45,000 across its bars, restaurants and hotel is needed to attain the Platinum status necessary for entry. Once again, Crown’s brochures do not specify the level of gambling spend needed for Platinum status.

Of course, the serious high rollers will be offered the Black tier membership which is by invite only.

Market analysts no longer track Crown as it is a private company, but in December last year, Macquarie forecast that Barangaroo could end up with 35 per cent of Sydney’s tables-based gambling market by the 2025 financial year. This is expected to be worth $923 million. Macquarie forecast VIP turnover of $10 billion by 2025.

Meanwhile, analyst reports focused on the ASX-listed Star following a July market update highlighted that poker machine and non-gambling revenue, across its Sydney and Queensland casinos, have soared above pre-COVID levels. Table gaming revenue, which is all Crown is relying on in Sydney, remains subdued.

Crown will have 160 tables, plus 66 electronic tables operating across the Crystal Room and 30 private salons on the Mahogany floor. While Crown Sydney will ensure Star’s table gaming revenue does not recover in Sydney, Star does have a secret weapon that Crown cannot rely on: the grind market.

“In NSW, we note that Club electronic gaming machine (EGM) data to May-22 is consistent with Queensland, with profit per EGM running at 129 per cent of pre-COVIDlevels,” a report from Goldman Sachs said last month.

And as JP Morgan analyst Don Carducci pointed out in a recent research note, The Star has a lot at stake as it extracts roughly $115 million in EGM, or slot, revenue from its top-tier gamblers on top of what it gets from their table-based gaming.

“The slot support for Star cannot be overstated; approximately one-third of Sydney (VIP) revenues are linked to slot play,” he said.

A fund manager who watches the casino market closely, says Crown has had the edge with high rollers in Melbourne due to the assets it had at its disposal including golf, horse racing and the Grand Prix.

“They always attracted that tier one player and probably didn’t have to do as much as what Star needed to do to attract those players to this market,” the fund manager, who did not wish to be identified due to the sensitivities of the high roller business, said.

But high roller rooms are not where the big money is made.

“Crown had the advantage on that part of the business, but it’s worth remembering. It’s not the best part of the business,” he said.

“The grind, that’s where you make your margin. That’s 80 per cent of your profit.”

Media Man Tourism: Crown’s Sydney casino to open next month

Crown’s Sydney casino to open next month

The Crown gaming empire’s flagship skyscraper on Sydney Harbour will open its luxury casino in two weeks.

“The doors to Australia’s only VIP casino will begin opening to members and guests from 08.08.2022,” Crown said in a statement on Monday.

Crown had been prevented from opening the casino in its $2.2 billion dining and hotel tower in Barangaroo for more than a year.

The opening was delayed and then blocked after an inquiry led by former Supreme Court judge Patricia Bergin found Crown was not fit to operate a casino.

Last month the troubled gambling behemoth was given approval by the NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority for the members-only gaming facilities inside the upscale Barangaroo complex to finally open on a conditional basis.

The conditional period, which will run for 18 to 24 months, will allow the authority to monitor changes made at Crown Sydney and ensure they are “embedded” in the business.

“The opening of our gaming operations at Crown Sydney is a defining moment for Crown, and the culmination of months of hard work from our dedicated team,” Crown Sydney CEO Simon McGrath said.

“The entire team at Crown Sydney has been preparing for this moment for a long time and we felt the symbolism of the 08.08 date represented ideal timing to open our doors.”

The number eight is believed to be the luckiest number in China because eight is associated with wealth.

LGA chair Philip Crawford said last month the Bergin inquiry highlighted the scale and scope of issues to be remedied by Crown, with potentially billions of dollars having been laundered through its casinos.

“With a complete clean-out of the board and senior executive, Crown has made significant progress and has agreed to ongoing work to regain its casino licence,” he said in a statement.

Crown says its gaming operations are set “over two luxurious VIP gaming floors – Crystal Room and Mahogany Room – with 12 additional exclusive private Sky Salons located on levels 28 and 29”.

The facilities accommodate approximately 160 gaming tables and 70 electronic table games.

The Crystal Room gaming floor will open on day one, with Mahogany Room set to open at a later date.

“We are committed to delivering a safe and responsible gaming environment for all, and Crown Sydney’s restricted gaming facility has been designed with the highest levels of governance and compliance,” Mr McGrath said.

All patrons are required to be a member or guest of a member and undergo comprehensive checks.

“The gaming floors at Crown Sydney set a new standard in luxury and elegance,” Mr McGrath said.

The once-listed Crown is being taken private by US investment firm Blackstone after a successful $8.9 billion takeover was ticked off last month.

Media Man Tourism Blog: Blackstone gets green light to operate Crown Sydney Casino

Blackstone gets green light to operate Crown Sydney Casino

The NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority has approved funds manager Blackstone’s suitability to hold a casino licence in NSW, paving the way for the company to become the operator of Crown Sydney casino.

The NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority has approved funds manager Blackstone’s suitability to hold a casino licence in NSW, paving the way for the company to become the operator of Crown Sydney casino. 

Authority Chairperson Philip Crawford said Blackstone had been subject to an extensive probity assessment that examined its capacity to address the risks and issues of concern identified in the Bergin Report.

“The probity assessment has also resulted in certain persons being approved to become “close associates” of Crown Sydney,” Mr Crawford said.

“These approvals are a key step in the Authority’s ongoing work to ensure Crown Sydney is able to fully meet its undertakings for major operational, governance and structural reforms.

“As the prospective owner of Crown Resorts, Blackstone has been required to demonstrate the highest standards of probity as well as a commitment to deliver the full suite of operational changes recommended by the Bergin Inquiry.

“This commitment is vital to ensure Crown Sydney is free from criminal influence and properly manages the risks of harm associated with casino activities.” 

The Authority’s regulatory approvals follow a meeting of Crown shareholders on 20 May that voted overwhelmingly to accept Blackstone’s takeover offer. 

Mr Crawford said Blackstone has also been required to meet certain conditions under a private equity model of ownership.

“These approvals and conditions are dependent on Blackstone gaining Federal Court approval for its takeover of Crown, as well as the necessary regulatory approvals from Victorian and Western Australia regulators, Mr Crawford said.  

“Separately, the Authority has worked closely with Crown on plans for a conditional opening of gaming at Crown Sydney  

 “This would allow the Authority to monitor the implementation by Crown of  its obligations under revised internal control measures.”

Media Man Tourism Blog: US Casinos Had Best Month Ever in March, Winning $5.3B

US Casinos Had Best Month Ever in March, Winning $5.3B

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) — Inflation may be soaring, supply chains remain snarled and the coronavirus just won’t go away, but America’s casinos are humming right along, recording the best month in their history in March.

The American Gaming Association, the gambling industry’s national trade group, said Wednesday that U.S. commercial casinos won more than $5.3 billion from gamblers in March, the best single-month total ever. The previous record month was July 2021 at $4.92 billion.

The casinos collectively also had their best first quarter ever, falling just short of the $14.35 billion they won from gamblers in the fourth quarter of last year, which was the highest three-month period in history.

Three states set quarterly revenue records to start this year: Arkansas ($147.4 million); Florida ($182 million), and New York ($996.6 million).

The numbers do not include tribal casinos, which report their income separately and are expected to report similarly positive results.

But while the national casino economy is doing well, there are pockets of sluggishness such as Atlantic City, where in-person casino revenue has not yet rebounded to pre-pandemic levels.

“Consumers continue to seek out gaming’s entertainment options in record numbers,” said Bill Miller, the association’s president and CEO. He said the strong performance to start 2022 came ”despite continued headwinds from supply chain constraints, labor shortages and the impact of soaring inflation.”

The trade group also released its annual State of the States report on Wednesday, examining gambling’s performance across the country.

As previously reported, nationwide casino revenue set an all-time high in 2021 at $53.03 billion, up 21% from the previous best year, 2019, before the coronavirus pandemic hit.

But the report includes new details, including that commercial casinos paid a record $11.69 billion in direct gambling tax revenue to state and local governments in 2021. That’s an increase of 75% from 2020 and 15 percent from 2019. This does not include the billions more paid in income, sales and other taxes, the association said.

It also ranked the largest casino markets in the U.S. in terms of revenue for 2021:

The Las Vegas Strip is first at $7.05 billion, followed by: Atlantic City ($2.57 billion); the Chicago area ($2.01 billion); Baltimore-Washington D.C. ($2 billion); the Gulf Coast ($1.61 billion); New York City ($1.46 billion); Philadelphia ($1.40 billion); Detroit ($1.29 billion); St. Louis ($1.03 billion); and the Boulder Strip in Nevada ($967 million).

The association divides most of Pennsylvania’s casinos into three separate markets: Philadelphia, the Poconos and Pittsburgh. Their combined revenue of nearly $2.88 billion would make them the second largest market in the country if judged as a single entity. It also counts downtown Las Vegas, and its $731 million in revenue, as a separate market.

Seven additional states legalized sports betting and two more added internet gambling in 2021.

The group reported many states saw gamblers spending more in casinos while visiting them in lower numbers compared to pre-pandemic 2019.

The average age of a casino patron last year was 43 1/2, compared to 49 1/2 in 2019.

Americans bet $57.7 billion on sports last year, more than twice the amount from 2020. That generated $4.33 billion in revenue, an increase of nearly 180% over 2020.

Internet gambling revenue reached $3.71 billion last year, and three states — New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan — each won more than $1 billion online. West Virginia’s internet gambling market reached $60.9 million in revenue in its first full year of operation, while Connecticut’s two internet casinos reported combined revenue of $47.6 million after launching in October.

Media Man Tourism: Bally's River West Resort - Casino in Chicago, USA?

Bally's River West Resort - Casino in Chicago, USA?

Rhode Island-based Bally's appears to be the last casino up for consideration in the Windy City of Chicago.

Alderman Pat Dowell announced on Monday she "cannot support” Hard Rock International’s plan to open a casino as part of the proposed mega-development in her ward, citing neighbors’ fears over crime and the potential for overcrowding.

Bally's is the only proposal left on the table.  That company is looking to develop a casino resort in the River West section of the city.  The alderman there has not come out against a gambling site in the ward.

City leaders are looking to tap revenue from the eventual casino to fund Chicago's pension obligations.

“I believe a casino will support the growth and prosperity of the City by adding a sought-after destination amenity to Chicago’s already world-class tourism and hospitality offerings,” Dowell wrote in her statement. “I know first-hand how vital a casino is to the City’s bottom line. The revenues from a Chicago casino will go a long way towards ensuring we meet our obligations to the Police and Fire pension funds.”

But she added that city leaders must balance the “positive aspects of each casino proposal” against “the needs and wishes of the existing community.”

“The Hard Rock Casino at ONE Central would be dropped into an existing, well-established family community in the Prairie District of Chicago’s South Loop,” Dowell wrote. “Because of that, I have concerns about the density of the Hard Rock Casino proposal.”

Website Network

Media Man Group

Casino News Media

Global Gaming Directory

Media Man News

Media Man Tourism Blog: Vegas' Circa Resort & Casino to Debut 35,000 Square Feet of Meeting and Convention Space

Vegas' Circa Resort & Casino to Debut 35,000 Square Feet of Meeting and Convention Space

LAS VEGAS (March 22, 2022) – Circa Resort & Casino, downtown Las Vegas’ first new resort in four decades, will debut 35,000 square feet of meeting and convention space this September. When the property opened in late 2020, it changed the downtown landscape with unmatched amenities and architecture. The opening of its new event space marks the next phase in Circa’s evolution and delivers a completely new option for planners seeking an upscale and lively Las Vegas experience off the Strip.

“As meetings and conventions make their grand return to Las Vegas, we’re excited to introduce our stunning new event spaces to meet this moment,” said Derek Stevens, CEO of Circa. “Since our opening, we have been working tirelessly to meet this next phase of growth and provide a remarkable experience for meeting planners and attendees. At our core, we love to throw a great event, and we’ve thought through every detail to help you do that on any scale, with our resort as your backdrop.

Available to book immediately at the downtown Las Vegas casino-resort, the property will offer groups top-tier audio and visual capabilities, customizable spaces for groups of up to 1,000 guests and top-tier customer services. For an overview of Circa’s meeting and event spaces, click here. 

Circa’s meeting and convention offerings will feature a ballroom, breakout rooms and banquet space, adjacent pre-function space and a robust 1,600-square-foot outdoor terrace. Outfitted to complement Circa’s mid-century, art deco and modern design motifs, the spaces were designed by JCJ Architecture with the original design concept from Steelman Partners.  

Advanced Technology

Circa’s spaces will be equipped with the latest technology for easy, on-the-spot functionality. Special environmental measures have been put in place and include LED lighting and adaptive, intelligent controlled HVAC systems that adjust temperatures for changing ecosystems.

The facilities also will be home to state-of-the-art audio and visual capabilities and will include 16K LU laser projectors, retractable screens, audio tie lines, patchable ethernet tie lines, strands of patchable single mode fiber in pairs on LC connectors, quad outlets, LED screens and more.

Customizable Meeting Spaces

With adaptability and customization in mind, all spaces have been planned for multiple configurations and combination seating to exceed meeting planners’ needs. In continuation of Circa’s tradition of honoring Las Vegas’s history, each of the five main meeting spaces are named after iconic Las Vegas motels from past eras:

Galaxy: The largest of Circa’s meeting spaces, Galaxy shares its name with the short-lived Galaxy Motel. Four adjoining meeting rooms will boast 14,456 square feet of space and a 1,677-square-foot outdoor terrace overlooking the city. The Galaxy Ballroom was designed to be able to host a multitude of events with a large LED screen, built in audio-visual capabilities, full rigging and a partition wall that opens the ballroom to the pre-function spaces. 

Starlite: Opened in the 1950s and still operating today, Starlite became popular due to its star-themed rooms during the height of the Space Age. This space includes 3,572 square feet of space across three rooms and includes built in audio-visual, full rigging and access to pre-function spaces.

Carousel: Circa sits on the site formerly home to the Carousel, a casino where guests could dine on an assortment of delicacies for 96 cents. The meeting spaces offer 1,651 square feet across three rooms and feature built in audio-visual and access to pre-function spaces.

Ambassador: Beginning as apartments in the 1930s and remaining open as a motel through 2007, the Ambassador vintage sign can still be seen at downtown Las Vegas’ Life is Beautiful festival. Circa’s two Ambassador meeting spaces can be booked together for a total of 1,055 square feet with built in audio-visual and access to pre-function spaces.

La Concha: Described as “The Jetsons meets coffee shop,” La Concha Motel was built on a shoestring budget and remained open for 45 years. Circa’s La Concha room features 920 square feet of space and has built in audio-visual capabilities and access to pre-function spaces.

Bonanza Office: The Bonanza Office is named after the iconic Bonanza Casino, which is now Bally’s on The Strip. The hard-walled office space features 192 square feet of private space.

Sasha Lee, Circa’s Director of Sales, said, “In addition to our new meeting spaces, planners can book events throughout the resort in creative spaces including the world’s largest sportsbook; a year-round pool amphitheater; restaurants from celebrated chefs and much more. We’ve worked to create a unique meetings experience, and our team of experts will help you create an event destination that allows companies to work hard, and later, play hard.”

World-Class Amenities

Meeting options outside the event space include Circa’s hotel suites, 60th floor cocktail lounge, restaurants, and entertainment areas:

Suite Life: Standing at 458 ft. tall and 35 stories high, Circa’s hotel tower is the tallest building north of the Las Vegas Strip, affording breathtaking views of the Las Vegas Valley and surrounding mountains. With design elements that pay homage to vintage Vegas, Circa’s rooms range from 439 to 1,830 square feet.

Founder’s Suite: The largest of the rooms, the Founder’s Suite, boasts 1,830 square feet with two bedrooms, living room, dining area, bar, strip view and is a unique meeting option within Circa’s collection.

Hospitality Suite: Whether closing a deal or prepping for meetings, the Hospitality Suites provide 1,612 square feet of space for a multitude of functions and features a large dining table, marble bar, and living rooms with a variety of seating options.

Legacy Club: Sitting sky-high on the 60th floor of Circa’s hotel tower, the indoor/outdoor 9,330-square-foot Legacy Club delivers extraordinary 360-degree views of Las Vegas and is complemented by an upscale lounge, expansive outdoor terrace with fire pits and iconic artwork. The venue can hold 200 seated or 400 standing guests and can host private and semi-private events.

Vegas Vickie Cocktail Lounge: Circa’s elevated lobby cocktail lounge, Vegas Vickie’s, surrounds the iconic neon kicking cowgirl sign herself. The 130-person-capacity space is perfect for cocktail-only receptions.

World’s Largest Sportsbook: Circa is home to the world’s largest sportsbook, boasting a 78-million-pixel screen capable of playing up to 19 games at once. The space has a 1,000-person viewing capacity, 350 stadium seating capacity and ideal for sports betting groups.

Stadium Swim: The country’s largest pool destination for sports fans, Stadium Swim, is open year-round and features a 143-foot diagonal screen that plays the day’s biggest games. The pool amphitheater can be rented for semi-private events or full buyouts for groups of 4,000.  

Restaurants: Circa offers five unique new-to-Vegas dining experiences from renowned chefs and restaurateurs are ideal for dining experiences before, after or during meetings:

Barry’s Downtown Prime, the first downtown venture from Chef Barry S. Dakake features 17,000 square feet of space and can host up to 350 guests. The restaurant also can customize experiences with floral and AV and has a floor plan that can be secluded or cater to a large gathering;

8 East, the first pan-Asian restaurant from Chef Dan Coughlin is home to a private dining area for 16 guests and features a cutting-edge take on Pan-Asian cuisine;

Project BBQ by Chef Rex Bernales, is the first permanent food truck and Carolina barbecue joint on the Fremont Street Experience and features a front yard in the heart of downtown’s entertainment scene that can accommodate 50 people;

Victory Burger & Wings Co. from American Coney Island’s Chris Sotiropoulos and Grace Keros, features a secluded overlook for 15 people with views of the world’s largest sportsbook. Their menu boasts mouthwatering burgers, wings and appetizers; and

Saginaw’s Delicatessen from Detroit restaurateur Paul Saginaw is home to a deli serving up deli favorites, all-day breakfast and world-famous sandwiches so big you’ll need two hands to eat them.  

A full kitchen will be dedicated to Circa’s convention space, serving up delectable food and beverage experiences to elevate any event into an unforgettable occasion. For more information or to book a meeting, visit circalasvegas.com. To view the sales kit, click here.

Media Man Tourism Blog: Investments in New Projects on Tap for 2022 in Atlantic City

Investments in New Projects on Tap for 2022 in Atlantic City

Atlantic City’s casinos are forging ahead with ambitious new projects in 2022, even as the coronavirus pandemic continues to make it harder to do business.

And non-casino projects involving family entertainment, education and the offshore wind industry will take flight in the new year.

But challenges lurk, as well.

In-person gambling revenue at seven of the nine casinos is down compared with 2019, before the pandemic hit. Sports betting and internet gambling revenue has filled some of the gap, but that money must be shared with third parties, including technology platforms and sports books, and is not solely for the casinos to keep.

A law passed signed by Gov. Phil Murphy in December gives the casinos some relief from big increases in payments they were due to pay to Atlantic City, Atlantic County and the schools system in lieu of property taxes.

A big unknown is how long and how seriously the COVID19 pandemic, and particularly the fast-spreading omicron variant, will affect customers’ willingness to come out and gamble in person in 2022.

And a big challenge is right around the corner when New York begins allowing people to bet on phones or other mobile devices anywhere in the state, as soon as January but almost certainly in time for the Super Bowl in February.

Gambling industry executives and analysts expect New Jersey to lose at least 20% of its sports betting volume as New York residents who formerly had to cross over into New Jersey to bet will be able to do it at or close to home.

Mark Giannantonio, president of Resorts casino, said he is “tremendously optimistic for a great year” in 2022.

Starting in February, Resorts is renovating its rooftop pool, adding a retractable roof to enable it to be used year-round. Resorts also is investing $5 million into new table games and slot machines, remodeling its high-limit slots area, and creating a new VIP Asian-themed room.

The Ocean Casino Resort plans to begin a $75 million project in spring or summer to finish 12 floors of hotel rooms that were never completed when the casino first opened as Revel in 2012.

Caesars casino will start work in 2022 on a new theater and resident show due to open in the first quarter of 2023. The project will incorporate the facade of the former Warner Theatre from 1929, which is currently part of the casino’s exterior facing the Boardwalk.

Also planned for Caesars in 2022 is a new restaurant opened by a hospitality company involving actor Robert De Niro that also will renovate hotel rooms there. Caesars Entertainment is partnering with Nobu Hospitality for a project to be called Nobu Hotel Atlantic City.

Bally’s will unveil 750 renovated hotel rooms, a redone hotel lobby and bar, and an indoor-outdoor entertainment venue in 2022.

A $100 million indoor water park to be built next to the former Showboat casino, which now operates as a nongambling hotel, plans a ground breaking for early 2022.

Atlantic City will host a three-day country music concert on the beach in August headlined by Luke Bryan and Morgan Wallen.

Construction is to begin in 2022 on a new ShopRite supermarket in Atlantic City, designed to end the city’s status as a “food desert” without a major supermarket. The project should open in 2023.

Stockton University hopes to complete a new student residence hall in the city in 2022.

Atlantic City will play a big role in the burgeoning offshore wind energy industry. Atlantic Cape Community College plans to open a wind energy workforce training center on its city campus in the fall, and wind developer Orsted hopes to start work in 2022 on a maintenance and operations center in Atlantic City to support its offshore wind projects in the area.

And a plan that has gotten little attention outside of Atlantic City but which will affect most visitors to the city is due to begin in 2022.

The city plans to reduce Atlantic Avenue, one of its two main north-south thoroughfares, from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction, in the name of pedestrian safety.

But many residents and businesses oppose the plan, predicting that traffic that is already difficult to navigate under current conditions will become even worse with only one lane in each direction.

(AP)