Tempting Back Casino Customers

The unthinkable is true - gambling isn't recession proof. The resilient industry, a defiant recessionary opponent is starting to show cracks as the global crisis bears down on its customer base. With gamblers across the United States feeling the pinch of the global crisis, they are increasingly less likely to spend the same quantity of their hard-earned money on gambling activities.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board reported drops in gambling activity as much as 22% from the same time a year ago. Suffering most is the world famous Las Vegas Strip. But this is a nationwide problem also being reported in New Jersey and Washington state (30% drop). Surprisingly for casinos in Vegas, this is the tenth straight monthly decline.

Innovative suggestions
Industry pundits are calling to drop the gambling age from 21 to 18 in Nevada. While other casinos are offering locals free accommodation and entrance to shows and extravaganzas simply to entice them into gambling at their casinos. What is true is that people are coming less frequently and spending less per visit than before.

Layoffs and streamlining
Black Gaming LLC of Nevada suffered a steep 28% decline in third quarter revenues - alongside similar declines in multiple casinos - and they have laid off 350 employees at the Oasis. This is now an industry phenomenon and it looks set to continue until a global upturn starts to get underway. Whether it's called downsizing or laying folks off, it has the same result - a loss of confidence in the economy and the casinos' ability to survive the mayhem.

Golden pot
With the adversity comes opportunity for many gamblers. Big stakes gamblers will be lured by Trump Marina Hotel Casino's $1 million blackjack challenge scheduled for January 3 2009. Big bargains for eager gamblers still exist - they're ready to be snatched up by whoever's game!