Comments from Jane Bokunewicz, coordinator of the Levenson Institute for Gaming, Hospitality and Tourism at Stockton University, on July gaming numbers released by the Division of Gaming Enforcement today:

“Even with public health precautions in place, there was great concern that patrons would not yet feel safe visiting the casinos in person, and there would be an extended ‘COVID drag’ on the industry.

Although total casino win for July was down 46.8% below last year, a win of $147,440,622 shows that a significant number of gamblers were willing to play in person.

Whether this recovery could continue and grow will likely depend on the status of COVID-19 infection rates in the tri-state area and consumer confidence in industry safety measures.

 Internet gaming and sports wagering continued to show strong growth for casino operators, both increasing more than 100% over July 2019.  Total casino industry gaming revenue (includes internet gaming win, sports wagering revenue and casino win) is only down 23.1% compared to July 2019, despite a 46.8% decline in land-based casino revenue. Internet gaming and sports wagering are making significant contributions to property revenue, and will play an important role in the ‘new normal’ for casino operators.

Properties continue to adapt to the current situation, including restrictions on indoor dining and other resort amenities, by creating new experiences (ex. Outdoor dining establishments, food trucks) for patrons. When the third quarter 2020 results are released in November, it will be interesting to see how effective these adaptations have been in recapturing non-gaming revenue for the industry.”