Casino gambling has become a popular pastime in Pennsylvania with many brick-and-mortar casino operators and the recent move online. Pennsylvania’s land-based facilities are divided into tribal casinos on Native American reservations and retail casinos. In recent months, retail casinos have seen strong growth and performance, contributing significantly to October’s record highs in monthly gambling revenue.
Online offerings
The introduction of the real money online casino was the industry’s saving grace during the worst months of Covid when people were reluctant to visit public places and strict health guidelines governed access and operations. In October, online slots revenues resulted in more than $70 million, with table games recording just over $32 million. Online sports betting netted operators $23.5 million. This is a slight decrease from $36.7 million in 2020 but is attributed to sports bettors visiting land-based facilities now that it is safer. $3.7 million contributed to these record revenues, netted from fantasy sports, an emerging betting market.
Return to brick-and-mortar facilities
Pennsylvania is America’s third most vaccinated state, where 73% of adults have received their shots. People are flocking to physical casinos after many months of avoiding them. They feel safer about venturing out and returning to the activities they loved before the pandemic hit, believing they will have a visit incorporating great entertainment, delectable dining choices, and a chance to master the art of how to win more money.
Nevertheless, casinos still operate under strict public health regulations as reported Covid cases in Pennsylvania remain above the national average. Despite these strict protocols and preventive measures, more visitors descend on Pennsylvania’s casinos in search of a good time, and a welcome distraction from the stresses Covid brought upon them.
An optimistic US economic forecast also influences people to return to their favorite pastime as the jobs market is recovering from last year’s devastation that saw millions claiming unemployment. Current economic stimulus programs have led to a renewed sense of optimism among Americans about the country’s future as a financial powerhouse.
The winners
Pennsylvania’s top-performing casino in October 2021 included Parx, with revenue numbers sitting at $57.3 million, and Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course hot on its heels with $57 million. The Pennsylvania government is delighted as taxes on these profits line its coffers with much-needed funds. State governor Tom says that his government has no intention of restricting businesses in their attempt to return to pre-pandemic operations.
