Given the current economic climate, standing still “is not an option,” European Casino Association chairman Ron Goudsmit said.
The ongoing economic crisis in Europe is naturally having a negative impact upon the casino industry. This, combined with high levels of taxation, smoking bans and increased competition from gaming halls and igaming, means operators must continue to find ways of enhancing their businesses.
“I think everyone is expecting 2012 to be a another difficult year economically,” Goudsmit said. “The general feeling is that we won’t get out of the recession before the end of the year.”
However, to ensure they continue to strengthen their businesses, operators will take the opportunity this week to bring new games, systems and other innovative solutions to their gaming floors, he said.
“When you talk about the prospects for this year’s show, I think operators will make investments despite the economic downturn,” Goudsmit remarked. “Operators do everything they can to improve their businesses and, in order to improve their businesses, they will need new products as well.
“Standing still is not an option in this climate because you risk being left behind.”
