The European Casino Association’s (ECA) annual Casino Industry Forum in Slovenia saw a no-holds-barred discussion among key industry stakeholders about the future of the land-based gaming sector.
Tough questions asked included whether casinos will be dead in 10 years and, conversely, the impact of online gaming trends in the next generation of casino activity.
The latest edition of the conference was hosted at the HIT hotel and casino in Nova Gorica.
An ‘invaluable platform’
“The ECA Casino Industry Forum 2024 has once again proven to be an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration,” said Erwin van Lambaart, the trade association’s chairman.
“The insights shared here, particularly regarding AI, regulatory developments and the challenges faced by our industry, will undoubtedly shape the future of European casinos.
“We are grateful to HIT Universe of Fun for hosting this milestone event and for their exceptional hospitality at the Perla and Park Entertainment Centres.
“Their warm welcome and seamless organisation have significantly contributed to the success of our forum.
“We look forward to working together to overcome regulatory hurdles and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.”
Will casinos be dead in 10 years?
That was a question asked by John Purcell, the CEO of DigiWheel. He presented a talk titled The Land Based Casino of Tomorrow: Embracing Technology to Thrive.
His presentation challenged current casino practices and highlighted how online gaming trends are likely to shape the casinos of the future.
Elsewhere, a panel of suppliers such as International Game Technology (IGT), Light & Wonder and Video Tracking Solutions discussed the topic of innovating the casino floor.
The talk centred on how AI, machine learning and data analytics can be integrated into casino products to improve player engagement, optimise operations and enhance responsible gaming initiatives.
The fun economy
The forum was a chance for casino operators who have not yet tapped into the move towards entertainment and leisure sectors to do so.
Bo Bernhard, vice president of economic development at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, delivered a virtual keynote on the (Top) Secrets of the Fun Economy.
Insights were also shared on European Union’s AI Act and AI Ethical Rules.
Sandi Brataševec, president of the board of HIT, said: “The ECA Casino Industry Forum is undoubtedly one of the key moments in the year that closely connects various stakeholder’s interests and ambitions in the European casino industry.
“It was an honour for the HIT company to host this prestigious event as we celebrate our 40th anniversary in the gaming industry.
“We would like to sincerely thank the organisers, speakers and all participants whose remarkable contributions made this event a success. Your dedication and commitment to the advancement of the casino industry are truly commendable.
“As ECA members we look forward to continuing our collaboration in order to ensure the development of a responsible, innovative and sustainable future for the European casino industry.”
