While traditional land-based casinos remain vital, integrating digital experiences is essential for growth. Te challenge lies in balancing the needs of long-time patrons with the expectations of tech-savvy players. By blending technology with human interaction, the gaming industry can remain competitive within the broader ‘fun economy,’ where gaming competes with other leisure activities for consumer attention.
In a world driven by data, adaptability and innovation will define the future of gaming. Te question isn’t whether to embrace digital transformation—it’s how quickly and effectively it can be implemented.
SUPPLIER PANEL NEXT-GENERATION CASINO TECHNOLOGIES
A panel of industry suppliers, including representatives from Novomatic, IGT, Tronius, Light & Wonder and Video Tracking Solutions, discussed ‘Innovating the Casino Floor.’ Te session explored the integration of AI, machine learning, and data analytics into casino products, highlighting advancements in player engagement, operational optimisation, and responsible gaming initiatives.
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS THE FUN ECONOMY AND CASINO OPERATIONS
John Purcell, CEO of DigiWheel, presented: ‘Te Land Based Casino of Tomorrow: Embracing Technology to Trive.’ With over three decades of experience in the gambling sector, Purcell shared insights on how casinos can leverage emerging technologies to enhance their operations and customer experience. Purcell captivated the audience with the provocative question: ‘Will casinos be dead in 10 years?’ His presentation challenged current casino practices and highlighted new trends, including those emerging from online gaming that are likely to shape the casino of the future. Purcell’s talk encouraged industry leaders to rethink their strategies and embrace innovation to remain competitive in an evolving landscape. Key strategies for success include:
Enhanced Customer Engagement: Companion apps serve as a virtual casino, providing interactive touchpoints, personalised rewards, and consistent connectivity. Experience-Driven Offerings: Augmented reality, LED-based tables, and live-hosted events transform gaming into an immersive activity. Operational Efficiency: Leveraging AI for floor management, dynamic pricing, and anomaly detection optimises revenue while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Bo Bernhard, Vice President of Economic Development at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, delivered a virtual keynote on ‘Te (Top) Secrets of the Fun Economy.’ His presentation, a riff on his Ted Talk, explored how the future economic landscape is increasingly favouring entertainment and leisure sectors, providing actionable insights for casino operators to align with these trends.
Bo described that in 2019 tourism accounted for an astounding 10 per cent of the global economy - a remarkable shift in human history, where mobility and leisure were historically scarce. By 2024, this figure had surpassed 11 per cent, signalling the continued rise of the ‘fun economy,’ which encompasses tourism, sports, and entertainment. Collectively, this sector now constitutes 14 per cent of global economic activity, dwarfing industries like pharmaceuticals, fashion, and even automobiles.
Te expansion of the global middle class has been a key driver. For the first time, 50 per cent of the world's population is now middle class or wealthier, with predictions of this figure reaching two-thirds by 2030. As individuals move beyond
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