Page 4 - MGHA Annual Report, 2020

From indicators around the state, the Mississippi gaming industry enjoyed a prosperous and successful 2019. After the successful rollout of sports wagering
in August 2018, industry operators from across the Magnolia state have reported increased visitation and new growth. In fact, sports wagers in the state’s 26 licensed casinos were up an astounding 46% in October 2019 versus the same period last year.
Things are certainly looking positive, as the year-to- date wagering handle is now above $240 million and
the football betting season is in full swing. Numbers have continued to increase, as regional professional
and college teams provide excitement for local bettors supporting their favorite sports icons. This enthusiasm and renewed guest interest has translated into an almost 4% increase in statewide gaming revenues.
This comes at an opportune time as many casinos around the state have held elaborate celebrations to mark their 25th anniversary. Over the past three decades, gaming has grown into the robust industry it is today with a presence in almost every corner of Mississippi.
As an industry, we have contributed nearly $1 billion annually to local governments and more than $4 billion in total economic impact across the state. With more than 37,000 team members across 29 casino properties, from the Gulf Coast to the Delta, our industry can proudly boast a devoted workforce that has built world-class entertainment experiences.
To continue our success, we must keep our eye to the future and the challenges that lie ahead of us. Growing competition, the Millennial customer, and the rapid advancement of new technology — iGaming/mobile sports betting and cashless wagering — represent a call
to action for greater innovation and forward thinking. Mississippi’s early adoption of sports wagering made our state a ground breaker and laid the foundation for a successful 2019. As an industry, we need to work with state regulators to position Mississippi to take advantage of the next wave of opportunities or we will be looking back wishing for what could have been.
Our state has always been on the forefront of change in our industry and with the continued foresight of state of cials and the unique spirit of collaboration that exists between the Mississippi Gaming Commission and industry leaders, I am con dent we will continue to be successful for the next 25 years.
Gerad Hardy
Gerad Hardy
Chair, Mississippi Gaming & Hospitality Association
Sincerely,
LETTER FROM
MGHA CHAIR