## The Revival of Indigenous Gaming Enterprises – ICE365 Content Series – iGB
Native American gaming venues were significantly affected by the worldwide closure brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak over the past year. However, many experts believe that the road to recovery is already becoming apparent.
**Home > ICE365 Content Series > The Reemergence of Indigenous Operators Post-COVID**
**The Reemergence of Indigenous Operators Post-COVID**
On April 19th, the ICE 365 Digital Pub hosted a gathering on Native American gaming, where numerous industry professionals involved in this sector discussed the obstacles faced by tribes and the path to recovery.
The following statements are taken from the Digital Pub held on April 19th, part of the ICE 365 Indigenous Gaming Content Series, sponsored by Kambi.
**Community Understanding**
It is evident that one of the most significant effects of Native American gaming is its impact on the community.
The industry, as a source of funding for Native American communities, is more than just a commercial enterprise.
“It has a deeper significance,” one participant remarked. “It has a long-term effect, so it has a purpose, it’s not just gaming entertainment.
“When the coin goes into the machine, it goes somewhere, it does something, it assists the tribe’s government and social services.”
Pub participants also talked about the impact of Native American gaming on a personal level, with one describing the industry as “transformative.”
They stated, ‘I can discuss all the positive effects it’s had on me and my family – my mother, siblings, aunts, uncles, and relatives. It truly aided them in escaping poverty.’
This feeling of togetherness makes the pandemic even more difficult. However, individuals mentioned that tribal members are essential for the tribe’s return to normalcy, particularly in their gaming operations and the region’s economy.
A Positive Comeback and Dedication
With face coverings and physical distancing likely to remain, there are concerns that this could negatively impact the customer experience at casinos.
One individual strongly emphasized the need to discover ways to connect with patrons in this new era of physical distancing, to make it feel as similar to the past as possible.
“I believe that within the tribe, when you’re wearing masks, when you have barriers between you, you must connect in a way to maintain that loyalty. You desire people to tell their friends and recommend the location.”
“You want individuals to leave saying, ‘I still felt that strong sense of community,’ so I think that becomes even more crucial.”
Safety regulations have an additional advantage in terms of how comfortable patrons feel. One person remarked that in the entire hospitality sector, if customers feel secure, they’ll spend money.
As individuals remained confined to their residences, and subconsciously desired to acknowledge entities that rigorously enforced pandemic protocols, they asserted that COVID-19 safety precautions could potentially result in increased financial gains.
However, participants indicated that the potential drawbacks associated with the in-person gambling experience have become inconsequential. One participant mentioned that their tribe employed loyalty programs to encourage individuals to engage in gambling activities at their casino even prior to the pandemic: “When you travel by car to Las Vegas, to California, there are advertisements displayed along the entire route stating, ‘Why travel to Las Vegas? Turn around, you have just passed another casino!'”
Concentrating on high-yielding players and groups constitutes a crucial strategy for generating much-needed revenue. One participant characterized it as the “top priority” for casinos resuming operations.
Tribal gaming operators have observed positive indications of a recovery. With the majority of state casinos now open (albeit subject to capacity limitations), revenue is on the rise. One tribal member remarked that the public, after being restricted to their homes for a year, is eager to engage in social interactions.
“Our casino figures — they are skyrocketing,” they stated. “You are aware of all those reports we have been hearing about individuals experiencing frustration? Individuals simply desiring to venture out and spend money?
“It is a very real phenomenon, particularly in Southern California. Consequently, we hope to catch up with the rest of the world.”
However, for others residing on Indian reservations, the transition is occurring at a slower pace.
Weve witnessed a significant decline in customer feedback due to financial constraints, according to a data analyst. “Frankly, everyone has been shut down for an extended period,” they added.
“Certain communities haven’t even begun providing services again. Others are still recovering,” one person remarked.
The discussion then shifted to the new obstacles confronting tribal casinos. One major concern was the escalating popularity of sports wagering.
“The nationwide sports betting frenzy is difficult to overlook,” one individual stated.
Whether sports betting takes place was only a portion of the conversation, but its location will determine the success of tribal casinos following the pandemic.
“My concern is that numerous sports betting companies aren’t truly interested in sports—it’s more about online gambling,” the same person added. “Consider New Jersey; examine the figures, it’s evident where the actual revenue lies.”
While online casinos may be more lucrative, there were apprehensions about how online casinos could proliferate and harm tribal casinos.
The discussion also addressed the financial performance of tribal casinos and their future plans.
A number of indigenous operators have started to make sure that the growth of the gaming industry benefits their communities. They are not only looking for partnerships or market access agreements, but also putting money into developing their own offerings and services.
However, while many gambling houses have not yet returned to full capacity operations, and there may be a long way to go, speakers agreed that this is not a time to be careless with spending. Native groups must invest wisely to ensure a return on their investment.
“I believe we are all in the same situation. We all hope the world gets back to normal by the end of the summer,” one participant pondered. “But tribes, like everywhere else in Las Vegas, are gradually bringing back more conveniences.”
Other forms of casino conveniences, such as live music events and conferences, are still being tested to make sure they meet COVID-19 safety standards. This means there is still considerable uncertainty ahead. However, there is a general feeling of optimism about the future of the industry.
“The basics of the casino industry remain very strong,” one participant noted. Furthermore, H2 Gambling Capital projects that by 2025, more than half of US casino revenue will come from tribal properties.
Speakeasy concluded that the question is not whether tribal casinos will recover, but when.
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