Revenue Figures Show A Continued Return To Form For Mass. Casinos

During May, the three casinos in Massachusetts experienced varying revenue outcomes. While two of the casinos reported a decrease in their earnings compared to the previous month, the state’s largest establishment observed a slight increase.

In addition, data provided by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission showcases the casino industry’s ongoing rebound from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, this past month witnessed a remarkable resurgence as operations approached levels similar to those seen before the pandemic.

A return to form at Mass. casinos

The casinos in the state experienced a revitalizing month in May, with no significant events or stories to report in terms of results.

The state’s casinos have successfully bounced back, surpassing pre-pandemic figures and proving their resilience.

However, according to the recently released May revenue numbers by the MGC, Encore Boston Harbor performed better last month than its two competing establishments.

Here are the gross revenue standings for the three casinos in May:

1. The total amount for Encore Boston Harbor is $52.9 million.
2. MGM Springfield: $21.2 million
3. Plainridge Park generated $12.5 million in revenue from slot machines and an additional $1.1 million from horse racing.

Encore Boston Harbor achieved its highest revenue amount in terms of total slot and table gross gaming revenue since December 2019, when it generated slightly over $54 million.

In addition, it signified the continuation of growth for the sixth consecutive month and surpassed the previous tally of $50.1 million recorded in April.

In comparison to April’s total slot and table GGR of $21.9 million, MGM Springfield experienced a slight decrease.

Furthermore, the Springfield casino has managed to maintain its momentum by surpassing the $21 million mark for the third month in a row. This achievement hasn’t been witnessed since the casino’s impressive four-month streak from July to October 2019.

Plainridge Park experienced a slight decrease in slots revenue of less than $22,000 from April to May, but it quickly rebounded and returned to its previous level.

Plainridge Park has achieved an impressive feat by surpassing $12 million in gross gaming revenue from slots for three consecutive months, a milestone that hasn’t been reached since mid-2019.

The return of live harness racing at Plainridge Park’s track in late April, along with the site’s simulcast wagering, has also contributed to the improvement. Since March, the casino’s horse racing fund has been collecting over $1.1 million monthly.

Gaming commission allows near return to normal

The MGC’s decision to lift the limitations imposed on casinos during the COVID-19 outbreak has been the most crucial development. With the roll-back taking effect on May 29, it is anticipated that June’s statistics will display a notable increase.

Last month, in tandem with Governor Charlie Baker’s announcement to lift pandemic business restrictions, the commission made their decision.

The casino representatives acknowledged their commitment to maintaining COVID-19 precautions, such as providing masks to customers. However, they emphasized that this particular measure was a significant undertaking.

From mid-March through June of last year, all casinos in Massachusetts were completely shut down.

Finally, we have reached the light at the end of the tunnel.

Could you please rephrase this?

Just before the commissioners’ decision, Jacqui Krum, Senior Vice President of Encore Boston Harbor, stated that it would involve opening all slot machines and gaming tables, restoring the previous occupancy levels of our restaurants and the gaming floor.

The decision brings back the fun elements of entertainment by permitting customers to enjoy their drinks while standing and participate in games without being confined by plexiglass barriers. The only aspect that still remains uncertain is the fate of poker at Massachusetts casinos, with decisions anticipated to be made later in the year.

However, the fact that the finish line has now been reached makes that seem insignificant.

“In a statement, MGC Chair Cathy Judd-Stein noted that it has been 15 months since the Gaming Commission gathered with all three casino licensees in a virtual setting to address the widespread impact of the coronavirus pandemic.”

Throughout this process, the three gaming licensees have consistently collaborated, prioritizing the public’s interests and diligently safeguarding their customers and staff.