Revenues slashed in half
Maine casinos have seen a 55% decline in revenues during the first three quarters of 2020. This represents the fourth-largest decrease among states surveyed by London-based gaming research firm Safe Betting Sites.
In 24 states that permit casino gambling, revenues fell 36.5%, or over $12bn, from January through September. Total revenues were down from $33.99bn in 2019 to $21.6bn this year.
Maine casinos nine-month totals
In Maine, the Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino Bangor managed to bring in $49.76m in revenues. Total casino revenues dropped 54.91% when compared to the same time period in 2019.
According to the research by Safe Betting Sites, Maine came in fourth-worst among the states surveyed. It fared slightly better than Michigan, which saw a revenue decrease of 57.99%. New York took the second spot with a 66.88% decrease and New Mexico suffered the steepest drop in revenue, down over 71%.
The report pointed out that the US casino industry is at the forefront when it comes to implementing COVID-19 health and safety protocols. Such protocols have allowed casinos to reopen and continue to offer services.
sportsbooks are witnessing an increased action translating to a steady recovery path of the industry.”
“With business returning to some normalcy,” the report states, “sportsbooks are witnessing an increased action translating to a steady recovery path of the industry.”
Professional sports leagues started their seasons again last quarter, which positively impacted the sports betting industry.
Getting back to work
Maine casinos were back in action in early July after shutting down at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March. The state decided to reopen before neighboring states like New York, with strict plans in place to protect employees and guests.
State officials agreed on a pandemic safety plan so services could be provided and employees could get back to work. At the time, such restrictions included sectioning off areas of the casinos to promote social distancing.
Employees and customers must wear masks and separation of guests and employees is essential. Staff members clean slot machines and table games regularly throughout the day to promote a clean and safe environment.