Industry News
Europe’s gambling culture is slowly fading away
Europe is often regarded as the cultural hotspot of the world. It is home to some of the world’s most celebrated artists, enchanting cities and phenomenons. Countries like France, Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom attract more tourists than any other part of the world. Naturally, such big numbers of international visitors travel long hours for a reason. These countries offer scenarios and landmarks that can not be seen elsewhere.
Over time, the cultural heritage and traditions well-hidden in the depth of the continent made it one of the richest corners of the world. Every period of its history is still reflected on old city walls and once nearly devastated cathedrals. This surely is what attracts so many people from all across the globe. Besides, Europe is the financial center of the world. With hundreds of millions of residents, some of the biggest corporations are headquartered in major financial hubs of Europe.
All of these factors led to the development of a powerful gambling industry which is widely acknowledged as one of the best globally. Cities like Monaco and Nice on the french riviera are modern meccas for gamblers from all around the world. Venues in such cities offer luxury services, sparkling environments and big chances of winning.
Despite Europe’s love for luxury, the continent is not lagging behind in any niche of gambling. The economical development of Eastern and Central Europe saw a rising number of capitals being turned into gambling heavens. Cities like Prague, Warsaw, and Kyiv are some of the top destinations for budget gamblers. They particularly attract crowds from western Europe, where casinos are more sophisticated and gambling, as well as other means of entertainment, is related to higher costs.
All in all, the continent of Europe has developed a well-established gambling culture in almost every nation. Players can find desired venues within any price range in European countries. However, the culture is slowly disappearing amid the spread of online gambling platforms. Recommendations and overall feedback from the community, especially the ones outlined in the Playamo casino review along with others clearly suggest that modern gambling enthusiasts are turning towards online casinos.
At first glance, it is difficult to understand why online gambling is gradually overtaking physical venues across the continent. The thing is that young people, as well as those with high incomes but limited time due to work now prefer more convenient options. For many, getting to the casino is too time-consuming and inefficient. Thus, an increasing number of people choose to enjoy their beloved activity from home.
Moreover, online casinos are popping up faster than physical ones. As a result, the competition between them is higher leading to better offers for customers. Bonuses and free spins are provided for new players by many online gambling platforms. Under such circumstances, it is obvious that many people choose to get online rather than pay a visit to their local casino.
This trend is also affecting the income of casinos, particularly in Eastern Europe. Monaco, London and other grand meccas of gambling will keep having enormous numbers of visitors unlike those located in Prague or Budapest. Their revenues are highly dependant on visitors from other European nations, as well as overseas travelers. As online gambling opportunities arise in almost all corners of the world, some less known venues in Europe are left without visitors.
Furthermore, there is a new wave of legislative changes across the continent that is having a major impact on the industry. Laws are being made stricter in some central and eastern European nations amid the global liberalization of the field. One example is the Czech Republic which recently tightened its rules on gambling. Country’s capital Prague remains a major gambling industry hub but its status in the future is uncertain.
Other countries like Belgium are also making legislation against gambling more comprehensive. None of the countries are banning casinos altogether, however, the added pressure caused by new laws is making maintenance and operation of physical venues more expensive than ever before. Amid such a crisis, online platforms are yet again taking the opportunity, spreading their services into new markets in Europe and beyond.
Despite the views about gambling, it undoubtedly is an important part of European culture. Far before Las Vegas would arise across the Atlantic in Nevada, Europe was already establishing its first formal gambling venues. After its beginning in the 17th century, the industry has become associated with many cities and towns in Europe. Some of them are solely dependant on revenues generated by casinos. Thus, the disappearance of Europe’s gambling culture can only be seen as a big loss for the continent.
Industry News
International Accolade for Campaign from the Danish Gambling Authority
At a conference for gambling regulators from all around the world, the Danish Gambling Authority has been awarded “Best regulatory campaign”. The award was given for the Danish Gambling Authority’s campaign “The One-Armed Bandit”, which on social media highlighted the consequences of gambling for young people under the age of 18.
The award was presented by a jury from the International Association of Gaming Regulators, an association of 81 gambling authorities from around the world. Every year, they gather for a conference to discuss current gambling topics across countries. This year, the conference was held in Rome under the heading “Navigate the future of gaming regulation in a transforming world”.
It was a proud Director of the Danish Gambling Authority, Anders Dorph, who received the statuette in front of the 400 participants at the conference gala dinner.
“I am incredibly proud and happy that we have won this award! It is a very special recognition and honour that our colleagues from all over the world have chosen our campaign,” said the Director.
Campaign personifies gambling addiction
Despite the fact that most types of gambling have an age limit of 18, a study by the Danish Gambling Authority in 2023 showed that 15% of young people aged 15-17 have gambled.
To prevent this and to prevent young people from becoming addicted to gambling, the Danish Gambling Authority launched the campaign “The One-Armed Bandit” in December last year, targeting young people aged 14 to 17.
The campaign talks about the potential consequences of gambling in a humorous and exaggerated way.
It does this through the fictional character, “The One-Armed Bandit”, who is the personification of gambling addiction. In videos on social media, the One-Armed Bandit tries to lure young people to gamble in unorthodox ways. He uses humour, sarcasm and provocative language to achieve his goal.
To spread awareness of the One-Armed Bandit among the target audience, the Danish Gambling Authority used influencers, among other things.
“It’s a very different campaign from our previous campaigns. It required completely new approaches and a lot of courage to reach a new and very young target group. The people we wanted to reach are very hard to reach with campaigns, but with “The One-Armed Bandit” we hit the mark and I’m very proud of that,” said Anders Dorph.
International recognition
When the nomination was written and sent to the jury for evaluation, Anders Dorph and the rest of the Danish Gambling Authority were very excited: “It’s one thing for us in little Denmark to think it was an unconventional campaign, but would our colleagues in the rest of the world understand the irony or would they think it was really about being enticed to play?”
The concern was put to rest when Anders Dorph, on behalf of the Danish Gambling Authority, lifted the trophy for the award, which was won in competition with three other countries’ campaigns.
“There was a great diversity in the nominees’ submissions, reflecting our members’ increasing efforts to improve the regulation of the gambling market,” said Sarah Kelly, Vice President of IAGR.
Campaign with impact
Subsequent surveys among the target audience showed that the One-Armed Bandit had actually made them reflect on their relationship with gambling: 44% said the campaign had made them think about how often they gamble and how much money they spend and 41% indicated that they have talked to their friends about how difficult it can be to control their gambling.
“It’s fantastic to be able to say that we have made a difference,” said Anders Dorph, who is also aware that the great results are a contributing factor to the authority being able to take home the international award from Rome.
He is joined by Sarah Kelly from IAGR: “The winners stood out for their commitment to improving standards to regulate the gaming market for the benefit of both industry and consumers.”
The agency Advice, in collaboration with the Danish Gambling Authority, is behind the campaign, which features comedian David Minerba in the role of the One-Armed Bandit.
The post International Accolade for Campaign from the Danish Gambling Authority appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Industry News
ECA Announces Winners of Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship to the EDP 2024
The European Casino Association (ECA) has announced the winners of its esteemed Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship for the Executive Development Programme of the Universities of Las Vegas and Reno.
“Our jury has made their selection, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to: Siham Makrache, Director of Marketing & Communications at Grand Casino Brussels, Belgium and Vesna Goričan Čač, Marketing Manager, Mond, Resort & Entertainment, HIT Universe of Fun, Slovenia,” the Association said.
Now in its landmark seventh year, ECA’s initiative continues to champion diversity and inclusion within the European casino industry by offering two scholarships annually to ECA member employees, providing fully-funded participation in the renowned Executive Development Programme at Lake Tahoe, USA.
The Executive Development Programme (EDP), a partnership between UNLV International Gaming Institute and the University of Nevada, Reno, stands as the pinnacle of gaming leadership education. This intensive 8-day professional development programme, now in its 35th year, is tailored for future C-suite executives in the gaming industry. With over three decades of excellence and more than 1600 alumni worldwide, the EDP focuses on developing leadership, management, and strategic thinking skills. It emphasises strategic issues in casino gaming while providing global networking opportunities, offering participants a unique chance to establish lasting professional relationships with industry peers.
ECA Board Member Tiina Siltanen underscores the importance of this initiative, stating, “Promoting diversity and inclusion in the land-based casino industry remains a cornerstone of the ECA’s mission. These scholarships play a pivotal role in fostering these values, providing opportunities for underrepresented groups to rise in the industry and bring unique perspectives to decision-making roles.”
The ECA firmly believes that a diverse and inclusive environment enhances employee engagement and satisfaction. The scholarships awarded to the Executive Development Programme are instrumental in nurturing these values within the land-based casino sector, creating pathways for currently underrepresented groups to ascend in the industry and contribute their unique perspectives to decision-making roles.
The ECA extended its sincere gratitude to its partners – Clarion, AGEM, and the Universities of Las Vegas and Reno – for their unwavering support and commitment to this transformative scholarship programme. Their ongoing dedication ensures that all costs, including travel, accommodation, and the training programme, are covered for the scholarship recipients.
This initiative not only enhances employee engagement and satisfaction but also propels the European casino industry towards a more diverse and inclusive future.
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Industry News
Betsson Group Triumphs at the EGR Operator Awards 2024, Securing Five Major Wins
Betsson Group has once again proven its dominance and dedication to excellence, taking home five awards at the EGR Operator Awards 2024. This year’s event, held in London, saw the industry’s best gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements, and Betsson emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners.
The accolades this year include top honours in the categories of Sports Betting Operator, Customer Services Operator and ESG Strategy of the Year, with Betsson also securing a silver award for Operator of the Year. Additionally, Jonna Danlund, Head of ESG at Betsson, received the coveted Individual Achievement Award, reflecting Betsson’s leadership in both industry standards and sustainable practices.
“As we celebrate these accomplishments, Betsson Group remains focused on the future. Our ongoing investments in innovation, customer service, and responsible gaming will ensure we continue to lead the way in the online gaming industry. The recognitions we’ve received at the EGR Operator Awards 2024 are a testament to the dedication of our teams, the trust of our customers, and our commitment to setting new standards for excellence,” Betsson Group said.
The post Betsson Group Triumphs at the EGR Operator Awards 2024, Securing Five Major Wins appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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