The European Casino Association (ECA) has successfully concluded its Casino Industry Forum 2024, hosted by HIT universe of fun in Nova Gorica, Slovenia. The event brought casino CEOs, experts, partners and friends for a series of enlightening presentations and discussions on the future of the European casino industry.
Source of the article: www.europeancasinoassociation.org, pubblished on 15 November 2024
AI in Casino Operations: A Game-Changing Perspective
Dr. Aleksandra Przegalińska-Skierkowska, a university professor and author, delivered a keynote speech on ‘AI in Strategy.’ Her presentation provided a comprehensive overview of AI’s current capabilities and potential applications in casino operations. Dr. Przegalińska-Skierkowska’s expertise in AI concepts and human-AI interactions offered valuable insights into how AI could revolutionise various aspects of our industry, from customer experience to operational efficiency to responsible gaming.
Navigating the Legal Landscape
The forum featured crucial discussions on the legal framework affecting the casino industry:
- Philippe Vlaemminck and Beata Guzik presented a detailed analysis of the EU AI Act and AI Ethical Rules. This session focused upon how these regulations aim to balance technological innovation with ethical standards in the gambling sector, covering impacts on operational processes, player protection, and transparency.
- Philipp Gaggl, Director for ESG & Climate Change at PwC Consulting, gave a deep dive into the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). He explained how this directive, will, from 2025 onwards, require obliged companies to disclose detailed social, environmental, and governance impact information, with implications for transparency and stakeholder trust in the casino industry.
Technological Advancements and Industry Future
John Purcell, CEO of DigiWheel, presented: ‘The Land Based Casino of Tomorrow: Embracing Technology to Thrive.’ With over three decades of experience in the gambling sector, Purcell shared insights on how casinos can leverage emerging technologies to enhance their operations and customer experience. Purcell captivated the audience with the provocative question: ‘Will casinos be dead in 10 years?’ His presentation challenged current casino practices and highlighted new trends, including those emerging from online gaming that are likely to shape the casino of the future. Purcell’s talk encouraged industry leaders to rethink their strategies and embrace innovation to remain competitive in an evolving landscape.
Supplier Panel: Next-Generation Casino Technologies
A panel of industry suppliers, including representatives from Novomatic, IGT, Tronius, Light & Wonder and Video Tracking Solutions, discussed ‘Innovating the Casino Floor.’ The session explored the integration of AI, machine learning, and data analytics into casino products, highlighting advancements in player engagement, operational optimisation, and responsible gaming initiatives.
The Fun Economy and Casino Operations
Bo Bernhard, Vice President of Economic Development at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, delivered a virtual keynote on ‘The (Top) Secrets of the Fun Economy.’ His presentation explored how the future economic landscape is increasingly favouring entertainment and leisure sectors, providing actionable insights for casino operators to align with these trends.
CEO Panel: AI and Innovation in Land-Based Casinos
The forum concluded with a CEO panel featuring leaders from ECA member casinos. The discussion focused on the topics raised during the day, and how AI and technological advancements are reshaping the traditional casino experience, addressing challenges and opportunities in customer engagement, staff development, operational efficiency, compliance, and responsible gambling measures. The panel also delved into the regulatory hurdles that hamper the implementation of innovative solutions and the delivery of first-class guest service.
ECA General Assembly
As part of the forum, the ECA held its General Assembly, where members discussed the association’s strategic direction towards the stakeholders in Brussels and its member countries. This meeting reinforced the ECA’s role as a unifying voice for the European casino industry.
Celebrating History: HIT Casinos’ 40th Anniversary
Coinciding with the ECA Casino Industry Forum, HIT Casinos celebrated its 40th anniversary (1984-2024), adding a festive atmosphere to the event and highlighting the enduring legacy of casino entertainment in the region.
Erwin van Lambaart, Chairman of the ECA, stated: “The ECA Casino Industry Forum 2024 has once again proven to be an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The insights shared here, particularly regarding AI, regulatory developments, and the challenges faced by our industry, will undoubtedly shape the future of European casinos. We are grateful to HIT Universe of Fun for hosting this milestone event and for their exceptional hospitality at the Perla and Park Entertainment Centres. Their warm welcome and seamless organisation have significantly contributed to the success of our forum. We look forward to working together to overcome regulatory hurdles and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.”
Sandi Brataševec, president of the Board of Hit Company, added: “The ECA Casino Industry Forum is undoubtedly one of the key moments in the year that closely connects various stakeholder’s interests and ambitions in the European casino industry. It was an honour for the Hit Company to host this prestigious event as we celebrate our 40th anniversary in the gaming industry. We would like to sincerely thank the organisers, speakers, and all participants whose remarkable contributions made this event a success. Your dedication and commitment to the advancement of the casino industry are truly commendable. As ECA members we look forward to continuing our collaboration in order to ensure the development of a responsible, innovative, and sustainable future for the European casino industry.”
Looking Ahead: ECA Casino Industry Forum 2025
While the dates and location for the ECA Casino Industry Forum 2025 are yet to be announced, the association is already looking forward to another successful gathering of industry leaders and innovators. Attendees and stakeholders are encouraged to stay tuned for an upcoming announcement regarding the details of next year’s forum.
Foto: Leon Ambroželj