Colorado casinos expect recovery through sports betting

Operators in Colorado are hoping for a rebound after the end of restrictions for table games and with a boost provided by sports betting in casinos.

US.- Colorado casino operators are optimistic despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic after the state generated US$1bn spent in sports bets.

The state introduced sports betting in casinos in May 2020 as a measure to help casino activity during the pandemic and boost tax collection.

Casinos had to close several times last year and table games remain subject to restrictions until at least May.

After the addition of sports betting to casinos, many operators have partnered with sportsbooks.

Tim Morrissey, general manager of Saratoga Casino Black Hawk, said: “The sportsbook being added, new table games being added, it’s a very exciting time in Colorado. I think we have a lot of strong plans for what the future holds.”

“It certainly added revenue that we’re appreciative of. It’s impactful for the state’s tax dollars. It wouldn’t be the end of the world if we didn’t have it, but we’re very excited to have it.

“We think there’s a lot of growth there. The impact overall is positive for our business. Certainly today with the pandemic going on, any incremental revenue is great revenue for us.”

A few hundred residents of Gilpin County have already received Covid-19 vaccines at casinos being used as vaccination centres.

Morrissey said: “I think as the vaccine rolls out, guest confidence is going to continue to increase. We see more guests returning to the market every day. And that’s only going to get stronger as the vaccine rolls out more”.