Mississippi’s casino industry saw a significant rebound in June, with total revenue topping $200 million for the second consecutive month. This positive trend is a promising sign for the state’s gaming operators, who have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to data released by the Mississippi Gaming Commission, total gross gaming revenue in the state reached $208.3 million in June, up 17.7% compared to the same month last year. This marks the highest monthly revenue total since February 2020, just before the pandemic forced casinos to shut down temporarily.
The strong performance in June was driven by robust demand from visitors eager to return to the state’s casinos after months of closures and restrictions. Many gaming properties reported strong attendance numbers, with guests flocking to their favorite slot machines, table games, and restaurants.
Leading the way in terms of revenue were the coastal casinos, which generated $121.3 million in June, up 18.5% from the previous year. The coastal region has traditionally been a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sand, and gaming entertainment, and it appears that visitors are once again flocking to the area in droves.
Meanwhile, the northern casinos saw a 16.2% increase in revenue, with totals reaching $86.9 million for the month. This region, which includes popular gaming destinations like Tunica and Greenville, has also benefited from the uptick in visitor traffic.
Overall, the June revenue figures are a welcome development for Mississippi’s gaming industry, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years. The state’s casinos have had to contend with increased competition from neighboring states, as well as the impact of the pandemic on travel and tourism.
However, industry analysts are cautiously optimistic about the outlook for the remainder of the year. With vaccination rates on the rise and travel restrictions easing, there is hope that the momentum seen in June will continue into the summer and fall months.
As Mississippi’s gaming operators continue to navigate this challenging landscape, they are focused on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for their guests. Enhanced cleaning protocols, social distancing measures, and other safety precautions remain in place to protect visitors and staff.
Overall, the resurgence of Mississippi’s casino industry in June is a positive sign for the state’s economy and tourism sector. With strong revenue figures and increasing consumer confidence, the future looks bright for the state’s gaming operators as they work to recover from the challenges of the past year.