Canadian Gaming Association to launch COVID-19 support survey

The Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) has announced it will soon be launching a survey with the aim of better understanding what support and assistance is required by the industry as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 shut-down. 

In addition to this, the CGA also released statistics regarding the impact the COVID-19 outbreak has had on the industry for use by organizations who are in discussions with government partners. 

A statement from the association read: “As COVID-19 continues to spread across Canada, our gaming industry is doing its part by closing down casinos, casino amenities, and community gaming centres. This is unprecedented and will have far-reaching impacts, not just on employees, but also the various businesses and suppliers that work with us.

“The Canadian Gaming Association is reaching out to the Federal government and our provincial government partners to advocate for support for our industry and employees, suppliers, and operators, so when it is safe to re-open, we can return to delivering strong results for our partners and communities.  

“We support taking whatever steps are necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. We will work with the government to ensure that our industry rides out this closure and emerges as a strong employer and economic partner.”

In regard to the statistics, the association revealed that almost all of Canada’s 114 casinos along with over 200 permanent bingo halls and community gaming centres had closed down in a 72-hour period. 

Furthermore, the CGA’s statistics also highlight that the Canadian gaming industry provides roughly 182,5000 jobs with an average salary of $65,000. Moreover, it is estimated that the country’s gaming industry provides roughly $1bn in employee wages, $1.2 billion in goods and services, whilst also delivering in excess of $765 million in revenue for government and charities on a monthly basis. 

The statement concluded: “Closing down our land-based casino industry is also a significant hit to gaming equipment suppliers, many who are based in Canada, as what is compromised due to COVID-19 is the chain reaction created through the purchase of goods and services needed to sustain casino operations which is worth $14.6 billion annually or $1.2 billion each month.

“In addition to the gaming revenue generated, a further $1.0 billion comes from non-gaming revenue, through meals from our restaurants; shows in our theatres; room bookings, conferences and meetings in our hotels; and shopping at retail stores on our properties. This too is threatened.

“We want to ensure the industry is on the proper footing to continue fulfilling our role as quickly as possible after this crisis. But more critically, we want to make sure we have the opportunity to get as many employees as possible back to work as soon as possible.”