Casino Industry Outlook for 2025: Insights from Marc Oppenheimer, CMO of Parx Casino

_{Tino Magnatta asked about Parx Casino's innovative approach to marketing and the rise of skill-based gaming. (Image: Courtesy of Tino Magnatta)}

In an interview on LinkedIn with Tino Magnatta, host of Casino Update, Marc Oppenheimer, Chief Marketing Officer of Parx Casino, shared his perspectives on the land-based and online casino industry future as we head into 2025.

With the economic landscape showing signs of improvement, Oppenheimer expressed optimism that the upcoming year will closely resemble the anticipated dynamics of 2024.

Economic Recovery Boosting Consumer Confidence  

According to Oppenheimer, the closing months of 2024 have already seen positive trends—namely, a stabilising stock market and a reduction in inflation rates. Although consumer prices remain high, especially in essentials like gas, the overall sentiment is shifting.

"People are starting to feel a little more comfortable about where economic policy is heading, and if they feel better, they'll likely spend more money." Oppenheimer remarked.

This sentiment seems to reflect a broader trend in the industry, where consistent consumer spending on entertainment and gaming is critical. Oppenheimer emphasised the importance of both discretionary time and income:

He said, "For the entertainment sector, including casinos, we need people to feel comfortable spending their discretionary income."

Adapting Marketing Strategies in a Changing Landscape 

Parx Casino's marketing strategies are evolving to remain adaptive to consumer behavior. Oppenheimer explained, "Our automated marketing campaigns adjust based on individual spending patterns.”   

This flexibility allows the casino to respond quickly to changes in consumer behaviors, ensuring that marketing efforts align with current spending habits. 

Labor Market Challenges and Opportunities 

Looking ahead, Oppenheimer indicated that the labor market will remain a key focus. While unemployment rates are low, finding qualified employees, especially at management and executive levels, presents significant challenges.  

"If we can successfully fill line-level roles and allow for career advancement at higher levels, that’s a sign of a healthier industry," he noted.

To address rising labor costs—a significant concern following the pandemic—Oppenheimer highlighted that Parx Casino has adjusted its wage structure accordingly. 

"We had to raise wages significantly to attract employees post-COVID, but moving into 2025, we believe we'll return to a normal raise cycle," he stated.  

The Emergence of Skill-Based Games  

Another noteworthy trend in the Pennsylvania landscape is the rise of skill-based games. Oppenheimer revealed that there are more skill-based machines in the state than licensed slot machines. 

Current legal battles and regulatory issues surrounding these games remain unresolved, with operators claiming their legality while others view them as existing in a grey area. 

"There are currently between 60,000 and 80,000 skill-based games located in various businesses across Pennsylvania, including convenience stores and bars," Oppenheimer explained.  

"While these games are profitable for small businesses, they can impact the traditional casino experience by potentially drawing lower-level gamblers away from the casinos." 

Marc Oppenheimer's insights paint a cautiously optimistic picture for the casino industry in 2025, supported by economic recovery, adaptive marketing strategies, and a focus on labor market dynamics. 

However, the ongoing emergence of skill-based gaming poses both opportunities and challenges that will require careful navigation as the industry evolves. As operators gear up for the upcoming year, a combination of consumer comfort, labor readiness, and regulatory clarity will be essential for sustained growth in the casino sector.