US Casino Report Shows Residents Equate Gambling to Dining Out
A survey by the American Gaming Association showed US residents treat casino gambling as one of an assortment of entertainment possibilities. US adults both spend a similar amount on gambling compared to other leisure activities, as well as reacting the same way to the recession in spending patterns.The AGA, which represents US commercial casinos, found that US consumers spend about the same on candy as on gambling, with cable television expenditures almost tripling gaming spending. Even the purchase of sporting goods involved double the amount wagered at casinos.
Further, reductions in discretionary spending have affected gambling about the same as other forms of entertainment. The survey asked, "During these recessionary times, what percentage of Americans who participate in various leisure activities are cutting back their spending?"
The response indicated sixty percent of gamblers have cut back on gaming, just as sixty percent who dine at restaurants have reduced their meals out. Going to movies, taking weekend trips, and attending concerts and sports events all returned similar numbers.
OCA gaming analyst Sherman Bradley says, 'This helps substantiate the position that gambling is a normal entertainment choice, rather than a pernicious, addictive evil. People gamble like they see movies and eat fancy meals, unless they can't afford it. Then they stop."
