After two down years, Pennsylvania slot machine revenues are back on the rebound.
Gross revenue totaled $2.36 billion last year, a jump of 1.99 percent, according to the state gaming control board. It marked the first time since 2012 the state has seen an increase from slot machines.
Richard McGarvey, a gaming board spokesman, attributed the increase to an improving economy and lower gasoline prices. He also said the state’s 12 casinos had a role in the improvement.
“The operators are doing a good job marketing themselves, keeping the customers they have and improving a little,” he said.
After a 2.7 percent increase in 2012, gross slots revenue, the money gamblers lose, fell 3.5 percent in 2013 and 2.7 percent in 2014.
Despite the increase, the $2.36 billion generated in 2015 didn’t match the record $2.4 billion in gross revenue collected in 2012. Last year’s take produced $1.26 billion in tax revenue, the majority of which is used for property tax relief.
Locally, gross revenues for Rivers Casino on the North Shore, at $276.9 million, were flat last year, while those at The Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Washington County, at $220.2 million, increased 1.35 percent, the fifth highest in the state.
The Meadows ended the year with the fourth highest gross revenue in the state, an unusually strong showing.
It attributed the results to a strategic marketing and advertising campaign that touted the casino’s advantages as well as recent enhancements, including the addition of complimentary drinks for active gamblers; the loosening of various slot machines; the remodeling of casino nightclubs and restaurants; an on-site hotel; and a new events center.
“Guests have responded in a positive manner to the many enhancements we have made, in addition to our mainstay — superior customer service,” said Sean Sullivan, The Meadows general manager.
Mark Belko: mbelko@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1262.
First Published: January 7, 2016, 5:00 a.m.
Updated: January 7, 2016, 2:21 p.m.