Global Gaming Expo producers–the American Gaming Association and Reed Exhibitions—announced the 2-day virtual conference, set for October 27 and 28, will kick off at 8 a.m. Pacific time, October 14 with a discussion about the impacts of Covid-19. Hollywood Casino Toledo General Manager Justin Carter, FireKeepers Casino Chief Executive Officer Kathy George and Coeur d’Alene Casino Chief Executive Officer Laura Stensgar will talk about the pandemic’s impact on employees, communities and business.
Brian Christopher, publisher of BCSlots.com, will lead the conversation. His recent commentary for CDC Gaming Reports detailed his visits to 21 casinos in nine states following Covid-19 related shutdowns. Nearly 1,000 commercial and tribal casinos in 43 states closed in mid-March to slow the spread of the virus.
AGA Senior Director of Strategic Communications and Responsibility Cait DeBaun said, “From the kickoff keynote to our last networking session, the goal for G2E 2020 is to provide insights, connections and business opportunities that participants cannot find elsewhere and directly support our industry’s recovery.”
The virtual G2E will replace the annual 3-day event held in Las Vegas, this year originally scheduled for October 5-8 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center. Organizers canceled it in July due to global travel restrictions and concerns over the spread of Covid-19 through large public gatherings; the event typically attracts nearly 30,000 attendees from around the world.
Instead, the virtual 2-day G2E will offer networking, education sessions, meetings, business opportunities and feature content from thought leaders regarding Covid-19 recovery, payment modernization, tribal gaming and expanding legalized sports betting. Exhibitors and buyers will offer virtual showrooms, product demos, one-on-one meetings and more.
Event Director Korbi Carrison said, “Every year, G2E spotlights the latest trends through education and product discovery and facilitates personal connections that empower gaming companies and industry leaders for success. This year will be no exception. We’re excited for the opportunity G2E’s virtual format gives us to expand the universe of speakers and reach larger audiences worldwide.”
The 2021 G2E has been scheduled for October 4-7 at the Sands Expo.
