A ban on smoking and the prevalence of video lottery terminals are among a number of challenges presently facing Switzerland's casinos, it has been claimed.
Ernesto Sommer, of Grand Casino Baden, said that although the economic downturn has had only a moderate impact on the country’s casinos, the May 1 smoking ban is forcing operators to make significant changes.
"We are in the process of renovating our gaming areas to implement smoking areas for our guests by May 1," Sommer told InterGaming, stating that in order to continue attracting new players the casino is to extend its opening hours and actively target additional customers.
However, while the implementation of the smoking ban may be the most pressing item on the agenda, Sommer suggested that there were several other obstacles to overcome.
"The main challenge the casino industry is facing is from video lottery terminals," he said. "Furthermore, the government is looking into permitting new casino licences, which, if they get off the ground, would have a high impact on us.
"Also, if online gambling is permitted, this would influence our industry very much."
