The Gaming/Casino industry comprises a large percentage of the Hospitality, Tourism and Entertainment sector in Canada.  Gaming operations represent a substantial contribution to the provincial economies across the country in both direct and indirect industries related to hospitality, tourism, and entertainment.  Legalized gaming in Canada has also grown by 127% since 1995.

According to a national study¹ conducted on the economic impact of gaming in Canada, (National Gaming Impact Study, 2007), the gaming/casino industry is responsible for:

• more than $15 billion in direct revenue
• over $2 billion in direct salaried employment for Canadians working in the industry
• directly employing over 135,000 employees
• $10 billion in current capital investment

The Casino/Gaming industry is Canada’s biggest entertainment industry – approximately the same size as movies, TV, recorded music and professional sports combined.

From the perspective of the hospitality sector, gaming is just behind full-service restaurants (at $17.2 billion) and on par with limited-service restaurants (at $15.4 billion) in terms of economic contribution.  Gaming also places ahead of accommodation services (at $14.3 billion) and air travel (at $11.9 billion) with Canada’s two major airlines.

Within the Canadian gaming/casino industry, the ability to provide excellent customer service is paramount as Canadian gaming/casino properties have evolved from local bingo halls and charitable casino events into world class full service entertainment destinations.  In addition to gaming areas, gaming/casino properties across Canada offer Las Vegas-style shows, concerts, restaurants (including fine dining), lounge areas, retail shops, attractions, hotels and conference facilities. All facets of tourism/hospitality are combined and available under one roof and are visited by local guests, Canadian travelers and international tourists.  Casinos are located all across Canada and include public, private and Aboriginal operated properties.  

With the unique combination of Customer Service skills (soft skills) and technical skills required to be successful in the gaming world, the industry requires staff that have the Essential Skills to perform and function at the level needed to meet these needs.  

¹ Statistics taken from: Canadian Gaming Association, January 2008, ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE CANADIAN GAMING INDUSTRY; Key Findings Report.