Consumer spending on gambling continues to rise

A dealer shuffles cards at a blackjack table at the Hollywood Columbus casino. The casino had its worth November, revenue-wise, since opening in October 2012. FILE PHOTO

A dealer shuffles cards at a blackjack table at the Hollywood Columbus casino. The casino had its worth November, revenue-wise, since opening in October 2012. FILE PHOTO

Consumer spending on gambling is expected to grow 3.5 percent annually through 2020, according to a new report.

Casino hotels are expected to see above-average growth, as many of these establishments offer gambling as part of their entertainment strategy, according to findings from Freedonia Focus Reports.

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The report found the regulatory landscape has softened for gambling in many states, and people are feeling more comfortable with their personal income. Gambling is no longer isolated to a few travel destinations like Las Vegas, and the opportunity for gambling is available in more locations throughout the U.S.

Ohio's racinos saw record numbers in November, according to an earlier report from this newspaper.

The state’s seven racinos, which offer only slot machines, reported a record November with nearly $70 million in revenue. But its four casinos had their worst-ever November, only bringing in $62.1 million.

READ THE FULL STORY: Two Dayton-area racinos post their best November revenue totals since opening

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