Inside Asian Gaming

IAG JAPAN MAR 2020 72 lower rate of return, and maybe wouldn’t make sense on a standalone basis. But when you package them up in an integrated resort format, it increases the overall attractiveness of the property, and it makes a lot of sense. The strength of the performance of the casino helps to position us to be able to invest in those kind of elements and then provide a wider range of attractions and amenities, which helps drive tourism to Singapore and customers to Marina Bay Sands. MC: Growing gaming revenue, however, has proven difficult. GT: It’s been pretty steady throughout our existence. We’re pleased that this kind of stability has been a constant in Singapore. Over time, the profile of the customer and the mix of the customers has changed, but our people who run the casino operations are quite skilled at continuing to bring in strong and reliable customers who contribute to that piece of the business. MC: What’s the impact of having no junket promoters at MBS? GT: Marina Bay Sands is recognized as the most successful integrated resort in the world from a financial standpoint. We’ve been able to deal directly with customers in an appropriate way and establish a very strong business. So that hasn’t served to be a substantial handicap for us. CONVENTIONAL WISDOM MC: Why is MICE uniquely successful here? GT: Singapore was already known globally as a great place to conduct MICE events. They had very strong facilities here, before we arrived, but what the government recognized – and this was quite visionary – is that even though they were strong in this area, they could get stronger. They recognized also that the most attractive MICE space for event organizers or delegates who attend those events is MICE space that is situated in an integrated resort because of everything that’s wrapped around it and the whole The famous SkyPark has made Marina Bay Sands the most Instagrammed hotel in the world. 有名なスカイパークによってマリーナベイ・サンズは世界で最もインスタ映えするホテルになった。 FEATURES