A casino is a place offering gaming machines and table games. Its operations are regulated by state law and its profits provide billions in earnings for gambling corporations, investors, and Native American tribes that own and operate them. In addition, casinos support a number of other businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues.
In 2005, a survey conducted by Roper Reports GfK NOP of 2,000 American adults found that the typical casino gambler was a forty-six-year-old female from a household with above-average income. Moreover, most of these gambling patrons possessed at least a high school diploma and many had a college degree.
According to the American Gaming Association, about 51 million people—roughly a quarter of all Americans over 21—visited casinos in 2002, a record figure that represents more than double the number from 2001. In the same year, revenue from casino gaming in the United States increased by about 3% to $26.5 billion.
The casino industry focuses on customer service to attract and retain gamblers. To that end, they offer perks such as free show tickets, reduced-fare transportation, hotel rooms, and buffet meals. These perks are known as comps. Casinos also promote their establishments by hosting a variety of live entertainment events, such as concerts by renowned artists like Frank Sinatra and the Beatles.
Because of the large amounts of money handled, casino security is a major concern. Attempts at fraud and theft by patrons or staff are common; thus, most casinos have extensive security measures in place to prevent such incidents.