Rock & Brews CEO on trends in entertainment and casino gaming

The restaurant industry has recently experienced significant growth within the casino space. Despite a marked slowdown in demand in the year following the pandemic, many restaurants are now taking advantage of the pent-up demand.In fact, according to National Restaurant Association70% of consumers say they want in-person gatherings in public places, including restaurants.

Before the pandemic, casinos were already grappling with outdated business models, including finding new ways to deliver the dining experience. Gone are the days when casino dining focused on buffets and fine dining restaurants. The casino experience has now merged into one holistic experience that includes not just gaming, but entertainment and dining as well. It’s all part of a larger “diner” entertainment trend — one that casinos seem determined to win.

While gaming is their livelihood, casino operators have shifted to offering richer, all-encompassing experiences. In this competitive market, casinos must provide a superior experience to keep consumers coming back. According to Nick Dan-Bergman of LaneTerralever, “The type of dining and entertainment a casino offers can be an important driver of loyalty, but operators need to take into account the preferences of different generations.” For example, a Recent Player Trends Study Gen Z were found to be more likely to use loyalty program rewards for friends and family, while Baby Boomers were more likely to use rewards for free meals and free games. There is an opportunity to appeal to both, but you have to understand the mindset of your players to understand the role that dining plays in their overall casino experience.

I had a chance to speak with CEO Adam Goldberg rock and brew And gain insight into how the dining experience is being integrated into the casino industry, and how these trends will play out in the near term.

Jeff Fromm: How is Rock & Brews addressing the challenge that customers’ digital customer journeys may differ from their physical ones? What key lessons can you share?

Adam Goldberg: The Rock & Brews experience has been integrated into the digital journey and used as a marketing tool to personalize and target clear messaging, resulting in increased casino frequency and impactful experiences.

Fromm: What are the main trends you see in the tribal gaming market?

Goldberg: A big trend at Tribal Gaming is partnering with brands like ours to elevate the gaming experience. Rock & Brews immerses consumers in a concert-style environment with a high-quality audiovisual experience, transporting them back to rock’s defining moments. Rock & Brews offers great food, an extensive beer selection and Rock-tail beverages, where the power of rock and roll brings fun to the game.

Rock & Brews are a key component of frequency, loyalty, and the overall gaming experience, ultimately increasing game floor advancement.

Fromm: When you think about integrating nostalgia with food, music and entertainment at the core of your brand DNA, how do you think about incorporating consumer culture trends into your customer experience? What can other CEOs learn from your approach?

Goldberg: Our team truly takes the needs of our clients to heart. As entrepreneurs and operators, we understand the need for flexibility and work with casino management teams to provide gamers with great food and an exciting gaming experience.

Whether it’s adding a unique rock and roll gaming venue, or a concert bar with a carefully curated music list and “live” band stage, the winning formula is constantly being tailored to each venue. Our design team works with casino executives and tribal leaders to create a fun and exciting gaming environment that players want to experience.