AGEM Announces Results of Comprehensive Economic Impact Study of Gaming Manufacturer / Technology Sector

Led by large slot companies, report reveals $55.8 billion total impact, $20.7 billion direct impact, 61,700 direct employees and average direct annual wage of $91,240

The global gaming supplier industry generated a total economic impact of $55.8 billion, supported more than 202,000 employees, including 61,700 direct employees, and supported a total of $14.1 billion in wages and salaries during 2018, according to a comprehensive report released today by the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM).

The report titled “Impact Analysis: Global Gaming Supplier Industry” was the result of an independent study commissioned by AGEM and conducted by the respected Nevada-based research firm Applied Analysis. The report (https://AGEMonline.org/Impact_Report2019.pdf) reflects a recurring update and the most comprehensive review to date of the global gaming supplier industry that analyzes the size and scope of this technology-driven sector, specifically identifying AGEM members’ global reach spanning every regulated gaming market in the world.

With 175 member companies based in 23 countries, AGEM is anchored by the world’s largest slot machine companies and AGEM Gold Members AGS, Ainsworth Game Technology, Aristocrat Technologies, Everi, International Game Technology PLC (IGT), Konami Gaming, Merkur Gaming, NOVOMATIC Group, Scientific Games and Sega Sammy Creation. The AGEM membership also includes companies active in lotteries, systems, table games, online / interactive, sports betting, mobile apps, game development, machine components and support products and services for the gaming industry.

Highlights of the report:

• Including direct ($20.7 billion), indirect ($15.9 billion) and induced ($19.2 billion) impacts, the global gaming supplier segment generated a total of $55.8 billion of economic output (revenue) in 2018.
• Including direct ($5.6 billion), indirect ($3.9 billion) and induced ($4.6 billion) impacts, the global gaming supplier segment supports a total of approximately $14.1 billion in annual wages and salaries to 61,715 direct, 54,856 indirect and 85,869 induced employees for a total, with the multiplier effect, of 202,440 employees. Over the past 5 years, direct employment has grown from 50,594 to 61,715, an increase of 22 percent.
• The average direct wage per employee in the industry reached approximately $91,240 in 2018, reflecting a significant premium to the current U.S. average annual wage of $51,960, as listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• The industry has an especially strong impact in Nevada and overall employs a broad range of workers, including high-end technical professionals and engineers responsible for hundreds of millions of dollars in research and development expenditures annually.

“Existing suppliers are growing and new players are entering the space and this report accurately reflects a dynamic sector that is focused on innovation for gaming markets throughout the world,” said Marcus Prater, Executive Director of AGEM. “In summary, the report paints a picture of a healthy overall gaming industry where commercial casinos and tribal properties are capitalizing on advanced technologies and game content from a vast array of creative suppliers to grow their business while providing their customers with new and exciting forms of entertainment.”

AGEM Economic Impact Study

• Among AGEM Voting Member companies surveyed for the report:
  • None of the respondents expect to decrease their staffing levels during the next 12 months, with nearly one half of respondents (46 percent) expecting to increase staffing.
  • An overwhelming majority of respondents (92 percent) expect demand for their product and services to improve during the next 12 months.
  • Nearly three-fifths of respondents (58 percent) expect the economic conditions to improve during the next 12 months.
  • Respondents also answered positively about employee-sponsored health care and retirement programs, purchasing from local vendors and increasing employee numbers and salaries.

About the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers:
AGEM is a non-profit international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of electronic gaming devices, lotteries, systems, table games, online technology, sports betting, key components and support products and services for the gaming industry. AGEM works to further the interests of gaming equipment suppliers throughout the world. Through political action, regulatory influence, trade show partnerships, educational alliances, information dissemination and good corporate citizenship, the members of AGEM work together to create benefits for every company within the organization. Together, AGEM has assisted regulatory agencies and participated in the legislative process to solve problems and create a business environment where AGEM members can prosper while providing a strong level of support to education and responsible gaming initiatives. For more information, visit www.AGEM.org.

About Applied Analysis and Methodology:
The 2019 edition of the Industry Impact Analysis: Global Gaming Supplier reports the annual economic impacts of the industry from 2014 to 2018. The latest report incorporates the most recent available information regarding the industry as whole and the companies operating within the market space. Applied Analysis utilized economic modeling techniques to quantify the ripple effect of the industry on the global economy. The current report is not necessarily comparable to prior editions due to a number of factors, including, but not limited to, technological advancements and the expansions of product offerings. Overall, the current research provides the most comprehensive reporting on the industry. Applied Analysis conducts a number of economic and gaming-related analyses. For more information, visit www.AppliedAnalysis.com.