VEGAS OCT. 8, 2025 GAMING News
SKECHERS Direct: Serving the
Casino, Restaurant and Hospitality Industry BOOTH #1930
An interview with Harold Surabian, National Sales Manager for SKECHERS Direct
GN: What is SKECHERS’ history in the occupational footwear market?
HS: SKECHERS was founded in 1992 as a utility footwear company, making workplace safety footwear integral to our brand identity from inception. Many industry professionals are unaware of our extensive occupational footwear portfolio Our
on Page 13
AMERIND’s 10 Casino Safety Tips to Cut Liability Costs
By Robert Dahl, Chief Operating Officer, AMERIND
Re-evaluate your casino’s safety strategy and stay cost-conscious by following these 10 tips to prevent workers compensation and liability incidents:
1. Perform routine and frequent safety inspections. Document safety concerns and follow up. Personnel should walk your entire property, inside and outside, daily to look for hazards and correct them
2. Request an annual audit of your property and equipment. Annual audits allow a casino to narrow down potential issues
b e
employee and patron safety
on Page 13
FBM Debuts Multiple Slots and Its First Lotto Game at Show
#2848
An interview with Vitor Francisco, Director, FBM
GN: What can visitors expect from FBM® at G2E Las Vegas?
VF: FBM prepared a powerful display for G2E this year. We have over 40 Auria casino machines running multiple products. At booth #2848, casino operators and agents can try new slot products designed to deliver engaging sessions through appealing features and compelling visuals, such as “Lanterns of Fú™” and “Hippo’s Lock™ ” This G2E is also the debut stage for “Bull’s Champion Lotto™” –FBM’s first lotto game created for the land-based
on Page 13
MGM Resorts International Chief Operating Officer Corey Sanders to Retire
MGM Resorts International announced that Corey Sanders, Chief Operating Officer, will retire from the company after more than 30 years of dedicated service and leadership. Sanders has agreed to remain Chief Operating Officer through December 31, 2025 and to serve as an advisor to the President and Chief Executive Officer through December 31, 2026
“It’s impossible to overstate what Corey has meant to this company over the last 30-plus years He has been a constant presence, providing foundational leadership for all the key moments that have defined our history – from our acquisitions of Mirage Group and Mandalay Resort Group to our regional property openings and expansions like Springfield, National Harbor, Empire City and Borgata,” said Bill Hornbuckle, President and Chief Executive Officer, MGM Resorts “More importantly, Corey helped us put all the different pieces together to create
on Page 13
BOOTH
Multigame Madness and Beyond:
The Titles Drawing Eyes on the Casino Floor
A t a g l a n c e , V e l v i x ’ s M u l t i g a m e
M a d n e s s p l a t f o r m i s a p o w e r h o u s e o f
v a r i e t y – a c u r a t e d c o l l e c t i o n o f f a n -
f a v o r i t e t i t l e s b u n d l e d i n t o o n e h i g h -
p e r f o r m a n c e c a b i n e t B u t b e n e a t h
t h e f l a s h i n g l i g h t s a n d d y n a m i c
b o n u s r o u n d s l i e s s o m e t h i n g d e e p e r :
a f o r w a r d - l o o k i n g p r o d u c t
s t r a t e g y a i m e d a t l o n g - t e r m
e n g a g e m e n t , c r o s s - m a r k e t
a d a p t a b i l i t y a n d c o n t e n t t h a t
c o n n e c t s w i t h p l a y e r s a r o u n d t h e w o r l d
A s t h e s l o t m a n u f a c t u r e r
c o n t i n u e s i t s g l o b a l e x p a n -
s i o n , V e l v i x i s i n v e s t i n g h e a v i -
l y i n g a m e o p t i m i z a t i o n f o r
n e w a n d e m e r g i n g m a r k e t s , i n c l u d i n g M e x i c o a n d L a t i n A m e r i c a T h e s e r e g i o n s b r i n g
u n i q u e p l a y e r p r e f e r e n c e s a n d r e g u l a t o r y r e q u i r e m e n t s – a n d V e l v i x i s m e e t i n g t h e
c h a l l e n g e h e a d - o n b y a d a p ti n g e x i s t i n g t i t l e s a n d f i n e -
t u n i n g m a t h m o d e l s f o r l o c a li z e d a p p e a l a n d s t r o n g e r p e r -
f o r m a n c e
“ W e ’ r e n o t j u s t t r a n s l a t i n g
c o n t e n t – w e ’ r e e n g i n e e r i n g i t
t o f i t m a r k e t b e h a v i o r , ” s a y s
M e x i c o . ”
That same mindset is driving a wave of revitalized content within the company’s existing library Early games that initially generated buzz but lacked staying power are now being reworked with new math models designed to
I n p a r a l l e l , V e l v i x i s a l s o e x p a n d -
i n g i t s c o n t e n t c r e a t i o n f o o t p r i n t
b e y o n d t r a d i t i o n a l v i d e o s l o t s W i t h
n e w p r o j e c t s f o c u s e d o n c u s t o m
g a m e s f o r t h e k e n o a n d l o t t e r y s e g -
m e n t s , t h e c o m p a n y i s l e v e r a g i n g i t s
a g i l e d e v e l o p m e n t p r o c e s s t o c r e a t e
b e s p o k e e x p e r i e n c e s t a i l o r e d t o
n i c h e g a m i n g v e r t i c a l s – a m o v e t h a t
s e t s i t a p a r t f r o m s l o w e r - m o v i n g
c o m p e t i t o r s Y e t t h r o u g h a l l t h i s d i v e r s i f i c at i o n , V e l v i x r e m a i n s f i r m l y c o m m i t t e d t o
M e l i s s a L a w r e s , S e n i o r M a n a g e r o f
L a n d B a s e d G a m i n g O p e r a t i o n s . “ O u r
g o a l i s t o m a k e e v e r y t i t l e f e e l n a t i v e
t o t h e p l a y e r , w h e t h e r t h e y ’ r e i n
N o r t h e r n C a l i f o r n i a o r N o r t h e r n
increase player retention and session
t i m e . B y m a k i n g t h e s e t i t l e s m o r e “sticky,” Velvix is aiming for that elusive
b a l a n c e o f e n t e r t a i n m e n t a n d p r o fitability
Product Madness Launches NFL Super Bowl Slots
Product Madness™, Aristocrat Leisure Limited’s (Aristocrat) market-leading free-to-play social casino business, announced the official worldwide launch of NFL Super Bowl Slots™, the first-ever NFL-licensed free-to-play (for 18+) social casino mobile game Developed in collaboration with the National Football League (NFL) and the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), this innovative freeto-play mobile application invites social casino players to play their fandom –anytime, anywhere To celebrate the launch, Product Madness has teamed up with standout NFL Linebacker Micah Parsons as a brand ambassador to help spotlight the game’s unique blend of sports passion and free-to-play social casino entertainment
“With NFL Super Bowl Slots, we set out to do more than just build a game – we wanted to create a new way for fans to experience the sport they love,” said Matt Labbat, Senior Vice President and Head of Product Madness. “Every d e t
pride and authenticity into one free-to-
play mobile game experience.”
NFL Super Bowl Slots reimagines social casino entertainment by blending the electrifying energy of the NFL gameday experience with the excitement of social casino slots Available for free to download and play on both Android and iOS, the game offers a variety of free-to-play slot games to choose from, all of which allow players t o c u s t o m i z e t h e i r e x p e r i e
y selecting any of the NFL’s 32 teams, unlocking fully branded content tailored to each franchise
“NFL Super Bowl Slots represents a fresh take on gaming at the league that will reach new fans who can engage with their favorite teams through exciting and interactive gameplay,” said Ed Kiang, Vice President of Video Gaming at the NFL “Through our partnership with Aristocrat and the expertise from Product Madness, we can provide fans (18+) a free-to-play gaming experience right at their fingertips that will keep them engaged with our sport while also enjoying the liveliness and enthusiasm that is embedded in social casino
w h a t i t d o e s b e s t : C l a s s
I I I g a m e s . W h i l e o t h e r s e x p e r i m e n t w i t h b r o a d -
e r c l a s s i f i c a t i o n s , V e l v i x
c o n t i n u e s t o b u i l d i t s i d e n t i t y a r o u n d t h e
t h r i l l a n d d e p t h o f f u l l -
f e a t u r e d C l a s s I I I g a mi n g e x p e r i e n c e s F o r
V e l v i x , t h i s i s n ’ t a l i m i t a -
t i o n – i t ’ s a d e l i b e r a t e
c h o i c e t o s t a y f o c u s e d
o n
From enhanced versions of existing hits such as “Show Me The Piggy Deluxe” to region-specifi c g a m e s s t i l l u
wraps, Velvix is proving that smart content strategy isn’t just about quantity –it’s about thoughtful evolution
And as G2E Las Vegas attendees can see firsthand, Multigame Madness
entertainment ”
From the moment users download the game, they are met with the familiar sights and sounds of the NFL across multiple social slot game experiences
Complete with unique bonus features such as “Quarterback Rush” seasons and “Daily Drills,” while the game outcomes are random, every element of the gameplay is curated to recreate the competitiveness and pride of gameday
S t a r t i n g a s a “ P r o s p e c t , ”
unlocking new content and building their legacy all the way up to “Hall of Famer ” To elevate the authenticity, NFL Super Bowl Slots
is just the beginning
successful partnership with Aristocrat G a m i n g , w h o s e N F L - t h e m e d l a n dbased slot machines have been available at casinos since 2023 N o w , A r i s t o c r a t ’ s s
business, Product Madness, brings that
N F L P A a n d N F L F i l m s , s p o t l i g h t i n g iconic plays, celebrations, rivalry wins and unforgettable moments
A s t h e g a m e d e b u t s g l o b a l l y , social casino players can expect seas o n a l u p d a t e s a n d s u r p r i s e a p p e a rances from Aristocrat’s legendary chara c t e r s i n c l u d i n g B u f f a l o ™ , L i g h t n i n g Link™ and Dragon Link™, adding more excitement to the social casino experience This launch builds on the NFL’s
mobile game space. As with all Product Madness titles, the free-to-play mobile game NFL Super Bowl Slots was developed with a strong commitment to responsible gameplay, featuring player controls and educational tools to support a safer and enjoyable play environment
F
aristocrat com
Peachtree Group Closes $176.5 Million CPACE Loan for Renovated Rio Hotel & Casino Tower in Las Vegas
Peachtree Group has originated the largest credit transaction in its history, c
Commercial Property Assessed Clean
Companies’ recently renovated 2,520room Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas
The deal, finalized in less than 60 days, ranks among the largest CPACE financings ever completed in the United States.
The Rio, now u
t h e D
s
n a
o n s b Hyatt brand, is a casino resort featuring two hotel towers, I p a n e m a
n d Masquerade, connected by a casino,
included a full transf
Retroactive CPACE funding offers a distinct advantage by allowing 100% of t h e p r o c e e d s t o b e r e i m
s e d f o r completed project costs.
“This transaction is not only a historic milestone for Peachtree Group, but also a testament to the ecosystem we have built over the past 18 years,”
Principal and Chief Executive Officer
t i o n o f t h e I p a n e m a T o w e r guest suites, a reimagined casino floor and significant upgrades to multiple food and beverage venues. The comp r e h e n s i v e p r o p e r t y i m p r o v e m e n t plan also delivered exterior enhancements, modernization of the central heating and cooling plant, electrical infrastructure upgrades and renovations to the convention center
“This deal highlights an inflection p o i n t f o r C P A C E , w i t h s o m e o f t h e nation’s largest financial institutions consenting to its use because they see the clear benefit to the capital stack,”
s a i d J a r e d S c h l o s s e r , H e a d o f Originations and CPACE for Peachtree “By closing quickly on a marquee hospitality asset, we were able to strengthen the position of both the owner and its lenders.”
The CPACE loan retroactively funded the renovations enabling the owne r s t o p a y d o w n t h e i r s e n i o r l o a n
cally integrated plat-
developed the infra-
leader in the private
speed, creativity and ertainty of execution sitions us to provide l solutions that create value for our investors and partners across market cycles ”
The CPACE market has surpassed $10 billion in cumulative U.S. originations in just over a decade, according to the C-PACE Alliance, with strong growth expected as more institutional owners and lenders recognize its value “ W e s e e t r
t y ahead for retroactive CPACE and its use in funding new commercial real estate development,” Schlosser said. “It’s an attractive alternative to more expensive forms of capital ”
Peachtree is one of the most active CPACE lenders in the country, with more than $1 5 billion in originations The firm’s credit platform spans CPACE, bridge, mezzanine and construction
solutions across market cycles. F o
www peachtreegroup com
Caesars Entertainment Debuts IGT’s Kitty Glitter Grand Slot Across its Online Casino Platforms and Inside its Atlantic City Resorts
Caesars Entertainment, Inc. announced it is the first in the industry to launch IGT’s newest installment of its beloved
s
game is now live across Caesars Palace
&
Casino in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia and Ontario. It’s also available at Caesars Rewards destinations in Atlantic City, including Caesars and Harrah’s, with Tropicana set to join the lineup soon, subject to final regulatory approval
exclusive, first-to-market gaming experiences that our guests can enjoy both on the casino floor and from the comfort of their home This launch unders c
best-in-class entertainment wherever our players choose to engage ” F o r m o r e t h a n 2 0 y
, K
The Plaza Hotel & Casino has partnered with Aristocrat to open the Buffalo & Mo’ Friends Slot Area in downtown Las Vegas The space launched with a ribbon-cutting event on September 4
Located between the casino cage and the Plaza Rewards Players Club, the Buffalo & Mo’ Friends area features 63
Extreme, Mo’ Mummy, Spooky Link,
Dragon Link and Jackpot Carnival. The area has been designed with themed graphics, lighting and game sounds to create a distinctive experience for players
J o n a t h a n J o s s e l , P l a z a H o t e l &
Casino Chief Executive Officer, stated, “Our goal on the casino floor is to offer the newest and most popular games to our guests and our players are big fans of the various Buffalo and Mo’ Mummy games ”
This debut marks IGT’s first simultaneous exclusive launch of a game b
y Glitter has been a fan favorite in brickand-mortar casinos, and its enduring popularity continues to captivate players This latest installment offers an enhanced gameplay experience with recognizable collection features that players already know and love from the
h e
United States As a result, Caesars is currently the only place where fans of the Kitty Glitter™ franchise can experience this latest installment, whether in person or online
“ T h e p o p u l a r i t y o f K i t t y G l i t t e r
Grand speaks for itself across gaming floors at our Caesars Rewards destinations, which is why we couldn’t be happier that our players will be the first to enjoy the newest title in this renowned b r a n d ’ s h i s t o r y , ” s a i d M a t t h e w Sunderland, Senior Vice President and C h i e f i G a m i n g O f f i c e r a t C a e s a r s
Digital “We know how impactful exclusive launches can be, so we’re grateful to our partners at IGT for their trust in partnering with us on their first simultaneous online and in-casino launch in the United States We’re committed to bringing first-to-market, unforgettable experiences to our online casino players that can’t be found anywhere else ”
“ T h e e x c l u s i v e l a u n c h o f K i t t y Glitter Grand is another shining example of how we’re strengthening the p o w e r f u l c o n n e c t i o n b e t w e e n o u r world-class destinations in Atlantic City and beyond with our dynamic digital platforms,” said Barron Fuller, Regional P r e s i d e n t a t C a e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t “We’re uniquely positioned to deliver
, Aristocrat Chief Revenue Officer, added, “We pride
invite players to step into a world of fun with favorite
gameplay features.” T h i s l a
n
h
o l l o w s Aristocrat’s recent developments, including Sky River Casino d
enhancements Both new players and fans of the original can enjoy an added wheel bonus and random wilds in the base game, which help boost these themes to the next level
“We’re thrilled to partner with Caesars on the exclusive launch of Kitty Glitter Grand, a title that builds on one of IGT’s most iconic brands,” said Nick Khin, Chief Executive Officer of Gaming at IGT “This first-of-its-kind simultaneous launch across online and land-based channels in the U S reflects our commitment to innovation and delivering engaging content that resonates with players wherever they choose to play.”
Designed for ease of use, Caesars’ online casino apps and desktop plat-
Caesars Rewards Credits through both online and in-person play, which can be redeemed for unforgettable experiences at more than 50 Caesars destinations across North America, from luxury stays and fine dining to world-class entertainment and more
.caesars.com.
California and Aristocrat’s The Baron Upright making its European debut in
hotelcasino com
3. Focus on guest safety. Focus on eliminating common hazards for guests by making housekeeping an organization-wide priority Basic safety protocol, such as using signage for wet floors, can prevent a liability dispute.
4. Demonstrate care for guests using wheelchairs or scooters. Those who lack mobility are more vulnerable to fall hazards This greatly increases a business’ risk and liability Get all equipment from a reputable vendor, and ensure you have an excellent inspection and maintenance program
5. Ensure safety of guest transportation and valet service. Shuttle bus or golf cart services are a great guest amenity But their safety and reliability are dependent on many factors, including guest mobility, eye-
(Cont’d from p 1)
universe In summary, G2E visitors can expect innovative products with engaging features and reliable performance.
GN: Can you unveil more about each slot novelty you are bringing?
VF: Definitely “Lanterns of Fú” brings the Intensity and Harmony themes in a 3-bagger mechanic, where players can use the Buy Bonus feature to access this game mode directly and enjoy the r e w a r d i n g e f f e c t s o f t h e R a d i a n c e , Strength and Fortune lanterns
SKECHERS Direct (Cont’d from p 1)
comprehensive product line addresses the specific needs of casino, restaurant and hospitality employees who require stylish, slip-resistant and comfortable footwear for extended shifts
G N : P l e a s e d e s c r i b e t h e S K E C H E R S Direct Corporate Shoe Program and its eligibility requirements
H S : T h e C o r p o r a t e S h o e P r o g r a m serves companies with 200 or more e m p l o y e e s t h r o u g h o u t t h e U n i t e d States and Canada This cost-free program eliminates setup fees, minimum purchase requirements and administrative costs Participating employees receive direct access to a 30% Discount on SKECHERS Slip Resistant Work shoes and Safety Toe Footwear year-round.
O r g a n i z a t i o n s w i t h f e w e r t h a n 2 0 0
MGM Resorts (Cont’d from p 1)
sight and hand- or grab-rail availability It is critical that drivers don’t drive too f a s t o r t a
securely seated Training staff to control hazards goes a long way toward reducing risk Valet service is one of the
Train staff on proper check in/out procedures
6. Be mindful of ergonomic concerns for staff. It is essential to train staff on proper lifting techniques and use of machinery to
ergonomic tools, such as anti-fatigue
ment, etc
7. Follow up with accident or incident investigations If your casino is not identifying risks that have caused accidents, they are bound to occur again. Ensure accident
“Hippo’s Lock” is a theme with a c a s h - o n - r e e l s m e c h a n i c w h e r e a l l action happens around Super Hippo, a game character ready to spread prizes with the Extra Spins, Power Spins and Rewind features.
Alongside FBM’s key highlights, we are also presenting “Ji Hao Link,” “Xing Fú Fortune Money Trees” and “Croc’s Lock,” in a portfolio of fun, distinctive and performance-driven casino slots
GN: Why did you decide to launch on FBM’s first land-based lotto product?
VF: “Bull’s Champion Lotto” is a conse-
employees qualify for our alternative 25% discount program
GN: How does the program accommodate specific uniform requirements?
HS: We develop customized ecommerce platforms aligned with each organization’s uniform specifications For example, companies requiring black slip-resistant footwear will have product selections curated to exclude non-compliant options, preventing inadvertent purchases of inappropriate styles. This targeted approach distinguishes our program from standard industry offerings
GN: What are the typical fulfillment timeframes for online orders?
HS: Standard orders ship within 24 to 48 hours and include free shipping and free returns without restocking fees
one company and one culture As a leader and as a person, Corey unders t o o d t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f c a r i n g f o r employees and treating people with respect He will be deeply missed ” Sanders is currently MGM Resorts’ Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the company’s Las Vegas and regional properties as well as multiple corporate departments, including Hospitality, Gaming, Human Resources and Strategic Initiatives. Prior to that, he served as the
investigation is completed for all incidents affecting guests and employees Confirm that the root cause is determined, and changes are implemented to correct the deficiency
8. Take advantage of free safety education opportunities. Every year, human error while completing mundane tasks costs businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars in
advantage of any free safety training opportunities
9. Adopt an employee wellness program.
quence of the U S market potential We have our games available in Florida and noticed a particular interest in this game type, so we decided to take the risk. “Bull’s Champion Lotto” has a specific player audience in mind. It blends the simplicity and thrill of traditional lotto with new features such as the “Lucky Token,” which increases player e n g a g e m e n t a n d f l o o r p e r f o r m a n c e through access to a Hold and Spin bonus The exhibition of this product at G2E Las Vegas marks FBM’s entry into a n e w v e r t i c a l a n d s h o w c a s e s t h e b r a n d ’ s a b i l i t y t o i n n o v a t e b e y o n d slots
preferring to try products
pur-
locations across the United States and Canada provide in-person shopping options. With 15 locations in the Las Vegas area alone, our retail presence
pared to our competitors
GN: What is the latest technology or new features that your work shoes have?
HS: We are pleased to introduce our SKECHERS Hands-Free Slip-In technology, now integrated across dozens of SKECHERS Work styles This innovative feature enables users to effortlessly don their work shoes without requiring manual adjustment or bending, representing a significant advancement in workplace footwear convenience and accessibility
10. Implement a return-to-work program
employee’s rehabilitation and recovery, while lowering or eliminating the indemnity cost of a claim by promoting a prompt return to work in a modified role Creating a return-to-work program that includes clear goals, communication and empathy from supervisors will also increase work efficiency, prevent the likelihood of turnover and reduce indirect costs
Expand your coverage with AMERIND Ask your broker about our options and
product line at www AMERIND com
.amerind.com.
GN What is FBM’s broader vision for the U S market?
VF: The U S market is a priority for us Currently, our games are available in Florida and Oklahoma, and our ambitions go further We signed a distribution agreement and continue working actively on the development of innovative, reliable and top-performing gaming offers that allow us to consolidate our presence and grow FBM’s footprint in this market.
F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , g o t o w w w fbmgaming com or stop by booth #2848
GN: What additional program benefits do you provide?
.skechersdirect.com, email info@skechers direct.com, call 855.759.7463 or stop by
company’s Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer In his tenure with MGM Resorts, Sanders has also served as Chief Operating Officer for the company’s Core Brands, Executive Vice President of Operations for MGM MIRAGE, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for MGM Grand Resorts, Executive Vice President and CFO for MGM Grand, Assistant Vice President of Corporate Finance and Tax Director for MGM Grand
F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , g o t o w w w .mgmresorts.com.
FBM
