Artificial intelligence and robotics are disrupting many different industries, with casino workers, in particular, voicing concerns about the future of their jobs. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
Huge change is on the horizon
While the integration of robotics and artificial intelligence into everyday life seemed like a distant reality just a few years ago, that is no longer the case. The launch of ChatGPT to the general public in late 2022 opened people’s eyes to the possibilities of these technologies.
300 million full-time jobs could be automated through AI
Workers in many sectors are now expressing concern about the future of their jobs. The fear is that everything from writers to chefs to accountants to programmers could be phased out to some extent in the coming decades if things continue as they are. Goldman Sachs has He predicted that 300 million full-time jobs could be automated through artificial intelligence. Could casino jobs be among the jobs replaced by machines?
Automation is nothing new
Robots are already of vital importance to many industries. Automotive factories rely heavily on it to assemble vehicles, while Amazon has more than 750,000 robots working in warehouses to manage inventory. Machines can now carry out everyday tasks with a high level of precision.
Often times, it is only after individuals see these robots with their own eyes that they begin to realize what is looming on the horizon. The recent CES 2024 conference in Las Vegas educated many casino workers, with some exhibits showcasing machines that can prepare, cook and deliver food.
Unions around the world are already aware of the potential risks of emerging technology. The Culinary Workers Union, which represents about 40,000 Las Vegas casino employees, threatened to strike for much of last year as it fought for new five-year contracts.
Job protection related to the adoption of new technology
One of the most controversial topics during the negotiations was job protection related to the adoption of new technology. The union eventually got guarantees in new contracts that workers would receive training on any new technology and if new adoption resulted in job losses, people would likely move to a different role or receive additional severance pay.
Changes in customer experience
Some Las Vegas casinos are already using robots in various aspects of their business. They can help reduce costly labor costs and fill gaps when there are staff shortages. Robots prepare and serve drinks at bars at The Venetian and Planet Hollywood, while the M Resort has a robotic security officer patrolling the parking lot. Customers also no longer need to manually check into their rooms.
2019 Independent Nevada The article estimated that between 38% and 65% of jobs in Southern Nevada could be automated by 2035.
Patrons can theoretically spend their entire stay at the casino without having to directly interact with any employees. They can use automatic valet parking upon arrival, self-check-in, order robot-delivered room service, and have machines to prepare their drinks at the bar. If they feel like gambling, they can play electronic table games or slot machines.
Increase profitability
Casinos are always looking for ways to boost their bottom line. Replacing non-customer-facing roles like cooks and cleaners with machines can save significant money without compromising the guest experience.
The savings that can be achieved through automation can be significant.
Robots would not need health or retirement benefits, could work longer hours, not strike, or get paid. MGM Resorts International employs about 75,000 people worldwide and the company has accumulated $478 million in payroll liabilities in 2022. The savings it could realize through automation could be significant.
A powerful robot vacuum costs about $30,000, and a bartender machine typically costs between $100,000 and $200,000. While repairs and replacements will be necessary from time to time, casinos will weigh the trade-offs to see what will be most beneficial to their long-term profitability.
Not quite bleak
While no one will be able to stop the steady march of new technology and jobs will inevitably be lost, it is not all doom and gloom for casino workers. There will always be a place for the human touch in the service industry. People enjoy chatting with bartenders and wait staff, rather than sitting in silence sipping their drinks. They love interacting with dealers and fellow players when gambling.
There are still concerns about underage people bypassing automated bartender systems to purchase alcohol. Bots also struggle to decide when it’s time to interrupt someone after they’ve had one too many drinks.
Many casino workers are not even opposed to some level of automation because it would mean a reduced workload. However, they want to get proper alert from their employers about its arrival. A more efficient workplace, where robots take on some unsavory or labor-intensive jobs, could help boost happiness levels in the workforce.
