GGW Voices is an ongoing collaboration between CDC Gaming and Global Gaming Women featuring commentary and insight from women in the gaming industry.
In an industry long dominated by men, the presence of women in the table games sector remains alarmingly low. As the global gambling market continues to expand—projected to reach over $500 billion by 2025—the lack of women in the table games industry isn’t just a numbers game; it’s a missed opportunity for creativity, innovation, and downright fun. By making the gaming world more inclusive, we can change the dynamics at the tables and attract a new generation of players ready to take their seats.
Picture this: a dimly lit casino, the air thick with anticipation and the sound of chips clinking. At one table, a group of players huddles around, their eyes locked on the dealer—a confident, mustachioed man in a bow tie, expertly shuffling cards. Now, imagine if the dealer was a woman. Shock! Awe! But alas, when it comes to table games in our industry, finding women is about as easy as finding a good parking lot on the Strip on a Saturday night.
In the high-stakes world of gambling, where fortunes are won and lost in the blink of an eye, you’d think women would be a staple. After all, we’ve got the poker faces down—just ask any woman who’s ever negotiated with a toddler over bedtime. Yet here we are. Reports indicate that women make up a paltry 10-20% of players in many casino’s tables environments, and their presence as dealers at the tables? Don’t even get me started…It’s like the proverbial needle in a haystack. What gives?
To flip the script, casinos need to shake things up. How about introducing themed nights that celebrate female players? Imagine a “Ladies’ Night” at the tables, complete with glittery decorations and a cocktail/mocktail called “Queen of Hearts”. Picture women confidently striding to the blackjack tables while a DJ spins tracks that make you want to dance between hands. Now that’s the kind of energy that could liven things up!
Moreover, the marketing strategies within the industry could use a makeover as well. Right now, ads and social media seem to target a male audience almost exclusively, showcasing a world of “manly” stakes and rugged camaraderie at the tables. How about a campaign that features women taking the lead? Picture a strong female player confidently raking in the chips while saying, “I’m not just here to play; I’m here to slay!” That might just inspire a few women to head to the tables!
And let’s not forget the power of role models. We need female icons in the industry to inspire the next generation of gamblers. Imagine a world where every casino has a poster of a fierce female player—maybe even with a catchphrase like, “You’ll never see my bluff coming!” If we can show young women that they can not only play or work but also thrive in this space, we’ll change the game—literally.
So, here’s to a future where women don’t just sit at the table—they own it! Let’s shuffle the deck, mix up the game, and make sure everyone gets a seat, because in the end, it’s not just about the chips; it’s about the friendship, laughter, and maybe even a little bit of chaos. And if we can do that while wearing fabulous shoes? Even better! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to find a table that serves “Queen of Hearts”—it’s time to deal me in.
