MGM punts on affluent masses in Macau

MGM Resorts International is eyeing to lure more affluent Chinese masses in the coming years as it plays catch-up in Macau’s economic resurgence.

Bloomberg reported that the casino operator is set to open its $3.3 billion integrated resort on the Cotai Strip in the fourth quarter, which, according to Chief Executive Officer James Murren, will deviate from the VIP high rollers.

The multi-billion integrated resort in Cotai Strip is MGM’s second property in the former Portuguese enclave. Based on the casino operator’s plan, MGM Cotai will have 1,400 hotel rooms and suite, as well as house the largest LED Theater screen in the world.

In an interview aired over Bloomberg TV with Rishaad Salamat, Murren said: “Our business model is not predicated on the VIP business. Our strategic plan is built on catering to this tremendously emerging more-affluent Chinese customer, a customer that’s looking for more experimental experiences, not just a selfie moment or a gaming table.”