Did you miss the Casino Marketing & Technology and Host Player Development Conference last week? Here’s what you didn’t see (and why you’ll want to mark your calendar for 2026).
Three Packed Days of Learning and Networking
Attendees had access to more than 20 breakout sessions, panels, case studies, and hands-on workshops — plus seven structured networking events, from breakfasts and hosted lunches to poolside mixers and interactive games like the now-infamous Host Hustle Showdown (yes, there were props, and no, we’re not spilling what went down).
A Full House & Sold-Out Expo
With every booth filled and every badge spoken for, this year’s exhibitor floor brought together solution-providers and operators in the kind of focused, high-touch setting that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Deana Scott Sets the Stage
Raving CEO Deana Scott opened the event with a challenge: “Past performance is no longer a guarantee of future success. The marketing playbook is being rewritten in real time.” Her call to action? Stay curious. Embrace change. And above all — never lose sight of the human connection that sets our industry apart.
Michael Minniear’s Mic-Drop Moment
Among the most talked-about sessions was Michael Minniear’s deep-dive into player data and predictive analytics. The key insight? Traditional metrics like ADT penalize players twice — once at the machine, and again when the marketing offer misses the mark. His AI-backed approach offered a smarter, fairer way forward.
Several sessions caused draw dropping and “things that make you go hmmm” – look for our follow up articles coming soon!
Attendees Rave About What Makes This Event Different
Two attendees said it best:
"Up your game, attend this conference. Whatever you invest in expanding your perspective to your business will return tenfold if you apply the tactics and strategies. No growth in the comfort zone!"
"The Host & Player Development Conferences are among the most valuable experiences a casino host can have... an eye-opening experience that consistently elevates both personal and professional growth."
Truly, Our Attendees and Supporters Are Amazing
Sincerely, we can’t put on such a fantastic conference without the support of our many sponsors and exhibitors, many who have been with us since our very first marketing conference in 2001. And the attendees and our presenters … they jumped in feet first to every game, roundtable and workshop we created.
They also participated in instant polling and interacted on our app exchanging close to 1,100 messages and uploading over 170 photos! Thank you new friends and old friends.
See You Next Year: July 14–16, 2026
That’s right — we’re coming back to Pechanga! With more sessions, deeper insights, and even more surprises in store, you won’t want to miss next year’s event. Mark your calendar now and register early — this year sold out fast. Visit www.casinomarketingtech.