Casino mogul says experience, not gambling, is key

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Steve Wynn says it's not the gambling that's the key to casinos' success. It's everything else — including giving people a chance to live big.

The billionaire developer who has shaped the Las Vegas Strip gave that advice Tuesday night to a crowd gathered for the gambling industry's annual G2E Global Gaming Expo.

The industry has been rattled by troubles in Atlantic City. Four casinos have closed there this year, eliminating 8,000 casino jobs.

Competition has grown fierce as more states have legalized casino gambling. Industry leaders say an emphasis on non-gambling revenue sources including restaurants, shopping and entertainment is what will win the day for the industry.

Wynn says it's the customer experience, not the slot machines, that make casinos a success.