Back when the Mirage was rumored to be for sale there was a lot of discussion about how much the sale price would be, and how it would compare to other similar properties, say Cosmopolitan for example.
With Phil Ruffin's $1.3 billion offer to buy the Mirage rejected, we can determine that it would be worth more than that.
Cosmopolitan sold for $1.73 billion back in 2014. Although MGM Resorts has repeatedly stated that Mirage is not for sale, I would think they would need an offer of around that figure to raise their eyebrows.
If I had to place a value on Mirage I would place it right around that $1.73 billion mark. Now this is an unscientific estimate. I haven't dug into the financials like I probably should have, but I think it would be a fair price for the Mirage if it were ever to be on the market.
Showing posts with label Mirage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mirage. Show all posts
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Casinos Test Drink Ticket System
A few months ago news spread that Mirage was testing a drink voucher system at one of their video poker bars.
Instead of the bartender giving free drinks while you are playing, you would have to "earn" the drink by playing a certain amount that would trigger your machine to print out a drink voucher.
Now several message boards are discussing a similar drink voucher system being installed at Cosmopolitan at their Bond bar.
I'm hoping this trend won't continue and that these experiments with drink vouchers at video poker bars won't prove to be successful. I really don't see how having a system like this is going to save the casino that much money.
Sure, some people like to take advantage by putting a $20 in and getting a few free drinks by slow playing the machine, but I think bartenders are pretty good at making sure people are actually playing before comping them.
While a drink ticket system is certainly annoying to players, it's not completely unheard of in Las Vegas as most sportsbooks around town have implemented a similar policy for better or worse.
Instead of the bartender giving free drinks while you are playing, you would have to "earn" the drink by playing a certain amount that would trigger your machine to print out a drink voucher.
Now several message boards are discussing a similar drink voucher system being installed at Cosmopolitan at their Bond bar.
I'm hoping this trend won't continue and that these experiments with drink vouchers at video poker bars won't prove to be successful. I really don't see how having a system like this is going to save the casino that much money.
Sure, some people like to take advantage by putting a $20 in and getting a few free drinks by slow playing the machine, but I think bartenders are pretty good at making sure people are actually playing before comping them.
While a drink ticket system is certainly annoying to players, it's not completely unheard of in Las Vegas as most sportsbooks around town have implemented a similar policy for better or worse.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Fontainebleau For Sale - Who Will Buy?
The Wall Street Journal reported today that Carl Icahn is looking to sell the Fontainebleau. The property will be listed by CBRE for $650 million.
I immediately starting thinking about who might be a candidate to buy and finish the stalled Fontainebleau project. I'm going to spend the rest of this blog post speculating about which companies might be in the mix.
MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment are the two largest Las Vegas hotel/casino companies but neither of them are really looking to expand in Vegas at the moment. Plus MGM will be completing a REIT conversion soon, and Caesars is going through a partial bankruptcy. I don't see either of these giants buying Fontainebleau.
Wynn Resorts boss Steve Wynn has long said he doesn't want to build in Las Vegas again. His frustration with the Macau government and endless headaches getting his Boston project off the ground might have him singing a different tune though. The rub: Wynn likes to build from scratch and the Fontainebleau structure might not be a blank enough slate for architect DeRuyter Butler and designer Roger Thomas to work their magic.
Like Wynn, Las Vegas Sands and Sheldon Adelson have shown a lack of interest in building anything new in Vegas. I actually think the Fontainebleau would be a great fit though. LVS has deep pockets so finishing the resort wouldn't be a problem, and the location near the planned convention center expansion would fit right in with their convention heavy business model. The best part: They could call the property Sands Hotel and Casino resurrecting an iconic Las Vegas brand.
Speaking of iconic properties: Boyd Gaming has been looking to get back on the Strip ever since they demolished The Stardust and failed to replace it with Echelon Place, later selling the property. While I would be in favor of Boyd buying Fontainebleau and renaming it The Stardust (or Borgata Las Vegas perhaps?) it seems unlikely they would undertake such a large project so shortly after abandoning Echelon.
Penn National was seriously considering purchasing Fontainebleau before ultimately losing out to Carl Icahn. Since then they have entered the Las Vegas market with purchases of M Resort and later Tropicana. If Penn was unwilling to spend $150 million to buy Fontainebleau in 2010 I'm guessing they don't want to spend $650 million in 2015.
Treasure Island owner Phil Ruffin was in the news earlier this week as it was reported he made a recent $1.3 billion failed bid to buy The Mirage. If Ruffin has that much cash to spend could he possibly want to buy the Fontainebleau? It seems like a real possibility to me.
Other regional operators like Eldorado Resorts, Golden Entertainment, Full House Resorts, and Pinnacle Entertainment are likely eager to get into the Las Vegas market but probably don't have the money to make a deal like Fontainebleau happen. Could one of these companies partner up with a rich benefactor like Ruffin to get it done?
Lastly and perhaps most likely to buy Fontainebleau are private equity real estate companies. Cosmopolitan parent company Blackstone might be a possibility if they are looking to expand their casino holdings. Once rumored Mirage buyer Starwood Capital might also be looking to buy.
I immediately starting thinking about who might be a candidate to buy and finish the stalled Fontainebleau project. I'm going to spend the rest of this blog post speculating about which companies might be in the mix.
MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment are the two largest Las Vegas hotel/casino companies but neither of them are really looking to expand in Vegas at the moment. Plus MGM will be completing a REIT conversion soon, and Caesars is going through a partial bankruptcy. I don't see either of these giants buying Fontainebleau.
Wynn Resorts boss Steve Wynn has long said he doesn't want to build in Las Vegas again. His frustration with the Macau government and endless headaches getting his Boston project off the ground might have him singing a different tune though. The rub: Wynn likes to build from scratch and the Fontainebleau structure might not be a blank enough slate for architect DeRuyter Butler and designer Roger Thomas to work their magic.
Like Wynn, Las Vegas Sands and Sheldon Adelson have shown a lack of interest in building anything new in Vegas. I actually think the Fontainebleau would be a great fit though. LVS has deep pockets so finishing the resort wouldn't be a problem, and the location near the planned convention center expansion would fit right in with their convention heavy business model. The best part: They could call the property Sands Hotel and Casino resurrecting an iconic Las Vegas brand.
Speaking of iconic properties: Boyd Gaming has been looking to get back on the Strip ever since they demolished The Stardust and failed to replace it with Echelon Place, later selling the property. While I would be in favor of Boyd buying Fontainebleau and renaming it The Stardust (or Borgata Las Vegas perhaps?) it seems unlikely they would undertake such a large project so shortly after abandoning Echelon.
Penn National was seriously considering purchasing Fontainebleau before ultimately losing out to Carl Icahn. Since then they have entered the Las Vegas market with purchases of M Resort and later Tropicana. If Penn was unwilling to spend $150 million to buy Fontainebleau in 2010 I'm guessing they don't want to spend $650 million in 2015.
Treasure Island owner Phil Ruffin was in the news earlier this week as it was reported he made a recent $1.3 billion failed bid to buy The Mirage. If Ruffin has that much cash to spend could he possibly want to buy the Fontainebleau? It seems like a real possibility to me.
Other regional operators like Eldorado Resorts, Golden Entertainment, Full House Resorts, and Pinnacle Entertainment are likely eager to get into the Las Vegas market but probably don't have the money to make a deal like Fontainebleau happen. Could one of these companies partner up with a rich benefactor like Ruffin to get it done?
Lastly and perhaps most likely to buy Fontainebleau are private equity real estate companies. Cosmopolitan parent company Blackstone might be a possibility if they are looking to expand their casino holdings. Once rumored Mirage buyer Starwood Capital might also be looking to buy.
Thursday, October 22, 2015
MGM set to Charge Parking Garage Fees?
MGM Resorts International will soon charge for parking at their Las Vegas self park garages, according to a report from Vegas Tripping.
Casino companies are willing to nickel and dime their customers endlessly in a quest for higher revenues. Over the years gaming odds on the Strip have declined consistently, and more recently resort fees have become commonplace at almost every Las Vegas hotel.
It's no surprise the bean counters would eventually try to get their hands on one of the remaining free perks left in Vegas.
Gamblers will be upset, but MGM Resorts CEO Jim Murren has recently talked about focusing more on non-gaming clientele saying, "Many of them have no interest in gambling and that's perfectly fine with me."
There might be hope though. The Nevada Gaming Control Board has strict rules regarding access to gaming and according to their guidelines:
"...all gaming establishments in Nevada must remain open to the general public and the access of the general public to gaming activities must not be restricted in any manner..."
I'm not sure if charging for parking would count as restricting access, but hey it's something. Could Gaming Control block MGM from charging for parking?
Casino companies are willing to nickel and dime their customers endlessly in a quest for higher revenues. Over the years gaming odds on the Strip have declined consistently, and more recently resort fees have become commonplace at almost every Las Vegas hotel.
It's no surprise the bean counters would eventually try to get their hands on one of the remaining free perks left in Vegas.
Gamblers will be upset, but MGM Resorts CEO Jim Murren has recently talked about focusing more on non-gaming clientele saying, "Many of them have no interest in gambling and that's perfectly fine with me."
There might be hope though. The Nevada Gaming Control Board has strict rules regarding access to gaming and according to their guidelines:
"...all gaming establishments in Nevada must remain open to the general public and the access of the general public to gaming activities must not be restricted in any manner..."
I'm not sure if charging for parking would count as restricting access, but hey it's something. Could Gaming Control block MGM from charging for parking?
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Tennis Court Arena at Caesars Palace
A temporary tennis court arena was recently installed in front of Caesars Palace to host a celebrity charity event.
Billie Jean King and Elton John hosted Mylan WTT Smash Hits benefiting the Elton John Aids Foundation (EJAF) and local AIDS organizations. The event has raised more than $13 million since its inception.
This is the first time the event has been in Las Vegas. This year's event raised over $1 million.
Andre Agassi, Stefanie Graf, Martina Navratilova, Tracy Austin, James Blake, Mardy Fish, Lindsay Davenport and Andy Roddick were among the tennis stars playing.
Tennis Channel tweeted this picture of the setup during the day. Appropriately the Elton John Caesars marquee was in the background along with Mirage and Treasure Island.
Caesars Palace tweeted this picture of the arena during the event at night, with Caesars in the background.
Andre Agassi tweeted this picture of himself with wife Steffi Graf and Flamingo in the background.
Billie Jean King and Elton John hosted Mylan WTT Smash Hits benefiting the Elton John Aids Foundation (EJAF) and local AIDS organizations. The event has raised more than $13 million since its inception.
This is the first time the event has been in Las Vegas. This year's event raised over $1 million.
Andre Agassi, Stefanie Graf, Martina Navratilova, Tracy Austin, James Blake, Mardy Fish, Lindsay Davenport and Andy Roddick were among the tennis stars playing.
Tennis Channel tweeted this picture of the setup during the day. Appropriately the Elton John Caesars marquee was in the background along with Mirage and Treasure Island.
Caesars Palace tweeted this picture of the arena during the event at night, with Caesars in the background.
Andre Agassi tweeted this picture of himself with wife Steffi Graf and Flamingo in the background.
Sunday, October 04, 2015
Cody Saintgnue 1OAK Mirage Incident
There was an interesting article in the Review Journal about an incident that took place involving actor Cody Saintgnue at 1OAK nightclub at The Mirage last June.
Saintgnue is an actor on the MTV series Teen Wolf and has also had parts on Southland, House, and Criminal Minds. In a recent lawsuit he claims that he was assaulted by 1OAK and Mirage security after a dispute about his bill.
Saintgnue was allegedly invited into a VIP area but only stayed there for a few minutes. After leaving that area the nightclub tried to charge him exorbitant fees for entering that area, which Saintgnue refused to pay.
That's when he was escorted out of the club and allegedly told never to return to any MGM Resorts International property. Some of the incident can be seen in the this video:
Saintgnue is an actor on the MTV series Teen Wolf and has also had parts on Southland, House, and Criminal Minds. In a recent lawsuit he claims that he was assaulted by 1OAK and Mirage security after a dispute about his bill.
Saintgnue was allegedly invited into a VIP area but only stayed there for a few minutes. After leaving that area the nightclub tried to charge him exorbitant fees for entering that area, which Saintgnue refused to pay.
That's when he was escorted out of the club and allegedly told never to return to any MGM Resorts International property. Some of the incident can be seen in the this video:
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Jim Murren News3LV Interview Highlights
MGM Resorts International chief executive officer Jim Murren did a TV interview with Jeff Gillan of KSNV News3LV the other day.
Some highlights:
Despite lowered revenues over the past year that he called growing pains, Murren is still bullish on Macau citing infrastructure improvements: a bridge from Hong Kong, development of the neighboring Hengqin island, a high speed rail network, expansion of the airport and light rail. Macau makes up about 20% of the company's revenue.
Talking about Las Vegas Murren highlighted a growing convention business and increased flight activity at McCarran International Airport. He talked about shifting demographics noting that the average age of the Las Vegas tourist is lowering. People are coming to Las Vegas for shows, entertainment, conventions, music festivals, sporting events - "Many of them have no interest in gambling and that's perfectly fine with me."
Murren still thinks Las Vegas will get a hockey team and he wants to attract locals with the new arena and park. Speaking about complaints that there will be a lack of parking at the arena, Murren said, "What's wrong with walking? Get off your butt and walk a little bit. We have garages up and down the Strip, which by the way are free."
And casinos, restaurants and bars attached to those garages!
Murren confirmed that he's not selling The Mirage.
Talking about a new name for Monte Carlo Murren said there will be an announcement by the end of the year. They're close to selecting a name that will attract millennials, people who are sports and entertainment oriented, and people who are spontaneous.
Related: Jim Murren Nevada Public Radio interview highlights from back in June.
Some highlights:
Despite lowered revenues over the past year that he called growing pains, Murren is still bullish on Macau citing infrastructure improvements: a bridge from Hong Kong, development of the neighboring Hengqin island, a high speed rail network, expansion of the airport and light rail. Macau makes up about 20% of the company's revenue.
Talking about Las Vegas Murren highlighted a growing convention business and increased flight activity at McCarran International Airport. He talked about shifting demographics noting that the average age of the Las Vegas tourist is lowering. People are coming to Las Vegas for shows, entertainment, conventions, music festivals, sporting events - "Many of them have no interest in gambling and that's perfectly fine with me."
Murren still thinks Las Vegas will get a hockey team and he wants to attract locals with the new arena and park. Speaking about complaints that there will be a lack of parking at the arena, Murren said, "What's wrong with walking? Get off your butt and walk a little bit. We have garages up and down the Strip, which by the way are free."
And casinos, restaurants and bars attached to those garages!
Murren confirmed that he's not selling The Mirage.
Talking about a new name for Monte Carlo Murren said there will be an announcement by the end of the year. They're close to selecting a name that will attract millennials, people who are sports and entertainment oriented, and people who are spontaneous.
Related: Jim Murren Nevada Public Radio interview highlights from back in June.
Tuesday, August 04, 2015
MGM Weighs Real Estate Options
MGM Resorts International reported second quarter 2015 earnings results earlier today. The theme this earnings season has been stronger Las Vegas trends offset by a softer Macau. Revenue at MGM's wholly owned domestic resorts was 1.7 billion, an increase of 4% compared to the prior year quarter. Average daily room rate and revenue per available room both increased more than 6%. MGM China revenue decreased by 33%.
During the company's earnings conference all Jim Murren hinted at the possibility of a REIT conversion. He said the company has been weighing all options when it comes to real estate and a definitive decision would be announced by the end of the year.
As for the rumors that The Mirage was being sold - Murren said "The Mirage is not on the market." Some people are seeing this as a sign that The Mirage is definitely not being sold. Others think that Murren chose his words carefully, and the property isn't on the market because it has already been sold. With MGM looking at all real estate possibilities I wouldn't be surprised at either outcome.
Murren also talked about how The Harmon is almost completely dismantled now, and MGM is trying to decide what to do with that two acre property. The leading candidate seems to be an expansion of The Shops at Crystals. I wouldn't be a huge fan of that plan, but Crystals seems to be doing quite well so it probably makes sense financially.
During the company's earnings conference all Jim Murren hinted at the possibility of a REIT conversion. He said the company has been weighing all options when it comes to real estate and a definitive decision would be announced by the end of the year.
As for the rumors that The Mirage was being sold - Murren said "The Mirage is not on the market." Some people are seeing this as a sign that The Mirage is definitely not being sold. Others think that Murren chose his words carefully, and the property isn't on the market because it has already been sold. With MGM looking at all real estate possibilities I wouldn't be surprised at either outcome.
Murren also talked about how The Harmon is almost completely dismantled now, and MGM is trying to decide what to do with that two acre property. The leading candidate seems to be an expansion of The Shops at Crystals. I wouldn't be a huge fan of that plan, but Crystals seems to be doing quite well so it probably makes sense financially.
Monday, July 27, 2015
Mirage Sold to Starwood Capital Rumor
Update: August 4, 2015. Jim Murren just said on the MGM 2nd quarter earnings call that "The Mirage is not on the market." While a property can't be on the market if it's already sold, it's looking more and more like the below report was just a rumor and unlikely to happen.
The Mirage has been sold to Starwood Capital Group - although the official announcement won't be made for a few weeks according to a Las Vegas Advisor report.
LVA is also reporting that Paragon Gaming will operate the casino once the deal is complete.
MGM Resorts International is the parent company of The Mirage. They have been selling off a number of assets recently, including exiting the Reno market by selling Circus Circus Reno and Silver Legacy a few weeks ago.
The question is WHY is MGM selling assets?
This could be a shot in the dark but my guess is Japan. There have been a few rumblings recently about Japan possibly opening up for gambling. Las Vegas Sands CEO Sheldon Adelson and Boyd CEO Keith Smith have both made comments about Japan within the past week.
MGM has their own Japan ties - as the Bellagio fountains will be hosting a Japanese Kabuki performance in August. An MGM co-sponsored Kabuki festival is also being planned for Las Vegas in 2016.
Even if Japan isn't the reason for selling assets - MGM currently has the $1.2 billion MGM National Harbor starting construction, along with Massachusetts and Macau projects underway - so the extra cash from the Mirage sale will be put to good use either way.
The Mirage has been sold to Starwood Capital Group - although the official announcement won't be made for a few weeks according to a Las Vegas Advisor report.
LVA is also reporting that Paragon Gaming will operate the casino once the deal is complete.
MGM Resorts International is the parent company of The Mirage. They have been selling off a number of assets recently, including exiting the Reno market by selling Circus Circus Reno and Silver Legacy a few weeks ago.
The question is WHY is MGM selling assets?
This could be a shot in the dark but my guess is Japan. There have been a few rumblings recently about Japan possibly opening up for gambling. Las Vegas Sands CEO Sheldon Adelson and Boyd CEO Keith Smith have both made comments about Japan within the past week.
MGM has their own Japan ties - as the Bellagio fountains will be hosting a Japanese Kabuki performance in August. An MGM co-sponsored Kabuki festival is also being planned for Las Vegas in 2016.
Even if Japan isn't the reason for selling assets - MGM currently has the $1.2 billion MGM National Harbor starting construction, along with Massachusetts and Macau projects underway - so the extra cash from the Mirage sale will be put to good use either way.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Mirage Volcano Cutting Showtimes
The famous volcano in front of The Mirage will be reducing the number of times it erupts per night. The volcano showtimes will be 8 and 9 pm on weekdays (Sunday through Thursday) with an additional 10 pm show on weekends (Friday and Saturday).
Previously the volcano had erupted every half hour from dusk until midnight. It has operated since the hotel opened in 1989. The volcano was upgraded in 1996 and underwent another major renovation in 2008.
Unfortunately this marks another reduction of free attractions on the Strip. The MGM Grand lion habitat,the Pirate Show at Treasure Island, and the Rio Show in the Sky were some other free attractions that closed recently. While the volcano isn't closing completely it's upsetting nonetheless.
It appears MGM Resorts International is reducing the volcano's hours as a cost cutting measure. MGM has also been selling assets recently. It seems like they need money for something. I guess they are watching their pennies closely with the $1.2 billion MGM National Harbor starting construction, along with Massachusetts and Macau projects underway.
Previously the volcano had erupted every half hour from dusk until midnight. It has operated since the hotel opened in 1989. The volcano was upgraded in 1996 and underwent another major renovation in 2008.
Unfortunately this marks another reduction of free attractions on the Strip. The MGM Grand lion habitat,the Pirate Show at Treasure Island, and the Rio Show in the Sky were some other free attractions that closed recently. While the volcano isn't closing completely it's upsetting nonetheless.
It appears MGM Resorts International is reducing the volcano's hours as a cost cutting measure. MGM has also been selling assets recently. It seems like they need money for something. I guess they are watching their pennies closely with the $1.2 billion MGM National Harbor starting construction, along with Massachusetts and Macau projects underway.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Kardashian Khaos at the Mirage
The Mirage announced a new "Kardashian" themed boutique store will be opening later this year in November.
The hotel posted on facebook:
We're excited to announce Kardashian Khaos is coming! A new retail store will open later this year & you're invited to experience the Kardashians like never before!
Unfortunately for the Mirage the announcement caused quite a backlash, with 100+ comments on the facebook page bashing the Kardashians and the decision to give them a store at the Mirage.
I guess you can't please everybody all of the time. While the Kardashians are immensely popular in some circles, it looks like their demographic doesn't stay at the Mirage.
The hotel posted on facebook:
We're excited to announce Kardashian Khaos is coming! A new retail store will open later this year & you're invited to experience the Kardashians like never before!
Unfortunately for the Mirage the announcement caused quite a backlash, with 100+ comments on the facebook page bashing the Kardashians and the decision to give them a store at the Mirage.
I guess you can't please everybody all of the time. While the Kardashians are immensely popular in some circles, it looks like their demographic doesn't stay at the Mirage.
Saturday, August 06, 2011
1OAK to replace JET at Mirage
In nightclub news, Page Six is reporting that New York hot-spot 1OAK will likely take over the space currently occupied by JET at the Mirage.
While the deal isn't officially in place yet, Daily Fiasco pointed out that JET operator The Light Group has registered the domain name 1OakLasVegas.com, so it appears the new club will be a partnership between The Light Group and the New York owners of 1OAK.
I thought JET was one of the more successful clubs in Las Vegas, so this is kind of surprising to me. Perhaps the opening of Marquee, Surrender, Gallery and the upcoming Hyde has put pressure on The Light Group to make a change.
While the deal isn't officially in place yet, Daily Fiasco pointed out that JET operator The Light Group has registered the domain name 1OakLasVegas.com, so it appears the new club will be a partnership between The Light Group and the New York owners of 1OAK.
I thought JET was one of the more successful clubs in Las Vegas, so this is kind of surprising to me. Perhaps the opening of Marquee, Surrender, Gallery and the upcoming Hyde has put pressure on The Light Group to make a change.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Las Vegas Commercial - Big Time Couple
Las Vegas commercial highlights ways to "Do Vegas big-time without spending big-time." This couple takes advantage of Prix Fixe menus and free shows (Mirage Volcano, Bellagio Conservatory and Bellagio Fountains).
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
MGM Resorts Launches M life
MGM Resorts International has launched their new "M life" loyalty program. The program will have a tier structure consisting of Sapphire, Pearl, Gold and Platinum. Each tier comes with its own set of benefits, including the ability to earn points faster at the Gold and Platinum levels.
Another feature of M life will be the ability to track spending outside of the casino, but that won't be available until later this year.
The new program is being touted as easier to use and more transparent when it comes to knowing exactly what you've earned. You will be able to check your balances a variety of ways, including online, kiosks, at slot machines and even an iPhone app.
M life is also aiming to offer guests rewards that they actually want. If you went to a concert in the past, they might offer you tickets to a concert by a similar artist in the future.
We will have to wait and see how well the new program is implemented, but I think any change is for the better. I never could figure out the old MGM Players Club. It was seemingly impossible to know what comps you had or how much you had to play to get anything. M life looks to be combating some of these problems, so hopefully it's a step in the right direction.
Source: MGM Resorts Press Release.
Another feature of M life will be the ability to track spending outside of the casino, but that won't be available until later this year.
The new program is being touted as easier to use and more transparent when it comes to knowing exactly what you've earned. You will be able to check your balances a variety of ways, including online, kiosks, at slot machines and even an iPhone app.
M life is also aiming to offer guests rewards that they actually want. If you went to a concert in the past, they might offer you tickets to a concert by a similar artist in the future.
We will have to wait and see how well the new program is implemented, but I think any change is for the better. I never could figure out the old MGM Players Club. It was seemingly impossible to know what comps you had or how much you had to play to get anything. M life looks to be combating some of these problems, so hopefully it's a step in the right direction.
Source: MGM Resorts Press Release.
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Donny and Marie Wrap at Flamingo Coming Down
The world famous Donny and Marie wrap on the Flamingo is coming down and will be replaced with an advertisement for the new H&M store at the Forum Shops.
While the Donny and Marie wrap was definitely tacky and a bit of an eyesore, at least hit had something to do with Las Vegas and more specifically the Flamingo. An H&M advertisement seems kind of bland for that kind of strip frontage, and the store it's promoting is across the street at Caesars, which might confuse some pedestrians.
The preferred option would be not to have billboard advertising on the front of hotels, but it looks like they are here to stay, at least at Flamingo. If they insist on wraps, something like the Love advertisement at Mirage isn't too bad, it's fairly unobtrusive and understated.
While the Donny and Marie wrap was definitely tacky and a bit of an eyesore, at least hit had something to do with Las Vegas and more specifically the Flamingo. An H&M advertisement seems kind of bland for that kind of strip frontage, and the store it's promoting is across the street at Caesars, which might confuse some pedestrians.
The preferred option would be not to have billboard advertising on the front of hotels, but it looks like they are here to stay, at least at Flamingo. If they insist on wraps, something like the Love advertisement at Mirage isn't too bad, it's fairly unobtrusive and understated.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Summer of Cirque - $50 Tickets
Cirque du Soleil is running a summer promotion where tickets for most shows will start at $50. Dates and ticket locations are limited, but it could turn out to be a good deal if you can find a show you want to see on a date that works for you.
The available shows:
* Mystere from $50 + fees
* Zumanity from $50 + fees - offer code: zumanity
* KA Live from $50 + fees - offer code: MGM
* The Beatles LOVE from $50 + fees
* CRISS Angel from $50 + fees - offer code: luxor
* Viva ELVIS from $50 + fees - offer code: ARIA
Deal found at Slickdeals.net.
Go to Cirque du Soleil to buy tickets.
The available shows:
* Mystere from $50 + fees
* Zumanity from $50 + fees - offer code: zumanity
* KA Live from $50 + fees - offer code: MGM
* The Beatles LOVE from $50 + fees
* CRISS Angel from $50 + fees - offer code: luxor
* Viva ELVIS from $50 + fees - offer code: ARIA
Deal found at Slickdeals.net.
Go to Cirque du Soleil to buy tickets.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Cirque to develop Michael Jackson Show
Cirque du Soleil will develop a show based on the music of Michael Jackson. A touring version of the show will begin in 2011, followed by a permanent show in Vegas starting in 2012.
Part of the deal will also include a Jackson themed nightclub at the hotel where the show will be. That hotel hasn't been announced yet, but it will be a MGM Mirage property.
Off the top of my head the property that makes the most sense would be Mandalay Bay. They are the best MGM hotel without a Cirque show at the moment. Anything can happen between now and 2012 though, so the show really could end up almost anywhere. Monte Carlo perhaps to replace Lance Burton? Luxor to replace Criss Angel down the road? MGM Grand if KA is struggling? Aria if the Elvis show is a flop? Really almost anything is possible. I think Love is pretty safe so it won't be at Mirage. Same thing for O and Bellagio. Excalibur and Circus Circus are off the list just because they are on the low end. I guess time will tell.
Source: Reuters.
Part of the deal will also include a Jackson themed nightclub at the hotel where the show will be. That hotel hasn't been announced yet, but it will be a MGM Mirage property.
Off the top of my head the property that makes the most sense would be Mandalay Bay. They are the best MGM hotel without a Cirque show at the moment. Anything can happen between now and 2012 though, so the show really could end up almost anywhere. Monte Carlo perhaps to replace Lance Burton? Luxor to replace Criss Angel down the road? MGM Grand if KA is struggling? Aria if the Elvis show is a flop? Really almost anything is possible. I think Love is pretty safe so it won't be at Mirage. Same thing for O and Bellagio. Excalibur and Circus Circus are off the list just because they are on the low end. I guess time will tell.
Source: Reuters.
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