Since 2007, the industry of casinos in France has been experiencing serious difficulties. Indeed, its gross gaming revenue has been constantly declining. In particular, it has declined by more than 8% between 2008 and 2009. In 2010 the fall was less dramatic, as it was limited to 2.1%. Several factors may explain this crisis.
As in most countries in the world, the French casino industry has had to deal with the subprime financial crisis and its adverse impact on the global economy. Moreover, it is necessary to mention the increasing competition from websites that offer online gambling.
In addition, French casinos have been adversarily affected by two laws, which contributed to a decline in attendance. The first one is the anti-smoking law, prohibiting smoking in public places. The second one is the law that imposed identity checks at the entrance of casinos.