| Times are changing at
Detroit’s MotorCity Casino. As the casino turns in their old token
slot machines for the new paper-in, paper out variety, the need for
130 employees has come to an end.
MotorCity currently employs 2,700 workers and
layoff only represent 5 percent of that work force. Job losses will
affect money runners, floor attendants, slot machine technicians,
assistant slot machine managers, and cage workers. Layoff will
become effective on October 20th.
The casino has been discussing token-less slot
machines for months, so staff reduction is not exactly a shocker for
employees. Casino communication manager, Jacci Woods, said,
“MotorCity Casino has been notifying associates that they will be
placed on layoffs due to a reduction in slot and cage positions at
the casino.” She continued, “This reduction in positions is due to
the transition to coin-less technology gaming at MotorCity in an
effort to stay at the forefront of the industry both locally and
nationally.”
Patrons of MotorCity have desired the cleaner
and easier to use coin-less slot machines for months claim Woods.
Most gamblers prefer the coin-less slot machines to the alternative
of lugging around buckets of coins.
Lansing gaming consultant Jacob L. Miklojcik
says token-less slot machines are in such demand due to their
conveniences. Token-less slot machines will operate on any
denomination of paper bill. Casino’s also save money with the
coin-less slot machines because their presence requires less
employees.
Paper slot machines have not equaled
unemployment at all casinos. When Greektown Casino upgraded to
paper slot machines, employees were simply reassigned to new duties.
Laid-off MototCity Casino employees qualify
for unemployment benefits and their contract reserves them the right
to a recall should a new position arise at the casino. According to
Woods, certain employees are being asked to attend a dealer school
for future positions with MotorCity.
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