Lecture with Jeff Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun Uncasville, Connecticut

Introduction

• Interview with Jeff Hamilton
• Focus: $15 million renovation at Mohegan Sun's flagship location

Renovation Details

Major Changes

• Three-part renovation:
  1. Remodeling of two 3,500 sq. ft. Royal Suites
  2. New Player's Lounge built from former buffet space
  3. Three-year project for golf course improvements
• Aim for significant business impact

Strategic Planning

Selection of Projects

• Focus on high-end offerings (Royal Suites, Player's Lounge)
• Immersive F&B experiences introduced with partnerships like Tao
• Continuous look for differentiated immersive experiences
• Players' lounge as a competitive advantage
• Renovation in stages, first Earth Lounge, then Sky Lounge next year
• Royal Suites to create unique, top-tier hotel experiences

Architects and Contractors

• Case-by-case basis selection
• Long-term partnership with Rockwell for design
• Emphasis on quality of design
• Rockwell involved in Tao and new lounge designs
• Focus on consistency and immersive storytelling in design
• Avoiding disjointed property feel, ensuring cohesive design

Design Aesthetic

• Tribal components crucial since the beginning
• Consistent expansion strategy avoiding a “bolted-on” feel
• Newer constructions blend seamlessly with older parts
• Ensuring new additions feel like part of the original complex

Unique Features

• Interactive features like the digital Buddha in Tao
• Aim to be at the forefront in F&B offerings
• Upcoming announcements of new restaurants

Operational Challenges and Solutions

Supply Chain Issues

• Acknowledged universal supply chain issues
• Extended timelines to accommodate delays
• Creative solutions to maintain operations (e.g., workarounds for walk-in cooler delays in the sportsbook)
• Example: Fanduel Sportsbook with the largest video screen on the East Coast

Attracting Guests

Key Attractions

• Combination of integrated resort amenities: casino, entertainment, and events
• Emphasis on exceptional service provided by a diverse and genuine team
• Unique approach to guest interaction, tailored service delivery
• Sports and events driving visits, especially for major sports and entertainment events

Effects of Online Betting

• Despite online betting, big sports events still attract physical attendance
• Highlighted immersive experiences in their sportsbooks
• Integrated sports viewing with hospitality offerings for major events

Future Plans

Upcoming Projects

• Completion of ongoing renovation projects
• Two new F&B outlets expected next year
• $2 million investment in an outdoor entertainment area: fire pits, turf, field games for three-season use
• Next renovation stage: Sky Lounge
• New retail tenants expected within the next eight weeks
• Exciting entertainment lineup, return of major shows post-pandemic (e.g., Justin Bieber concert)

Conclusion

• Ongoing initiatives to enhance guest experience
• Position as a leading integrated resort with continual improvements

Interviewee: Jeff Hamilton Interview conducted by: Gaming America