TRANSFORMING LIVES

Queen of Virginia Skill games have become a crucial lifeline for small business owners like Adnan Shaikh, who runs two 7-Eleven convenience stores in Dumfries and Woodbridge, Virginia. Adnan shared insights into the transformative impact of skill games on his business and employees.

With nearly two decades of experience in the retail sector, Adnan's journey from a sales associate to a franchise owner reflects his deep-rooted passion for entrepreneurship. His knack for business was honed long before he ventured into the convenience industry, having pursued a bachelor's degree in business and engaging in entrepreneurial endeavors in his native country, Pakistan.

Running a convenience store isn't without its challenges, as Adnan candidly highlights. The 24/7 nature of the business demands constant vigilance, with the unpredictability of employee availability and daily operations posing significant hurdles. However, amidst these challenges, the introduction of skill games brought a new dimension to Adnan's business landscape.

Skill games, an addition to the Northern Virginia gaming scene, presented Adnan with an opportunity to diversify his revenue stream and enhance customer engagement. Despite facing initial delays in obtaining approval for skill games, Adnan's perseverance paid off, making his stores among the first in the area to offer these enticing attractions.

The impact was immediate and profound. Adnan witnessed a surge in foot traffic and revenue as customers flocked to experience the thrill of skill games. The influx of patrons not only boosted game-related revenue but also translated into increased sales across other store offerings like food and beverages, further solidifying the games' positive impact on his bottom line.

Moreover, the revenue generated from skill games empowered Adnan to invest in his business, from hiring additional staff to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable customer experience. As a result, his stores became bustling hubs of activity, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among patrons and employees alike.

However, the journey had its setbacks. Periodic bans on skill games, such as the six-month hiatus in 2020 and a ban in 2023, dealt significant blows to Adnan's business. The abrupt loss of revenue jeopardized not only his financial stability but also the livelihoods of his employees, many of whom depend on their jobs to support themselves and their families.

Adnan's impassioned plea to legislators underscores the critical importance of skill games to small businesses like his own. Beyond mere entertainment, these games serve as lifelines, sustaining livelihoods and fostering economic growth within local communities. Adnan's story is a poignant reminder of the profound impact that policy decisions can have on small businesses and the lives they touch.

In essence, Adnan Shaikh's experience epitomizes the ethos of our More Than A Game campaign. Skill games aren't just about entertainment; they're about empowerment, resilience, and the collective well-being of communities. As policymakers deliberate on the future of skill games, Adnan's voice serves as a reminder of the human stories behind these seemingly simple diversions.