At Past Time Bar and Grille, a seasoned operator named Ryan Gurevich, shared insights into the transformative impact of Burning Barrel on local businesses. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the evolving landscape of the gaming industry and its profound effect on the small community it serves. This small-town hub, where generations have gathered for meals, laughter, and games, holds a special place in Ryan's heart. His roots in the industry run deep, with a father boasting a 44-year career, instilling a passion for the business from a young age.
Trivend, the longstanding operator for Past Time, has weathered changes in ownership and the dynamic nature of the gaming industry for over 30 years. Ryan's insights into the ebb and flow of game preferences underscored the need for constant adaptation to keep the gaming scene vibrant and engaging.
The introduction of skill games marked a pivotal moment for Ryan and Trivend. Discovering their potential, Ryan swiftly reached out to distributors, leading to a positive meeting with Pace-O-Matic. The shared goal between Trivend and the skill game company was evident – to breathe new life into local establishments and provide a fresh gaming experience for the community.
Ryan's passion for the industry was palpable as he dispelled the misconception of the amusement industry's demise. While acknowledging the impact of smartphones on certain segments, he adamantly asserted that the industry, especially jukeboxes, would endure. Advancements in technology would continue to bring forth new and exciting games, ensuring the longevity of the gaming experience in bars, taverns, and restaurants.
Addressing the question of increased revenue, Ryan shared stories of hope for struggling small businesses. Establishments that had faced challenging times during the past two years saw a positive influence on revenue streams with the introduction of skill games. Traditional entertainment options, like jukeboxes, experienced a resurgence in interest as patrons engaged in skill games while enjoying their favorite tunes. The symbiotic relationship between skill games and established entertainment options provided a much-needed boost for these businesses.
As Ryan reflected on the challenges faced by small businesses during difficult times, he underscored the emotional impact of removing skill games. Taking away a newfound revenue stream struck a nerve, especially after enduring the COVID-era shutdowns and uncertainties. Ryan expressed concern for the emotional well-being of the community, stating that such a decision was a betrayal of the very essence of small-town America.
Ryan's story is more than a testament to the success of skill games; it's a narrative of resilience and community. The games not only revitalized revenue streams but also rekindled the spirit of camaraderie in local establishments. As Past Time and countless other small businesses continued to navigate the path to recovery, skill games were a beacon of hope, proving that they are indeed "More Than A Game."
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Disclaimer: The above interview reflects experiences from when skill games were previously operating in Kentucky. The games have since been disabled in compliance with state law. If you are interested in supporting skill games in Kentucky, please visit www.joinkymac.com.
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