Strike at Encore Boston Harbor: What the 22% Revenue Drop Really Means

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-23

When 1,350 workers walked off the job at Encore Boston Harbor, the impact was felt almost immediately. September 2026 turned out to be the casino's worst month in over five years. According to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, the Everett property brought in about $46.1 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR). That's down 22.1% from the $59.1 million it earned in September 2025. You might be wondering: just how bad is that? Well, it's the lowest monthly total since February 2021, when the casino made roughly $41 million during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. So yeah, it's a big deal. ### The Strike That Shook the Casino Floor The strike involves approximately 1,350 employees, represented by [union name]. They're fighting for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. And their absence is clearly hitting the bottom line. Encore Boston Harbor, owned by Wynn Resorts, isn't just any casino. It's a major player in the Massachusetts gaming market, and its performance often sets the tone for the region. A drop this steep raises questions about how long the strike might last and what it means for the casino's future. ### Why This Matters Beyond the Casino For industry watchers, this isn't just about one bad month. It's a signal. Labor actions in the gaming industry are becoming more common as workers demand a bigger share of the profits. And when they strike, the financial ripple effects can be significant. Think about it: fewer dealers, fewer servers, fewer security staff. That means slower service, fewer tables open, and ultimately, fewer people willing to stick around and gamble. It's a domino effect that starts on the casino floor and ends on the balance sheet. > "This is a wake-up call for casino operators everywhere," said one industry analyst. "You can't ignore worker satisfaction and expect revenue to stay immune." ### What's Next for Encore Boston Harbor? Wynn Resorts hasn't commented on how long the strike might last, but the pressure is mounting. The company needs to find a resolution that satisfies both the workers and the bottom line. In the meantime, other casinos in the region might see a bump as players look for alternatives. For now, all eyes are on Everett. Will the strike end soon, or will Encore's revenue continue to slide? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: this is a story worth watching, especially if you're in the business of gambling—or just enjoy following the high-stakes drama of the casino world. ### The Bottom Line - Encore Boston Harbor's September 2026 GGR: ~$46.1 million (down 22.1% year-over-year) - Lowest monthly revenue since February 2021 - Strike involves ~1,350 employees - No resolution announced yet This isn't just a number—it's a reminder that even the biggest players can be brought to their knees by labor unrest. And as the gaming industry continues to evolve, the relationship between management and workers will be more critical than ever.