Encore Boston Harbor's Revenue Plunge: What the Strike Really Cost

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-23

Encore Boston Harbor just had its worst month in over five years. In September 2026, the Everett casino brought in about $46.1 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR). That's a 22.1% drop from the $59.1 million it made in September 2025. And it's the lowest monthly total since February 2021, when the casino was dealing with pandemic restrictions and only managed around $41 million. So what's behind this slump? A worker strike. Roughly 1,350 employees walked off the job, and the impact on the casino's bottom line is impossible to ignore. ### The Strike That Shook the Casino Floor The strike involves unionized workers at Encore Boston Harbor, represented by [the union name]. They've been picketing for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. With more than a thousand employees off the job, the casino has had to scale back operations. Fewer dealers, fewer servers, fewer security staff—it all adds up to a diminished experience for guests. And when guests have a subpar experience, they're less likely to stay and play. That's exactly what the revenue numbers show. ### Why This Matters for the Casino Industry Encore Boston Harbor is one of the biggest casinos in Massachusetts, and its performance is often seen as a bellwether for the region. A 22% revenue drop is significant—not just for Wynn Resorts, the owner, but for the local economy and the state's gaming tax revenue. Here's a quick breakdown of the numbers: - September 2026 GGR: ~$46.1 million - September 2025 GGR: ~$59.1 million - Decline: 22.1% - Lowest since: February 2021 (~$41 million) That's a lot of money left on the table. And it's not just about the casino's profits—it's about the livelihoods of the workers and the ripple effects on the community. ### What's Next for Encore Boston Harbor? The strike shows no signs of ending soon. Both sides are reportedly still far apart on key issues. For now, the casino is operating with reduced staff, and guests may notice longer waits and fewer amenities. As one industry analyst put it: "A strike of this magnitude is a stress test for any casino. It's not just about the immediate revenue loss—it's about the long-term damage to the brand and customer loyalty." That's a quote worth pondering. Will Encore Boston Harbor be able to bounce back once the strike is resolved? Or will some customers have found new favorites in the meantime? ### The Bottom Line Encore Boston Harbor's revenue drop is a clear sign that labor disputes can have real, measurable consequences. For industry watchers, it's a reminder that casinos are not just about glitz and glamour—they're businesses that depend on a happy, stable workforce. We'll keep an eye on how this story develops. In the meantime, if you're planning a visit to Encore, you might want to check ahead for any service changes.