Laurent Lassiaz, CEO of Groupe Joa, has addressed the state of the gambling industry in France, highlighting the interplay between land-based casinos and the potential for iGaming legalization. Speaking in June 2026, Lassiaz outlined the significance of this potential shift within the regulatory landscape, stating that while iCasino operations remain unregulated, an active offshore market suggests significant economic implications, including a loss in tax revenue estimated at €1.5 billion annually.
The current French gambling market is characterized by a robust land-based casino industry, comprising over 200 establishments. Groupe Joa stands as the second-largest operator, with 33 casinos across the country. Lassiaz emphasized that the regulatory framework forces casinos to diversify their offerings, requiring gaming, entertainment, and food and beverage services. This structure has positioned casinos as integral local leisure destinations, mitigating broader economic challenges.
Regulatory complexities have stalled the progress towards legalizing iCasino operations. Lassiaz contends that the introduction of online gambling could complement existing land-based operations rather than compete with them, potentially expanding the market and driving growth through a “click-and-mortar” model. However, he acknowledges the intricate regulatory environment, which focuses heavily on local economic integration and financial contributions to municipalities.
The market’s maturity is evident in the distribution of gaming activities; slots dominate, accounting for approximately 75% to 82% of gaming revenue. However, Lassiaz notes a shift in player demographics, with younger patrons gravitating towards more interactive table games, which offer a perceived element of control absent from slot machines.
Monaco serves as a unique outlier within the region, attracting affluent international visitors distinct from the typical local clientele frequenting French casinos. Unlike the high-spending visitors to Monte Carlo, the average expenditure in French casinos remains modest, aligning with the industry’s position as a community-centered entertainment venue.
Despite the mature nature of the French casino market, Groupe Joa continues to explore growth opportunities. Lassiaz highlights plans for both organic expansion and acquisitions. The introduction of new entertainment options such as innovative F&B concepts and escape rooms aims to enhance customer experience and drive traffic. Additionally, lobbying efforts are underway to expand casino presence in underserved regions, and international expansion is on the horizon through strategic acquisitions.
The potential for legalizing iGaming presents a significant opportunity for the French gambling industry. Lassiaz argues that tethering online licenses to existing land-based operations could stimulate sector growth by creating a complementary revenue stream. However, regulatory caution persists due to the substantial financial contributions of land-based casino taxes to local governments, which fund up to 50% of municipal budgets in some areas.
As the French gambling landscape evolves, industry stakeholders like Groupe Joa remain focused on adapting to regulatory changes while maintaining a strong community presence. The future of online gambling in France remains uncertain, but continued dialogue and strategic planning may pave the way for new opportunities in this traditionally land-based industry.
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