Gaming News

Sales Up with Third Washington Lotto Drawing

OLYMPIA, Washington – As reported by the Washington Herald: "Adding a third Lotto drawing each week is paying off for the Washington Lottery with increased ticket sales in Snohomish County and the state.

"Average weekly sales are up 11.2 percent statewide and 11.5 percent in the county since the drawing on Mondays began Feb. 14, according to figures from the Washington Lottery. Drawings also are held Wednesdays and Saturdays.

"…Lottery commissioners initiated the change in an effort to end a slide in revenues from one of their signature games. Sales dropped from $120 million in 2002 to $103 million in 2003. Final figures for 2004 are unavailable, but officials say there is not much change from 2003.

"Interest in Lotto had sagged as players switch allegiance to other games, such as Mega Millions, with the lure of larger jackpots, or spend their money in other gaming environments.

"Those who sell Lotto tickets say the upswing they've noticed is not from new players but from longtime ones who are buying more often…"

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