The annual IAG Academy IR Awards Gala unfolded in dazzling fashion this past Wednesday, celebrating the finest in the Asia-Pacific Integrated Resort (IR) industry. Held at The Ballroom at Hilton Manila, Newport World Resorts, this prestigious event recognized 22 winners across various categories, showcasing excellence in design, entertainment, customer experience, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). A key highlight of the evening was the inauguration of the “Industry Legend” title in the Hall of Fame, which was awarded to none other than Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers, an icon who has significantly influenced the industry.
This year’s IAG Academy IR Awards proved to be an opportunity not just to celebrate the best resorts and solutions but also to highlight industry innovations, workplace environments, and leadership. Among the major accolades, Galaxy Macau stood out, capturing the coveted title of “Best Integrated Resort in Asia.” The awards recognized both the beauty and sophistication of integrated resorts across the region, honoring the best in architecture, retail, food and beverage (F&B), entertainment, and beyond.
Integrated Resort Excellence: Winning Resorts
One of the most prominent trends evident from this year’s awards is the increasing competition among integrated resorts to create comprehensive, luxurious experiences for their guests. Marina Bay Sands and Galaxy Macau, two of the biggest winners, exemplify the evolving nature of resort entertainment, combining architectural grandeur with unique attractions, retail options, and dining experiences. Let’s explore the key categories and what set the winners apart.
Best Integrated Resort – Galaxy Macau
The award for Best Integrated Resort went to Galaxy Macau, a symbol of luxury, innovation, and excellence in the Asia-Pacific IR space. Operated by Galaxy Entertainment Group, the resort encompasses a diverse mix of entertainment, luxury accommodations, fine dining, and an expansive casino floor that captures the essence of the integrated resort concept. Galaxy Macau’s win in this category showcases its commitment to offering a world-class experience, seamlessly blending opulence with modern gaming and leisure experiences.
Best Overall Architectural Impact of an IR – Marina Bay Sands
Another standout was Marina Bay Sands, which took home the award for Best Overall Architectural Impact. Known globally for its striking design and iconic silhouette that dominates Singapore’s skyline, Marina Bay Sands is an architectural marvel. The resort’s design includes the famous SkyPark Observation Deck, which offers panoramic views of the city, setting a new benchmark for how integrated resorts can merge architecture with tourism and entertainment.
Best IR Resort Attraction – SkyPark Observation Deck, Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands further cemented its place as a leading resort in Asia by winning the award for Best IR Resort Attraction for its SkyPark Observation Deck. This attraction is more than just a viewpoint; it is a prime example of how integrated resorts are incorporating landmark features to enhance guest experiences, blending leisure, culture, and luxury with breathtaking scenery.
Best Hotel Attached to an IR – Raffles at Galaxy Macau
Beyond just architecture and attractions, accommodation plays a critical role in defining a luxury integrated resort experience. Raffles at Galaxy Macau won the award for Best Hotel Attached to an IR, recognized for its lavish interiors, unparalleled guest service, and fusion of historical elegance with modern luxury. The win highlights the growing importance of the hotel component within integrated resorts, where staying at the resort becomes a core part of the overall guest experience.
Innovation and Solutions: Transforming the Industry
As integrated resorts strive to deliver seamless entertainment experiences, innovation in gaming solutions and technological advancements has become crucial to staying competitive. This year’s awards featured a range of categories honoring the best in gaming technology and supplier solutions, demonstrating the industry’s rapid evolution.
Best Slot Solution and Best IR or Supplier Solution – Aristocrat for Dragon Link
Aristocrat emerged as a dominant force in gaming solutions, clinching the award for Best Slot Solution as well as Best IR or Supplier Solution for its popular game, Dragon Link. This slot machine series has redefined slot gaming with its engaging gameplay, progressive jackpots, and appeal to a broad audience, blending entertainment with the allure of big winnings. The award underscores how essential innovative slot solutions are in the overall gaming experience of integrated resorts.
Best ETG Solution – LT Game for Live Multi-Game Stadiums
LT Game secured the award for Best ETG (Electronic Table Game) Solution with its Live Multi-Game Stadiums, offering players a dynamic, live gaming experience that blends technology with the excitement of traditional table games. This innovation allows integrated resorts to cater to a wider audience by offering a fusion of electronic and live gaming experiences, further demonstrating how technology is reshaping the IR industry.
Best Table Game Solution – Walker Digital Table Systems for Perfect Pay
The award for Best Table Game Solution went to Walker Digital Table Systems for its Perfect Pay system, which enhances table game security and efficiency through automated chip detection. This solution helps integrated resorts streamline their table games, minimizing errors and increasing revenue potential. It also provides a seamless experience for players, making it easier to track wagers and payouts.
Corporate Social Responsibility: A Key Focus for Integrated Resorts
In recent years, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a core aspect of the integrated resort industry, with many companies taking active roles in supporting their communities and promoting sustainable development. This year’s IAG Academy IR Awards featured two major CSR categories: Best CSR Initiative and Best Overall CSR Program. Both categories reflect the industry’s growing emphasis on making a positive social and environmental impact.
Best CSR Initiative – Simple Acts of Kindness, Melco Resorts & Entertainment
Melco Resorts & Entertainment took home the award for Best CSR Initiative for its Simple Acts of Kindness program. This initiative focuses on giving back to the local communities through charitable acts, from providing food and essential supplies to promoting community health and well-being. This award emphasizes that integrated resorts are more than just entertainment hubs; they are also influential in fostering community development.
Best Overall CSR Program – Melco Resorts & Entertainment
Melco’s commitment to social responsibility didn’t stop there, as the company also won the award for Best Overall CSR Program. This accolade is a testament to the company’s holistic approach to corporate social responsibility, encompassing environmental sustainability, social welfare, and employee well-being. Melco’s continuous efforts in CSR not only strengthen its brand reputation but also contribute positively to the communities in which it operates.
Leadership and Hall of Fame Honors: Recognizing Industry Icons
A unique aspect of the IAG Academy IR Awards is its focus on leadership within the integrated resort industry. This year’s ceremony marked the inaugural presentation of the Industry Legend award, alongside a special Hall of Fame ceremony that celebrated some of the industry’s most respected figures.
First-Ever Industry Legend – Ciarán Carruthers, Crown Resorts CEO
One of the most prestigious moments of the evening was the naming of Ciarán Carruthers, CEO of Crown Resorts, as the first-ever Industry Legend. Carruthers, a long-standing figure in the Asia-Pacific IR scene, was honored for his leadership and contributions to the industry. His work at Crown Resorts, particularly during challenging times, has set a new standard for leadership in the region. This award celebrates not only his achievements but also his vision for the future of integrated resorts.
Rising Stars and Industry Icons
In addition to the Industry Legend honor, the Hall of Fame also recognized emerging talent through the Rising Stars category, with Ankur Sharma, Jack Curtis, and Joe Sam receiving accolades. Meanwhile, Andrew MacDonald, Kevin Benning, and Han Tian were inducted as Industry Icons, further highlighting the diverse leadership shaping the integrated resort industry.
Workplace Culture: Recognizing Employee-Centered Innovation
Employee well-being and workplace culture were central to this year’s awards, reflecting the growing awareness of how critical a positive work environment is to a company’s success.
Best Workplace – Light & Wonder
The award for Best Workplace went to Light & Wonder, recognized for fostering an innovative, inclusive, and empowering work environment. As a leading supplier in the gaming industry, Light & Wonder has distinguished itself by focusing on its employees’ growth and well-being, ensuring that workplace culture remains a competitive advantage.
The 2023 IAG Academy IR Awards were a celebration of the creativity, innovation, and leadership that define the Asia-Pacific integrated resort industry. From recognizing the stunning architectural marvels of Marina Bay Sands to celebrating the social contributions of Melco Resorts, the event highlighted the best in every facet of the industry. As we look to the future, it is clear that the industry’s focus will remain on delivering unforgettable guest experiences, while also embracing innovation, corporate responsibility, and leadership excellence.
The night’s awards not only honored the winners but also showcased the direction in which the integrated resort industry is headed: a place where entertainment, luxury, technology, and social responsibility converge to create a better, more exciting future for guests and communities alike.