Circa Resort & Casino in downtown Las Vegas is planning to add 106 rooms and suites to its tower, marking a 20% increase in its inventory. This decision comes after the resort left four floors empty when it first opened in 2020, as the owners wanted to better understand customer demands before expanding. The new additions, including four Sunset Suites and 102 single-king rooms, will be introduced gradually, with a new floor being rolled out every two weeks. This expansion will bring the total room count at Circa to 618.
In a recent interview with CEO Derek Stevens, he shed some light on the strategy behind the expansion. Stevens explained that when Circa initially opened, they had to make educated guesses about the room configuration without having concrete data to rely on. They focused on providing amenities like refrigerators in every room, as Las Vegas had become a culinary destination, and more guests were traveling with medication that required refrigeration. Additionally, all rooms were designed with king-size beds instead of queen beds to accommodate larger guests. About 25% of the rooms were also designed to be flexible, allowing for easy transitions from single-king to double-king configurations based on customer feedback.
Timing of the Expansion
Stevens emphasized that the decision to expand now was based on data gathered over the past few years. The impact of the pandemic on tourism and consumer spending in 2021 and 2022 played a role in delaying the expansion, as the resort needed more time to evaluate market trends and customer preferences. By mid-2023, they felt confident in moving forward with the additional rooms to meet the evolving needs of their guests.
While the initial room design was successful, Stevens admitted that one major oversight was the lack of electrical outlets in the rooms. As a result, the new rooms will be equipped with even more outlets to enhance guest convenience and satisfaction. This attention to detail reflects Circa’s commitment to continuously improve the guest experience and address any shortcomings that may arise.
Adults-Only Policy Impact
Stevens also discussed how Circa’s decision to implement an adults-only policy influenced the business strategy. By focusing on adult guests only, the resort aimed to offer a higher level of customer service and differentiate itself from other properties in Las Vegas. This policy not only streamlines the check-in process but also eliminates the need for repetitive ID checks, saving both time and resources. While this approach may not be suitable for every hotel, Stevens believed it was a strategic choice for Circa given its smaller room count and emphasis on customer service.
Circa Resort & Casino’s expansion plans reflect a thoughtful approach to meeting customer needs and improving the overall guest experience. By analyzing data, listening to guest feedback, and making strategic decisions, the resort aims to stay ahead of market trends and deliver exceptional hospitality to its patrons. The addition of 106 new rooms and suites is not just about increasing capacity but also about refining the product and service offerings to ensure that Circa remains a premier destination in downtown Las Vegas.