Vegas is Spelled V-A-L-U-E

After being pummeled by the recession and offended by President Barack Obama’s remarks, Las Vegas has gone on the offensive by accusing lawmakers of negative publicity and marketing to a clientele more interested in value-priced amenities.

On Sunday, my post covered Vegas’ reaction to Obama’s remarks, but now hospitality and casino executives have decided to take action. Chinese New Year, usually a moneymaker for casinos, has been disappointing and international visitors are down.  Forbes Magazine named Las Vegas the nation’s emptiest city.

Aside from the caterwauling about being painted as an extravagant, freewheeling hotspot (and isn’t it?) there were few solutions offered by industry professionals. One of the few voices was Jan Jones, senior vice president of communications and government relations for Harrah’s Entertainment Inc.

“All of our marketing is having to change somewhat, because the consumer is changing,” Jones told the Associated Press. “In 2009, you spell Vegas V-A-L-U-E.”

Jones is right since Harrah’s owns enough properties that appeal to the budget-conscious as well as  luxury-seekers. (The American Society of Travel Agents also voted Las Vegas as the No. 1 budget destination.) Perhaps the industry should listen to their what their strengths are.

Las Vegas has come a long way from being about slot machines and bus holidays, but it doesn’t all have to be about $480 a night suites and $200 massages. Sometimes it’s about enticing people who have a set budget for a three-day weekend. Wouldn’t it be nice to see the $1.99 prime rib or steak dinner make a comeback?