Press Release: Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.
December 7, 2001
BOONVILLE, MO -- In the midst of one of the most challenging times for the entertainment and hospitality industry,
Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISLE) announced yesterday the opening of its newest $75 million, 72,000-square-foot
casino facility in Boonville, Missouri.
A faltering economy and fear of air travel have had adverse effects on the travel and gaming industry, creating
a ripple effect that has caused several casinos to postpone projects. One exception is Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.
-- the gaming company that is beating the odds at every turn.
``Our sound, steady business plan has been put to the test, and we have succeeded,'' Bernard Goldstein, chairman
and CEO of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. said. ``Our strategy has served the company well as we have focused on brand
strategy, cost controls, and asset diversity. While we may not be the largest gaming company in the industry, we
are a stand-out in terms of our creative, efficient operations.''
The market supports Goldstein's assessment, with the stock price of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. increasing more
than 80 percent since September 11, 2001. Just two weeks ago, two analysts upgraded the stock from a ``buy'' to
a ``strong buy.''
Isle of Capri has reported earnings per share of $0.34 for the second quarter -- well ahead of the consensus estimates
of $0.26.
``What sets us apart from our competitors is that we maintain a high standard of customer service and continue
to spend wisely,'' said John M. Gallaway, president and chief operating officer of the company. ``We have a steady,
measured growth strategy that is atypical of our industry. And it works.''
Goldstein added, ``We are pleased to bring high quality casino entertainment to Central Missouri. Along with our
property in Kansas City, we now offer fun and entertainment in locations convenient to two thirds of the residents
of Missouri.''
Like all Isle of Capri Casinos, the Boonville facility is strategically located in a drive-in market and offers
patrons the regional flexibility to access its operations without traveling by air. The company caters to a strong
regional client base.
The new Boonville casino will serve as an economic stimulus to the Boonville community, bringing more than 800
jobs to the area. The casino features 900 slot machines and 28 gaming tables. The dockside casino also offers three
signature restaurants and touts its Isle Style tropical decor, hospitality and exceptional guest service. The 72,000-square-foot
property is the 14th casino to be launched in the United States by the company.
About Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.
Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. has quickly grown to become one of the 10 largest publicly held gaming companies in
the United States. The first gaming company to open in the South in 1992, Isle of Capri currently owns and operates
15 riverboat, dockside and land-based casinos at 14 locations including Biloxi, Vicksburg, Tunica, Lula and Natchez,
Mississippi; Bossier City and Lake Charles (two riverboats), Louisiana; Black Hawk, Colorado; Bettendorf, Davenport
and Marquette, Iowa; Kansas City and Boonville, Missouri; and Las Vegas, Nevada. The company also operates Pompano
Park Harness Racing Track in Pompano Beach, Florida. For more information, please visit www.theislecorp.com.
Contacts:
Allan B. Solomon, Executive Vice President-561.995.6660
Rex Yeisley, Chief Financial Officer-228.396.7052
Lori Hutzler, Director of Corporate Communications-228.396.7031
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release may be deemed to contain forward-looking statements which are subject to change. These forward-looking
statements may be significantly impacted, either positively or negatively by various factors, including without
limitation, licensing, and other regulatory approvals, financing sources, development and construction activities,
costs and delays, permits, weather, competition and business conditions in the gaming industry. The forward-looking
statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially
from those expressed in or implied by the statements herein. Additional information concerning potential factors
that could affect the Company's financial condition, results of operations and expansion projects, is included
in the filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to, its 10-K
for the fiscal year ended April 29, 2001, and on form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 29, 2001.
SOURCE: Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.