Architect firm, casino consultant open office to offer services to region.

Two companies keen to take a bite out of Asia's growing appetite for casinos and integrated resorts (IR) have set up shop in Singapore despite the global recession.

Las Vegas-based architecture firm YWS opened its first overseas office in Singapore in March, while casino consultancy company Platform Asia was set up barely two months ago.

YWS director of Asia operations Michael Stewart told The Straits Times that his company is hoping to get first mover's advantage in setting up in Singapore and offering its expertise to the region. 

"Singapore, being so business friendly, with a highly educated workforce and its good transport links, is the perfect place to set something up," he said.

For now, both companies will focus on offering their services in Singapore.

But their eye is on the development in Asia. Taiwan is on the cards for both, with YWS also looking at Vietnam and Cambodia for its plans on gaming.

YWS Asia has two Singaporeans on the payroll, but hopes to grow the staff strength to 20 within the first three years. 

Source: The Straits Times