Archives January 2025

Barcelona. A special honor: Aristidis Tsikouras from the Merkur Group was presented with the “ICE Landmark Award 2025” at the ICE in Barcelona.

The CEO of GeWeTe received the award for his 25 years of service with the Merkur Group and his professional achievements in the gaming industry. The award recognizes the influence he has had on the global gaming industry over the course of his career. “We would like to recognize this achievement,” said the jury. Every year at the ICE, companies, associations and individuals are honored for their achievements in the gaming industry. The awards are presented by trade fair organizer Clarion Gaming.

“I feel honored and would like to thank you very much for the award. It is both an incentive and an obligation for me to continue making my contribution to the success of the industry in the future,” explained Aristidis Tsikouras, who celebrated his 25th anniversary with the Merkur Group in November. The father of two children has been the sole Managing Director of GeWeTe since 2019. Aristidis Tsikouras started as a field sales representative at adp Merkur in 1999 and moved to GeWeTe in Mechernich as Sales Director in 2003. There he worked his way up step by step. In 2006, he was granted power of attorney and in 2008 he was appointed to the management board for the sales division. From mid-2013, as Managing Director, he was responsible for all areas of the company with the exception of Development and Quality Management. “I have always felt a great deal of trust,” he explained. “I was given the opportunity early on to take on personnel responsibility as well as manage a company. I am very grateful for that.” This successful career has now been recognized with the “ICE Landmark Award 2025”.

Aristidis Tsikouras, a renowned civil engineer and structural designer, has recently been honored with the prestigious ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers) Landmark Award for his outstanding contributions to the field of civil engineering. The award, which is given annually to individuals who have made significant advancements in the industry, recognizes Tsikouras’ innovative and groundbreaking work in the design and construction of iconic structures around the world.

Tsikouras, who hails from Greece, has a long and distinguished career in civil engineering, with over 30 years of experience in the field. He is known for his expertise in structural design and his ability to push the boundaries of what is possible in engineering. Throughout his career, Tsikouras has worked on a wide range of projects, from skyscrapers and bridges to stadiums and cultural landmarks.

One of Tsikouras’ most notable projects is the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the tallest building in the world. Tsikouras played a key role in the design and construction of the iconic structure, which stands at over 800 meters tall. His innovative approach to structural design and his attention to detail were instrumental in ensuring the success of the project.

In addition to the Burj Khalifa, Tsikouras has worked on numerous other high-profile projects, including the Shard in London, the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, and the One World Trade Center in New York City. His work has earned him a reputation as one of the leading civil engineers in the world, and he is widely respected for his technical expertise and creative vision.

The ICE Landmark Award is a fitting tribute to Tsikouras’ remarkable career and his many accomplishments in the field of civil engineering. The award recognizes his dedication to excellence and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in engineering. Tsikouras’ work serves as an inspiration to aspiring engineers and a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in shaping the world around us.

In receiving the ICE Landmark Award, Aristidis Tsikouras joins a prestigious group of individuals who have made lasting contributions to the field of civil engineering. His work has left an indelible mark on the built environment, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of engineers for years to come. Congratulations to Aristidis Tsikouras on this well-deserved honor.

Clarion Gaming has confirmed that the 2025 Barcelona editions of ICE and iGB Affiliate will be recorded as the biggest gathering of gambling industry professionals in history.

Ahead of the final analysis being completed Clarion Gaming Managing Director Stuart Hunter stated: “Whilst we are in the process of undertaking all of the forensic checks and data interrogations I can confirm that the combined attendance for both shows will set a new world attendance record for any gambling event.

“We are confidently predicting an attendance of at least 56,000 industry professionals which exceeds the previous high of 52,345 set 12-months ago in London. We have taken the unprecedented step of announcing these figures due to the level of interest generated by what were two historic events.

“The final analysis will allow us to declare the number of unique visitors for both ICE and iGB Affiliate, the number of visitor days completed and a breakdown of nations represented. I can say that all of the indicators are in positive territory.”

Reflecting on the delivery of ICE and iGB Affiliate 2025, Stuart Hunter added: “We will commence a comprehensive company-wide debrief in week commencing 3^rd February but all of the feedback published across every media channel and the comments that have been sent direct to me have been hugely positive.

“I believe the experience we enjoyed in Barcelona and the window it provided on the industry was a result of a number of factors. Our world class exhibitors and the contractors they employed delivered an unbelievable representation of the industry, the Clarion Gaming team showed why they are the very best in the business working seamlessly with their peers at the Fira Gran Via Barcelona, the marketing and creative campaign resonated with our stakeholder communities  and finally our host city demonstrated why it is such a popular international destination.

“The decision to relocate to Barcelona was driven  by our customers and I am delighted that we have been able to bring their vision to life and in the process set new standards for the delivery of what are genuinely world class global business events catering for every sector of the gambling technology industry.”

As well as hosting 1,000 gambling brands ICE and iGB Affiliate included a wide ranging program of features, seminars and events including the World Gaming Forum, ICE Esports Invitational, the Sustainable Gambling Zone, Pitch ICE, the IGB Affiliate Conference Program, Brazil Now Seminar, Tribal Partnership Seminar, the launch of the ICE Research Institute and the Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging program.

ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona are set to host the largest attendance in history this year, as the two events come together to bring together industry professionals from around the world. The combination of ICE, the world’s largest gaming technology event, and iGB Affiliate Barcelona, the leading affiliate marketing event, is expected to draw a record number of attendees.

ICE, which stands for International Casino Exhibition, is a must-attend event for anyone involved in the gaming industry. It brings together suppliers, operators, and regulators from all sectors of the gaming industry to showcase the latest products and technologies. With over 600 exhibitors and thousands of attendees, ICE is the place to be for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving gaming industry.

iGB Affiliate Barcelona, on the other hand, is the premier event for affiliate marketers in the gaming industry. It brings together affiliates, operators, and affiliate program managers to network, learn, and do business. With over 3,000 attendees from over 100 countries, iGB Affiliate Barcelona is the place to be for anyone looking to grow their affiliate marketing business in the gaming industry.

By combining these two events, ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona are creating a powerhouse event that is expected to draw the largest attendance in history. This presents a unique opportunity for attendees to network with industry professionals from around the world, learn about the latest trends and technologies in the gaming industry, and do business with leading suppliers and operators.

In addition to the networking opportunities, ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona will also feature a packed schedule of seminars, workshops, and panel discussions on a wide range of topics relevant to the gaming industry. From regulatory updates to marketing strategies to technological innovations, attendees can expect to gain valuable insights and knowledge that will help them stay ahead of the competition.

Overall, ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona are shaping up to be the must-attend events of the year for anyone involved in the gaming industry. With record attendance expected, attendees can look forward to unparalleled networking opportunities, valuable insights and knowledge, and a chance to do business with some of the biggest names in the industry. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of history in the making at ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona!

Zitro enjoyed tremendous success during its participation in ICE Barcelona 2025. The booth itself was a ‘showstopper’, drawing widespread admiration from attendees. Described by some as “sending a message,” the booth stood as proof of the company’s ability to deliver innovative products and an unparalleled showcase that reinforced its position as one of the leaders in the global gaming industry.

Visitors experienced first-hand the remarkable progress the company has made in expanding and diversifying its product range. At the forefront of the showcase was the all-new CONCEPT cabinet line featuring Concept Prime, Concept Prime-J, and Concept Deluxe. The event also marked the European debut of Zitro’s latest game line-up for both the CONCEPT and GLARE cabinet lines, which includes Legendary Sword, Fairyland Quest, Lucky Vault, Cash Totems, Triple Charm Journey, Merging Fu Pots, King Fu Frog. among others. Each title introduces different gameplay mechanics paired with high-quality graphics, animations, and sound.

Zitro’s Mega Lounge has demonstrated impressive performance in key markets such as Portugal, Italy, Argentina, Peru, Paraguay, Costa Rica, Greece, and, more recently, Guatemala. At ICE Barcelona, the company unveiled the Grand Mega Lounge that incorporates the CONCEPT cabinet line, featuring existing and new games with both Grand Mega and Mega jackpots.

Zitro also highlighted the success of its Wide Area Progressive (WAP) product line. Recent launches in Panama, Costa Rica, and Peru have generated great enthusiasm, while Argentina saw the debut of Zitro’s first WAP this past December with more than 45 slot cabinets across five gaming halls at the prestigious Hipódromo de Palermo.

Additionally, Zitro announced the expansion of its digital gaming portfolio into the newly regulated Brazilian iGaming market. The division continues to expand its portfolio with new titles and upcoming seasonal games for Valentine’s Dayck’s D and Saint Patriay. It has also introduced various promotional tools to support operators in commercializing its games.

Commenting on the success of ICE Barcelona 2025, Sebastian Salat, President – International at Zitro, stated: “Zitro’s participation at ICE focused on reinforcing its commitment to becoming a global leader, capable of meeting the needs of casino operators anywhere in the world. The event provided an excellent platform to showcase the breadth and diversity of our gaming portfolio and connect with clients. Zitro is deeply grateful for the support received and remains committed to delivering value to operators and players worldwide.”

Zitro, a leading global gaming supplier, made a big impression at the ICE Barcelona 2025 exhibition with its eye-catching booth that showcased the latest and most innovative gaming products in the industry. The company’s booth stood out from the rest with its sleek design, interactive displays, and cutting-edge technology.

One of the highlights of Zitro’s booth was its new line of video slot machines, which featured stunning graphics, immersive sound effects, and exciting gameplay. Visitors to the booth were able to try out these new games firsthand and experience the thrill of playing on some of the most advanced gaming machines on the market.

In addition to its impressive lineup of video slot machines, Zitro also showcased its popular bingo products, including electronic bingo machines and software solutions. These products have been a hit with players around the world, and Zitro’s booth at ICE Barcelona 2025 gave attendees the opportunity to see why these games are so beloved by gamers of all ages.

Another standout feature of Zitro’s booth was its virtual reality gaming experience, which allowed visitors to immerse themselves in a virtual world where they could play games, interact with other players, and explore new and exciting environments. This cutting-edge technology drew crowds to the booth and left a lasting impression on everyone who tried it out.

Overall, Zitro’s booth at ICE Barcelona 2025 was a huge success, attracting attention from industry professionals, gamers, and media outlets alike. The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction was evident in every aspect of its booth, and it is clear that Zitro is a force to be reckoned with in the gaming industry.

Slovenia’s leading gaming and entertainment tourism provider, Hit, and Advansys, a company renowned for developing advanced IT systems for the global gaming industry, are establishing a new level of strategic partnership in the gaming sector.

To provide a modern and technologically sophisticated gaming operations management system, Hit has chosen Advansys’ state-of-the-art casino management system Nexio CMS, which is currently being used in more than thirty countries on four different continents. It is already operational in Hit’s new Casinò Drive-in, located at Šempeter pri Gorici, and by the end of the autumn the system will have networked all Hit casinos together.

L-R: Sandi Brataševec and Andrej Sluga

Hit’s President of the Management Board, Sandi Brataševec, commented: “The collaboration with Advansys reflects our commitment to developing and delivering the best gaming experience for our clients. By optimising our business processes, we are empowering our employees and at the same time delivering on a key project: Hit’s new sustainability strategy for the future.”

Advansys will also be presenting the latest version of Nexio, an integrated gaming system that is already well established in international markets, along with an example of best practice and its collaboration with Hit, at the ICE World Gaming Forum, which is taking place right now in Barcelona, as part of World Gaming Week.

Andrej Sluga, Sales Director at Advansys, added: “We are proud to support Hit in realising its product vision and achieving its business goals with our technological solutions. Our Nexio management system is remarkable for its reliability and ease of use, both very important features given the complexity of its content and its wide range of system modules. At Advansys, we are committed to providing global IT solutions for casinos for more than 20 years, and we are proud that Nexio has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Best Casino Management System (CMS) in this year’s European Casino Awards.”

Hit Universe of Fun, a leading entertainment company, has recently announced a partnership with Advansys, a technology solutions provider, to bring more entertainment options to customers. This collaboration aims to enhance the overall customer experience and provide a wider range of entertainment choices for individuals of all ages.

Hit Universe of Fun is known for its innovative and exciting entertainment offerings, including amusement parks, arcades, and virtual reality experiences. With this partnership, the company will be able to leverage Advansys’ expertise in technology solutions to further enhance its entertainment offerings and provide customers with a more immersive and interactive experience.

Advansys is a trusted provider of technology solutions, specializing in digital signage, interactive displays, and virtual reality experiences. By partnering with Hit Universe of Fun, Advansys will be able to showcase its cutting-edge technology solutions in a fun and engaging environment, allowing customers to experience the latest in entertainment technology.

One of the key benefits of this partnership is the ability to offer customers a wider range of entertainment options. By combining Hit Universe of Fun’s exciting entertainment offerings with Advansys’ innovative technology solutions, customers will have access to a diverse array of entertainment experiences that cater to their interests and preferences.

Additionally, this partnership will enable Hit Universe of Fun to stay ahead of the competition by offering unique and engaging entertainment options that set them apart from other entertainment providers. By leveraging Advansys’ technology solutions, Hit Universe of Fun can create a more dynamic and interactive entertainment experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

Overall, the partnership between Hit Universe of Fun and Advansys is set to bring more entertainment options to customers and enhance the overall customer experience. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, this collaboration is sure to be a success in the world of entertainment.

ICE 2025 was nothing short of spectacular: impressive visitor numbers, groundbreaking gaming innovations, and an atmosphere brimming with optimism and confidence made the debut of the world’s leading gaming exhibition in Barcelona an overwhelming success for the entire industry.

From January 20 to 22, more than 630 companies from around the globe gathered at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via to showcase the latest technologies for international gaming markets to approximately 55,000 visitors. As usual, the Merkur Group took part as well. The gaming giant from Germany traveled to the Spanish metropolis with eleven subsidiaries and two strategic partners to showcase its diverse portfolio as one of the largest exhibitors on an area of around 2,500m².

“Our expectations for the first ICE in Barcelona were high, and seeing them surpassed so significantly has deeply impressed us,” said Dominik Raasch, Management Board Member, Merkur Sales. “This success has infused the entire industry with a strong sense of courage and optimism for the months and years ahead. The decision to move to Barcelona was unquestionably the right one for the international gaming branch. The positive atmosphere and enormous visitor interest already have us eagerly looking forward to ICE 2026.”

On the spacious Merkur exhibition stand, the diverse and innovative content creations of the international sales brand Merkur Gaming in particular attracted the attention of the guests. Especially the Linked Progressive Jackpot Systems Clash Link, Link Wave, Mystic Link and Link Overdrive thrilled attendees with their exciting features, intelligent mechanics, and exceptional graphics. Another highlight was the M-Prime Multigame Package, sparking curiosity thanks to its advanced player interface and extensive portfolio of games. Providing the perfect showcase for the modern Merkur content was the Mod Ex cabinet family. Beyond its elegantly minimalist design, its unparalleled modularity stood out, allowing customization of the monitor, body, and base according to customer needs. Among the various cabinet models, the Mod Ex J55 emerged as a crowd favorite, impressing visitors with its expansive and strikingly curved display.

In addition to Merkur Gaming, numerous other subsidiaries demonstrated their product ranges in Barcelona, underscoring the Merkur Group’s diversity. While adp Merkur showcased the German land-based portfolio, Blueprint Operations and Blueprint Gaming presented their cutting-edge cabinets and game innovations for the UK market. For Merkur Dosniha, the ICE felt like a home game: The Spanish distribution and development brand delighted its customers with six new product launches, including the introduction of the Mod Ex and the debut of new titles such as Pig Run, Long Empowered, and Lady M.

Visitors seeking durable, high-quality, and reliable cash-handling and payment systems found their needs met at the GeWeTe booth. The cash-handling experts displayed an impressive array of products, with standout models such as the Cash-Center Premium, Cash-Center Compact Casino, and Cash-Center Slim. Meanwhile, online gaming enthusiasts found everything they could ask for in the Merkur eSolutions section. This umbrella brand, together with its subsidiaries Euro Payment Group, Bede Gaming, and edict egaming, demonstrated a modern 360-degree approach that successfully bridges the gap between land-based and online gaming with innovative product solutions.

Strategic partners Spintec and Gaming Arts were also key components of Merkur’s exhibition space. Both companies, having made their first joint appearance at G2E 2024 in Las Vegas, continued their successful collaboration with a strong showing at ICE. Spintec impressed attendees with its extensive ETG (Electronic Table Games) and live gaming offerings, while Gaming Arts captivated audiences with new game titles such as Lava Lock™ and Big Catch Bass Fishing™, along with its tailored Mod Ex cabinets for the North American market.

Athanasios “Sakis” Isaakidis, Chief Executive International at Merkur Gaming, affirmed the resounding success of the Merkur Group’s presence at ICE 2025: “We could hardly have imagined a more successful debut in Barcelona. Over the three days, we experienced immense foot traffic at our booth and overwhelming interest in our innovative products. The long and intensive preparation for this new chapter has paid off in full. As always, our mission now is to channel this outstanding feedback into our product development and return to Barcelona even stronger next year.”

The Merkur Group, a leading player in the technology and innovation sector, recently made a successful debut at a trade show in Barcelona, showcasing their latest products and services to a global audience. The event, which took place at the Fira Barcelona exhibition center, was a major milestone for the company and marked their entry into the European market.

The trade show debut was a significant achievement for the Merkur Group, as it allowed them to connect with potential customers, partners, and investors from around the world. The company’s booth was strategically located in a high-traffic area of the exhibition hall, attracting a steady stream of visitors throughout the event.

One of the highlights of the Merkur Group’s presence at the trade show was the unveiling of their latest product line, which includes cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. These innovations have the potential to revolutionize industries ranging from finance and healthcare to manufacturing and transportation.

In addition to showcasing their products, the Merkur Group also hosted a series of presentations and demonstrations to educate attendees about the benefits of their technology solutions. These sessions were well-received by the audience, who were impressed by the company’s expertise and vision for the future.

The trade show debut in Barcelona was not only a success for the Merkur Group in terms of generating interest and awareness for their brand, but also in terms of forging new partnerships and collaborations. The company was able to establish valuable connections with industry leaders, potential clients, and investors, paving the way for future growth and expansion.

Overall, the Merkur Group’s successful trade show debut in Barcelona was a testament to their commitment to innovation, excellence, and customer satisfaction. The company’s presence at the event was a resounding success, and they are poised to make a significant impact in the European market in the coming months and years.

The appointment of Mark Rutherford as Chief Executive Officer of the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) has been welcomed by Department for Enterprise Executive Agency, Digital Isle of Man.

Lyle Wraxall, Chief Executive Officer at Digital Isle of Man, said: “I would like to extend a warm welcome to Mark as the new Chief Executive of the GSC.

“The Isle of Man’s eGaming sector has experienced remarkable growth over the past 25 years, becoming home to a thriving, skilled community. A key driver of this success is the global reputation the GSC has built, positioning the Island as a leading jurisdiction for credible gambling licensing and protection.

“Mark’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment. Effective and robust regulation is crucial to maintaining the integrity of our digital economy and ensuring the Island remains competitive in the global market. Under his leadership, we are confident the GSC will further enhance the Island’s reputation as a trusted, forward-thinking jurisdiction for eGaming and related industries.

“As we move forward, the future regulation of the Island’s gambling sector will form a core part of Digital Isle of Man’s eGaming Strategy, currently in development. The Strategy will mark the start of a renewed effort to drive growth, adapt to market changes, and strengthen the Island’s reputation as a destination for high-quality eGaming businesses. By refining our approach and addressing key challenges, we aim to boost confidence in the sector and ensure its ongoing contribution to the economy.”

Kimberley Broad, Chair of the eGaming Strategic Advisory Board, also welcomed the announcement: “On behalf of the eGaming Strategic Advisory board, it is my pleasure to congratulate Mark on his appointment to Chief Executive of the GSC. eGaming is the second largest contributor to the Island’s GDP, and it’s therefore essential that our regulatory framework continues to be strong and effective. Accordingly, the Board and I look forward to working with Mark and his team to ensure the continued success of the industry on the Island.”

The Digital Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission has recently announced the appointment of a new CEO, marking a significant change in leadership for the regulatory body. The appointment comes at a crucial time for the commission, as the online gambling industry continues to evolve and face new challenges.

The new CEO, whose name has not yet been disclosed, brings with them a wealth of experience in the gambling industry and regulatory oversight. Their background in both the private and public sectors will be invaluable as they navigate the complex landscape of online gambling regulation.

One of the key responsibilities of the CEO will be to ensure that the Digital Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission remains at the forefront of regulatory best practices. This will involve staying abreast of developments in the industry, as well as working closely with stakeholders to address any emerging issues.

The appointment of a new CEO also presents an opportunity for the commission to reassess its strategic priorities and goals. With the online gambling industry constantly evolving, it is essential that the commission remains agile and responsive to changes in the market.

In addition to overseeing regulatory compliance, the new CEO will also be tasked with promoting responsible gambling practices and ensuring that operators adhere to strict standards of consumer protection. This will be crucial in maintaining the integrity of the online gambling industry and safeguarding the interests of players.

Overall, the appointment of a new CEO at the Digital Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission signals a new chapter for the regulatory body. With their leadership and expertise, the commission is well-positioned to continue its important work in overseeing and regulating the online gambling industry.

With the planned acquisition of Vikings Casinos, Europe’s market leader NOVOMATIC successfully continues its international growth strategy.

NOVOMATIC AG has signed an agreement to acquire the French casino group Vikings Casinos SAS, subject to certain conditions such as regulatory approvals.

With this strategic move, NOVOMATIC continues its international growth strategy in the French market and significantly expands its portfolio in one of the largest gaming regions in Europe.

The Vikings Casinos Group, based in Falaise, is one of the leading French casino chains, operating more than 10 live gaming casinos throughout France, including on the Côte d’Azur.

“With the acquisition of Vikings Casinos, we are consistently pursuing our international growth strategy and strengthening our position as a leading provider in the European gaming market. With this step, we have successfully laid the foundation for further sustainable growth in France” explains Stefan Krenn, Executive Board Member of NOVOMATIC AG.

“The acquisition by NOVOMATIC opens up new opportunities for growth and further development. We are confident that the integration into such an experienced and successful company as NOVOMATIC will help us to further strengthen our position on the French market. This change will enable us to work even more efficiently and benefit from the resources and expertise of the new owner” emphasises Luc Le Borgne, CEO of Vikings Casinos SAS.

NOVOMATIC, one of the leading gaming technology companies in the world, has recently announced its plans to acquire the French Vikings Casinos Group. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for NOVOMATIC as it expands its presence in the French gaming market.

The Vikings Casinos Group is a well-established player in the French gaming industry, with a strong portfolio of casinos and gaming establishments across the country. With this acquisition, NOVOMATIC will gain access to a network of successful casinos and gaming venues, allowing the company to further strengthen its position in the French market.

NOVOMATIC is known for its innovative gaming solutions and cutting-edge technology, and this acquisition will allow the company to bring its world-class products and services to a wider audience in France. The Vikings Casinos Group will benefit from NOVOMATIC’s expertise and resources, ensuring that customers continue to enjoy a high-quality gaming experience at their favorite casinos.

This acquisition is part of NOVOMATIC’s strategic growth plan, which aims to expand its presence in key markets around the world. By acquiring the Vikings Casinos Group, NOVOMATIC is positioning itself as a major player in the French gaming industry, with the potential to drive further growth and success in the years to come.

Overall, the acquisition of the Vikings Casinos Group by NOVOMATIC is a significant development in the gaming industry. It highlights NOVOMATIC’s commitment to growth and innovation, and its dedication to providing customers with the best possible gaming experience. With this acquisition, both companies are poised for success in the competitive French gaming market.

SUZOHAPP is excited to announce the appointment of Jim Kirner as its new Sales Director for North America.

With over 20 years of experience in the gaming industry, Jim brings a wealth of expertise to his role and will be pivotal in driving SUZOHAPP’s sales and product strategies across the region.

Throughout his career, Jim has been instrumental in driving transformational changes in the gaming sector, helping companies innovate and enhance the player experience. In the past, he directly worked on driving the adoption of Ticket-In, Ticket-Out (TITO) systems from the ground up and he played a critical role in the development of bonusing software solutions, as well as strategic accounts initiatives. His extensive experience spans a wide range of gaming sectors, including electronic table games, cash access services, ticket redemption kiosks, and slot machine sales at both the property and corporate levels. Prior to joining SUZOHAPP, Jim held key leadership positions at IGT, DiTRONICS, Interblock, and Aruze Gaming Global.

“I’m excited to join SUZOHAPP and leverage my experience to help drive growth and innovation across North America,” said Jim Kirner. “Our industry is evolving rapidly, and I look forward to working closely with our talented team to deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers while enhancing the gaming experience for players everywhere.”

“Jim’s extensive background and in-depth understanding of SUZOHAPP’s customer base will be invaluable in refining our sales and product strategy,” says Geoff Mc Dowell, President of SUZOHAPP. “We are confident that his leadership and industry knowledge will be crucial to our continued success in North America, and we look forward to his contributions in strengthening relationships with customers and partners across the region.”

SUZOHAPP, a leading provider of technology-driven cash handling solutions, has recently announced the appointment of Jim Kirner as the Sales Director for North America. With over 20 years of experience in sales and business development, Kirner brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.

In his new position, Kirner will be responsible for driving sales growth and expanding SUZOHAPP’s presence in the North American market. He will work closely with the company’s sales team to develop and implement strategies to increase revenue and market share.

Kirner’s extensive background in sales and business development makes him well-equipped to lead SUZOHAPP’s sales efforts in North America. Prior to joining SUZOHAPP, Kirner held various sales leadership roles at leading technology companies, where he successfully developed and executed sales strategies that drove revenue growth.

“I am excited to join SUZOHAPP and lead the sales team in North America,” said Kirner. “I look forward to working with our talented team to drive sales growth and deliver innovative cash handling solutions to our customers.”

SUZOHAPP is known for its innovative products and solutions that help businesses streamline their cash handling processes. With Kirner at the helm of the sales team, the company is poised to further expand its presence in the North American market and continue to provide customers with cutting-edge cash handling solutions.

“We are thrilled to have Jim join our team as Sales Director for North America,” said Sim Bielak, President of SUZOHAPP Americas. “His proven track record of driving sales growth and developing successful sales strategies will be instrumental in helping us achieve our goals in the region.”

Overall, Jim Kirner’s appointment as Sales Director for North America at SUZOHAPP is a strategic move that will help the company further solidify its position as a leader in the cash handling solutions industry. With Kirner’s leadership and expertise, SUZOHAPP is well-positioned for continued success in the North American market.

Casino International’s Matt Broughton spoke with Sportradar’s SVP Marketing Services, Niki Beier, about how operators can more effectively market to and engage with players.

Niki Beier is a seasoned professional in the sports industry, currently serving as the Senior Vice President of U.S. Sales at Sportradar, a global leader in sports data and content solutions. With over 15 years of experience in the field, Beier has a wealth of knowledge and insights to share about the rapidly evolving landscape of sports technology and data analytics.

In a recent interview, Beier discussed the challenges and opportunities facing the sports industry today, as well as the role that data and technology play in shaping the future of sports entertainment. She emphasized the importance of leveraging data to enhance fan engagement, drive revenue growth, and improve overall performance both on and off the field.

One of the key trends Beier highlighted is the increasing demand for real-time data and analytics in sports. With the rise of digital platforms and social media, fans now expect instant access to up-to-date statistics, scores, and insights. This presents a unique opportunity for sports organizations to deepen their connection with fans and create more personalized and engaging experiences.

Beier also discussed the impact of technology on sports betting and how data analytics are being used to inform betting odds and predictions. As sports betting becomes more mainstream in the U.S., there is a growing need for accurate and reliable data to drive informed decision-making and ensure fair play.

In addition to discussing the business side of sports, Beier also shared her thoughts on diversity and inclusion in the industry. As a female executive in a male-dominated field, she emphasized the importance of creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce to drive innovation and foster creativity.

Overall, Niki Beier’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the evolving landscape of sports technology and data analytics. Her experience and expertise make her a trusted voice in the industry, and her passion for driving positive change in sports shines through in every conversation. As the sports industry continues to evolve, professionals like Niki Beier will play a crucial role in shaping its future.

Burendo, an award-winning technology consultancy for the betting and gaming industries, is set to share the impressive results of its Betting and Gaming Transformation service, which has saved operators millions, at ICE 2025 next week.

As the event makes its Barcelona debut, Burendo representatives will discuss its bespoke services, which transform how clients engage with their technology, deliver user-centric solutions and drive business growth.

Burendo’s extensive portfolio of products and services take projects from concept to delivery, all designed to optimise user experiences, improve operational efficiency, and enhance how a company’s products, processes and people work.

A key highlight of Burendo’s presence will be the results driven by their expert team, which has more than 40 years of cross-sector experience in highly regulated industries. Their value-driven services are already yielding impressive results for clients across the industry and delivering up to a x10 return-on-investment.

By leveraging a data-driven strategy that transforms internal processes, Burendo has helped numerous operators streamline their operations, enhance customer acquisition and retention strategies, and make the most of their technology with end-to-end solutions. These transformations have empowered operators to adapt quickly to market changes while delivering cutting-edge, engaging experiences for their customers.

Burendo’s Client Relationship Director, Ashley Blackwell

Burendo’s Head of Engineering, Steven Burton, and Client Relationship Director, Ashley Blackwell, will be available to meet operators at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via between Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st January. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the full range of Burendo’s solutions, gaining valuable insights into the measurable impact of the company’s expert teams.

Steven Burton, Head of Engineering at Burendo (pictured above), said: “ICE provides the perfect platform to showcase the impressive results our talented teams have driven for partners in the betting and gaming industry.

“Through our award-winning methodology, we have used extensive experience and best practices to transform businesses in multiple sectors. Our pragmatic and forward-thinking approach helps clients stay ahead of competitors in a crowded market.”

Burendo will be at ICE 2025 in Barcelona from 20 – 21 January. To book a meeting, contact ashley.blackwell@burendo.com or [email protected].

Burendo, a leading provider of digital transformation services, is set to showcase the multi-million-pound results of its Betting and Gaming Transformation service at the upcoming ICE exhibition in London. The company has been working with some of the biggest names in the betting and gaming industry to help them modernize their operations and stay ahead of the competition.

The Betting and Gaming Transformation service offered by Burendo is designed to help companies in the industry leverage the latest technologies and best practices to improve their customer experience, increase revenue, and streamline their operations. By working closely with clients to understand their unique challenges and goals, Burendo is able to develop tailored solutions that deliver real results.

One of the key areas where Burendo has been able to make a significant impact is in helping companies improve their online betting platforms. With the rise of mobile technology and the increasing popularity of online gambling, it is more important than ever for companies in the betting and gaming industry to have a strong digital presence. Burendo’s Betting and Gaming Transformation service helps companies optimize their online platforms for speed, security, and ease of use, allowing them to attract and retain more customers.

In addition to improving online platforms, Burendo also helps companies in the betting and gaming industry enhance their marketing and customer engagement strategies. By leveraging data analytics and machine learning algorithms, Burendo is able to help companies target their marketing efforts more effectively, personalize their communications with customers, and drive higher levels of engagement and loyalty.

The results of Burendo’s Betting and Gaming Transformation service speak for themselves. Companies that have worked with Burendo have seen significant increases in revenue, customer satisfaction, and market share. By investing in digital transformation and partnering with a trusted provider like Burendo, companies in the betting and gaming industry can position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly competitive market.

At the ICE exhibition, Burendo will be showcasing some of the success stories from its Betting and Gaming Transformation service, as well as offering live demonstrations of its cutting-edge technologies and solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about how Burendo can help their companies thrive in the digital age and stay ahead of the competition.

Overall, Burendo’s Betting and Gaming Transformation service is a game-changer for companies in the betting and gaming industry looking to modernize their operations and drive growth. By leveraging the latest technologies and best practices, companies can transform their businesses and achieve multi-million-pound results. Be sure to visit Burendo at the ICE exhibition to learn more about how they can help your company succeed in the digital age.