This year’s edition of ICE London will be without its largest exhibitor after Austrian gaming giant Novomatic overnight announced its withdrawal due to COVID-19.
In a statement, Novomatic said the decision to withdraw had followed recent uncertainty around the show and completion of a detailed analysis and risk assessment. It is the latest in a number of high-profile exhibitors to pull out, among them German supplier Merkur.
“A multitude of adverse aspects – including the pandemic, logistical challenges and, last but not least, the unfavourable and unavoidable alternative date – have culminated in a situation in which participating in the show is no longer viable,” Novomatic said.
“The situation remains difficult to assess, due to the pandemic creating conditions that continue to prevent safe travel as well as a safe stay and participation at this gaming show – circumstances that have ultimately led to several cancellations by leading show exhibitors and participants.
“Novomatic considers the health of its employees as well as customers and partners a top priority and has therefore decided to take this unfortunate but measured and considered step.
“ICE is a key trade show for the entire gaming industry and Novomatic hopes that the successful cooperation can be continued under more favourable conditions in 2023.”
Novomatic has long been the most prominent exhibitor at ICE London each year with its 2020 stand covering more than 5,000 square meters – representing over 10% of the show’s total 49,500 square meters of floor space.
However, ICE organizer Clarion Gaming has promised to continue forward with Managing Director Stuart Hunter stating earlier this week, “We acknowledge that the April dates that we have secured do not suit everyone and that we will as a consequence miss a small proportion of our most loyal customers.
“This is highly regrettable and we continue to do our best to work through the challenges and provide support with preparations and planning for what is the world’s biggest and most influential gaming industry gathering.
“We have been really encouraged by the level of industry support that we are receiving expressed both publicly and in private emails. We have also commissioned independent research of the ICE database of stakeholders and the initial responses regarding the intentions to attend April’s edition of ICE London are overwhelmingly positive and augur well for our hundreds of exhibitors who will be on the show floor.
“I am sure the market understands that we are doing our level best to deliver another strong edition of ICE London and celebrate the return of the industry in the best possible way.”
