What novelties have you presented at the show?

As with many gaming shows that are returning to the calendar it is clear that, even though the difficult times of Covid that player tastes and preferences have changed and evolved significantly. In Romania there is a swelling of interest in Linked Progressive Jackpots although they are not, as yet, a dominant feature of the country’s casinos and gaming halls. Nonetheless, Merkur made a major showing of these major attractions, displaying Link Zone, Solar Link and the latest innovation, Red Pocket Jackpot. Multigame collections are extremely popular in Romania, with fruit symbol games a firm player favourite. To these Merkur’s Bucharest display added the the Merkur Mystery jackpots and another firm favourite, roulette games (in both multiplayer and stand-alone formats) that were prominently on display

What has been your experience at the recent edition?

The Entertainment Arena Expo (EAE) having been forced to be absent during the pandemic shutdown was always going to be warmly welcomed, by both exhibitors and customers, on its return. That was absolutely the case in Bucharest as the show ran faultlessly and, to quote the Managing director of Merkur Gaming Distribution, Ms Hannelore Valkanov, in her opinion EAE had “exceeded her expectations”.

What has been the feedback from visitors?

Without doubt, hugely positive. As Merkur’s chief executive, international, Sakis Isaakidis noted: “There can be no doubting the respect and affection that the Merkur brand holds in Romania and the level of interest shown in our latest product range was extremely gratifying. Romania is an extremely important market for Merkur and it was really great to see so many customers, business partners and guests who gave us such a warm welcome.”

How do you see the Eastern European games of chance market with regard to the products that the firm commercializes?

The eastern European market is hugely significant. It is made up of many countries such as Romania, of course, together with Serbia and Bulgaria that each boast highly vibrant and successful gaming activity.  Through many years of market engagement the Merkur brand has become a favourite with operators and players alike. The reactions, from customers, business partners and guests that the local Merkur Gaming Distribution subsidiary and the international members that brought their support, showed clearly that in a hugely competitive market sector Merkur has strong brand recognition and a successful games portfolio that will continue to bring major commercial success.