With new legislation incoming for the gambling industry, and likely to affect all sectors, the year’s Irish Gaming Show is set to be one of arguably unprecedented significance. Delegates are expected to be in attendance from all aspects of Ireland’s gaming spectrum, including, but not limited to, casinos, online gaming operators, and bingo. The event will take place at the Moran Red Cow Conference Centre & Hotel from 6th to 7th March. Now entering its 38th year, it is the only event of its kind to run nationally. Notable exhibitors scheduled to attend include Merkur Gaming, FunFair Amusements, Fininvest, ISMS, Eurocoin, GambleAware Ireland and Win Systems.
One unique aspect to this event is that, while its emphasis is on gambling and casino games, it does also feature sections devoted to non-financial gaming, including pool, vending, and, as stated on their website, “kiddie rides”. This strange hybrid of gambling and amusement show is something that would most likely not be considered, or even permitted, in the UK, given the recent furore over child-oriented gambling promotions.
Casino Technology will be in attendance, showcasing their newest EZ Modulo and Aurora slot machines. The EZ Modulo boasts a 27-inch touchscreen and a package of 60 games on offer within a single cabinet. Amatic Industries will be showcasing their wares, including their latest, the Performer Grand Arc and the upright Amarox 24, alongside their supplier Genesis Games, with whom they have an exclusive arrangement. Amatic will also be offering a viewing of their electronic Roulette Grand Jou. Another major operator showcasing their slots will be Apex, particularly their 43-inch curved screen Premium Pinnacle Curved 4 Jackpot Ireland, which allows up to four players to take part at once. Furthermore, over forty casinos will be represented at the event, with over 50 exhibitors running stands.
It’s also widely expected that some updates on political progress with legislation will be announced during the event. Many operators are thus far unwilling to risk launching new machines and new ventures in Ireland with so much legislative flux and delay besetting the nation, despite the lucrative potential offered by the low 1% tax rate on gambling corporations. Conventions such as this give operators and suppliers a chance to compare notes and see how the competition is handling the challenges of this complex market.
