ICE London Wednesday announced that its Consumer Protection Zone (CPZ) will be officially opened Feb. 6 by U.K. Gambling Commission Chief Executive Arthur Rhodes. Rhodes’ opening will be followed by a donation of £41,000 to a safer gambling charity selected by CPZ supporters and donors.
Monies for the donation were raised through contributions by Light & Wonder, Flutter, Betsson Group, IGT, Novomatic, Neccton, and Playtech.
“The CPZ was created at the suggestion of the Gambling Commission’s Tim Miller,” said Clarion Gaming’s Director of Industry Insight and Engagement Ewa Bakun in a statement. “Therefore it’s totally appropriate that the 2024 edition, the last to be held in London prior to our relocation to Barcelona next year should be opened by the Commission’s Chief Executive, Andrew Rhodes.
Bakun added that ICE London is the first B2B gambling exhibition to include an area on its show floor dedicated to safer gambling. Since launching in 2018, the CPZ has grown in both size and status to the extent that post-show research has confirmed it as the most popular ICE feature by show visitors.
“The 2024 edition of the Consumer Protection Zone is the biggest on record comprising 20 booths showcasing technology and solutions providers alongside the industry’s leading safer gambling charities,” Bakun said. “It remains the perfect place for all sectors to learn and share insights as to how we can deliver safe gambling experiences for players.”
Light & Wonder Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility Tracy Skenandore said the company is “committed to serving as responsible corporate stewards driven by purpose.”
“With the best interest of our employees, players and communities at the forefront of our work, we are dedicated to investing in charities that support our communities, foster sustainability, support responsible gaming for our players, and which build a diverse and inclusive culture where equity and belonging can thrive,” Skenandore said. “It’s for all of these reasons we have chosen to support the Consumer Protection Zone as a donor, alongside our industry partners, to support worthy charities in both the UK and internationally that will make a lasting impact.”
Dr Michael Auer, Managing Director of OpenBet’s Neccton Managing Director Dr. Michael Auer noted that the CPZ features the latest developments in player protection and safer gaming.
“At Neccton, we continue to develop the most up-to-date player protection tools and contribute to the wider discussion around responsible gaming using research-informed insights, which is why we are thrilled to be part of this year’s line-up of speakers at the CPZ,” Auer said. “The last year has been pivotal in the global regulatory landscape and we expect the Zone to be a major focal point for many ICE attendees.”
