“SAGSE is synonym of what happens in the Latin American market”

What balance can you make of 2012?
In short, 2012 was a very positive year where a clear evolution in the sector was noted. Year after year, we perceive a progressive professionalism where there are more trained staff and which understand the importance of the human relations created in our SAGSE events. It was a year with many obstacles, but count on a competitive advantage that let us avoid the threatens and obtain positive results. It was a challenging but interesting year. The loyalty of many actors of the sector that believe in SAGSE was noted.

Which were the main challenges that you had to face as organizers of events for the industry?
Every year brings different challenges. Challenges are always according to the agenda, but we count on a dynamic structure dedicated to solve perfectly the situation of the markets. SAGSE, with its events in Panama and Buenos Aires has an umbrella effect, which covers a whole region, compensating particular situations of each country.

In your view, In which way did the crisis that some European countries are living and the current situation of some Latin American markets affect in the assistance of international operators (may be as exhibitors or visitors)?
We believe that crisis are moments of opportunity. We are not scared of scenarios in “crisis” but we take them as big challenges so the one with the clearest vision will take regional advantage. We create a frame so they can evolve, create and improve.

We cannot demand things to change if we always do the same. The crisis is the best blessin that can happen to people and countries, because crisis brings progress. Creativity is born in anguish. It is in the crisis where discoveries and inventions are born, as well as the big strategies. Without crisis there are no challenges, without challenges life is a routine, a slow agonizing downturn. Without crisis there are no merits. It is in crisis where the best of each person appears.

SAGSE is synonim of what happens in Latin America. The regional gaming industry has been growing exponentially for several years, and it still has much more to develop and expand.

At the same time, it cannot be generalized. Each situation and each country has its own rules. The most important thing in this sector are human and personal relationships. We have the advantage that Latin America is becoming more and more firm depending on its legislation, bringing legal security and stability. The player also evolves and learns to enjor games of chance as an entertainment option.

In this context of “crisis”, in SAGSE it could be noted a slow decrease in the number of visitors, but an increment in quality, because all the companies related to the industry assisted to SAGSE, although they possibly chose to send less representatives.

In your opinion, How should exhibitions evolve in order to accompany the changes in the industry?
We consider that the organization of exhibitions is not a work for novices. Our experience tells us that the evolution is brought naturally, where survival happens in the most suitable events, only in those that know how to cover the needs of the industry, and, above all, to creat a clear return on investment. In ny view, there should be less local events and focus in integrating events in large regions, such as Panama and Buenos Aires, where it covers a whole large territory, a very wide area in an environment where work and fun walk hand in hand.

What are you preparing for 2013?
For 2013 we are preparing to give the best of us in order to have the clear mind and generate events with positive results for the industry. We prepare for a year in which there will be an evolution of the sector and we will support the change. SAGSE is the most important iGaming community. We look forward to see you in SAGSE Gaming Panamá 2013 (May 8 and 9) and in SAGSE Gaming & Amusement Buenos Aires 2013 (November 12, 13 and 14).