ICE Barcelona will see record attendance of European casino industry professionals, predicts ECA

The European Casino Association (ECA) is preparing for what it anticipates will be a record attendance of casino industry professionals when ICE 2025 launches in Barcelona (20th – 22nd January).

ECA Secretary General Hermann Pamminger, who has worked in the industry since joining Casinos Austria International in 1991, said there is "a growing sense of anticipation" surrounding the relocation to Barcelona. 

He stated: "Whether it has been held at London Olympia, Earls Court London or most recently ExCeL London, ICE has served the industry superbly well with ECA members contributing to the show's success story helping it to achieve its status as the world-leading business event for the global industry.

"2025 will be the first time that ICE and its predecessor ATE will have been staged outside the UK since launching nine decades ago and the momentous decision to relocate to a new and much bigger venue in an exciting vibrant city on mainland Europe has captured the imagination of the ECA and its members.

"The ECA's elected Board of Directors, which consists of senior and experienced representatives of the European licensed and land-based casino industry, is planning the presence in Barcelona in line with our core aims to address and promote issues related to casino operations and increase awareness of the industry amongst EU policymakers and stakeholders.

ECA is a trade association representing the interests of 700 casinos in 29 countries. Hermann said that the feedback that he has received from ECA members suggests that "more casino industry executives than ever before" will be at the ICE meeting. This includes UK members, who Pamminger said are excited to explore this new location to engage with the wider European industry. 

"I believe that the move to Barcelona will accelerate the number of casino executives and buyers from across Europe attending," said Pamminger. "Every successful brand needs to evolve and the relocation will dawn a new era of opportunity for Europe's land-based casino industry. ICE 2025 promises to be a landmark celebration and the excitement amongst our members is palpable."

"We are also looking to maintain and possibly increase the number of our formal meetings and events that take place during 'ICE' week such as our Board Meeting and General Assembly as well as the traditional CEO dinner – to cater to this increased need."

The first edition of ICE to be held outside the UK will feature a record 1,000 exhibitors representing "every sector and from every jurisdiction." ICE and the co-located iGB Affiliate will occupy 120,000 square meters of The Gran Via, Barcelona, compared to the 100,000 sqm used in London.