Merkur completes Gaming Arts acquisition to re-establish presence in U.S. gaming market

Merkur Group has completed its acquisition of Las Vegas-based Gaming Arts, following regulatory approval earlier this year. The transaction closed on September 15, marking the German supplier’s formal return to the United States gaming market after a two-decade hiatus.

In May, the Nevada Gaming Commission granted Merkur a licence to manufacture and distribute its products in the state while also approving the takeover of Gaming Arts, a specialist in slot machines, bingo, keno, and electronic table games. The deal gives Merkur direct access to a wide range of U.S. jurisdictions and strengthens its position in one of the world’s most tightly regulated gaming markets.

“The acquisition is a key element of our re‐entry strategy into the U.S. market, one of the most respected and strictly regulated gaming markets worldwide. With Gaming Arts, we are now able to place Merkur products directly in a wide range of U.S. jurisdictions," Dominik Raasch, Management Board Member at Merkur Games.

"This marks an important step in expanding our international growth beyond European borders.” 

Gaming Arts employs 68 people. The company’s portfolio will now be expanded to include Merkur cabinets, notably the recently launched Mod Ex family, combined with Gaming Arts’ game content.

“This partnership elevates everything we’re doing at Gaming Arts. With Merkur’s global reach and resources behind us, we are positioned to deliver bold innovation and world-class execution like never before. We’re energized, aligned, and ready to write the next great chapter in this company’s story,” said Robert Ziems, CEO of Gaming Arts.

The integration builds on a North American partnership between the two firms established in 2023. Gaming Arts brings an established customer base and licences in more than 155 jurisdictions, offering Merkur a ready platform for growth in North America.

“This facilitates exciting growth opportunities in North America, strengthens synergies within Merkur Group, and contributes meaningfully to our global expansion,” said Lars Felderhoff, Chairman of the Management Board at Merkur Group.

Merkur operates in over 90 countries and has recently been expanding internationally, including in the United Kingdom. The Nevada licence and Gaming Arts acquisition are expected to form the foundation of its U.S. market strategy, supported by the company’s emphasis on regulatory compliance.

Michael Gauselmann, Chairman of the Merkur Group Supervisory Board, stated that point when the licence was granted in May. He said the approval reflected a “legally compliant and forward-looking approach in all areas without exception,” describing the licence as critical for the group’s long-term future. The move comes as several other international suppliers are expanding into Nevada, highlighting the appeal of the U.S. market.