“We will continue to view challenges in the economy as an opportunity for G2E Asia”

What is the balance of the show, in terms of the number of visitors and exhibitors? What was their feedback?
G2E Asia 2009 had a total of 135 companies from 20 countries on the show floor.  There were just over 4300 visitors and feedback from all of our participants was very positive despite all the challenges facing the economy and the industry. 

What were the highlights of the conferences held within the event?
Our first day of conference provided two separate offerings which were both very well received. Our Global Markets Forum collectively provided a very informative overview of the economic and regulatory environment of various Pan-Asian markets, and our Gaming Management Certificate Program again delivered a very engaged group of gaming managers.
Both offerings were complimented by an enlightening keynote presentation by Lawrence Ho, who was kind enough to take time out of his very busy schedule to join us, having opened City Of Dreams less than 24 hours prior. We also received many positive comments for the remainder of the event including our three part marketing series on Players’ Clubs, as well as a panel on the integration of entertainment in Asian casino properties to name a few.

Did the worldwide economic crisis and the visa restriction in Macau have any particular effect in the show?
G2E Asia was smaller in size this year in terms of both exhibitors and attendees. Those who participated in the event understand that Asia will continue to be a growing force in gaming and want to make sure they’re taking advantage of all the opportunities an event like G2E Asia can provide. 

What was the performance of the event, compared to the 2008 edition?
Gross exhibit space went from 180,000 square meters in 2008 to 150,000 square meters in 2009. 

What are your expectations for the future? Are you currently thinking of the challenges you will have to face for G2E Asia 2010?
We will continue to view challenges in the economy as an opportunity for G2E Asia.  We will alter our content to fit the needs of the industry and we will continue to look at other ways to enhance the value for our customers at G2E Asia. You will see more online content out of G2E in the coming year including the largest listing of online products in the industry as well as fresh educational content that can only be seen online. Stay tuned for more information coming in the near future.

What was the performance of the main companies that exhibited in the show?
All of the major exhibitors will be coming back in 2010 and many of our largest Asian manufacturers have taken larger space for next year. While they did report that the visitors numbers were down they also reported that all of their important customers were there and that the quality of every visitor was very high.