“The most important thing in this show was the discussion that existed between the offline and online markets, and I think ICE 2012 allowed us to bring together these differences, so we are very satisfied with the results”, pointed Kate Chambers, director of the exhibition, when talking about the balance of the event. “The show was a faithful representation of what both sectors can offer this growing industry”, she added in a conversation with Yogonet during the closure of ICE.
About the change of venue, Chambers pointed that, beyond having exhibited for many years in Earls Court, she considers that the change “will be very positive for exhibitors, because they will be gaining space in the new ExCel, I trust they will keep on expressing the new trends, products and services, and this movement will no doubt be very positive for the history of the show”.
In fact, far from feeling upset by Clarion decision, most companies saw the change as something positive, because the new venue, despite being farther, is more modern and counts with more square metres of space.
In short, the industry as a whole widely supported ICE not only with the initial bet of exhibitors, expanding and improving their presence, but also with the release of new products and novelties in this context. Besides, operators and executives that visited the event collaborated in achieving such success, because, once more, they came to visit London from all parts of the world, with the aim to know the latest offers of the sector.
ECA and Clarion will keep on working together.
As part of the support of the industry to ICE, during ECA event (European Casino Association) it signed an extention of its strategic alliance with ICE, assuring a joint venture at least until 2014.
The agreement, which was signed during the second day of the event, assures that both parties will work together in different areas for the support and growth of the industry in the whole European continent.
Ron Goudsmit, who was reelected as head of the ECA in the General Assembly carried out in ICE last January 24, pointed: “We are highly happy and pleased of expanding the positive relationship with which we consider ‘THE gaming show’ for our members, most of them present here in London. We will keep on working close to Clarion in events such as the International Casino Conference, among others. This agreement enables us to reach the next level in our activities, such as the 2013 edition, to be held in ExCel”.
Besides, Julian Graves from Clarion Events, added that “ECA and Clarion have worked together since 2006, and I am very happy with this extention, while we move the event to its new venue, ExCel, in 2013. Our commitment is to always work with the industry, and our relationship with ECA let us develop this commitment and continue with our policy of constant improvement”.