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In a major shake-up for the gaming industry, the well-known International Casinos Exhibition London and iGB Affiliate shows are set to depart from their long-established base in the UK capital. From 2025, these two significant industry events will call Barcelona home.
Barcelona Chosen as New Venue Over Other European Cities
Clarion Gaming, the organizer of both shows, has been considering alternative venues across Europe, with Paris, Madrid, and Barcelona shortlisted alongside London. In the end, it was Barcelona that emerged victorious. The Catalan Capital is now primed to host the industry’s key players as they convene to showcase their products and engage with other brands over a three-day period.
The shows will take place at the Fira de Barcelona on January 20-22, with iGB following on January 21-22, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the history of these events.
A Customer-Driven Decision Amidst Mixed Opinions
The decision to move these industry-defining shows wasn’t unanimous, as five represented organizations voted for London, with one remaining neutral. However, Clarion Gaming emphasized that the choice was largely driven by the need for alternatives to London, expressed by multiple exhibitors and B2B media dating back to 2021.
Alex Pratt, Group Managing Director at Clarion Gaming, acknowledged the enormity of the task ahead. He stressed that the decision to relocate an event of this scale is no small feat, but ultimately, the voice of the customer base was the deciding factor.
Barcelona’s bid was particularly compelling, offering the prospect of creating an exclusive venue and city experience for exhibitors like NetEnt, Microgaming, Novomatic, and attendees. As the only major events taking place in Barcelona during the January timeline, ICE and iGB Affiliate are poised to deliver a unique experience unrivaled by any other city.
Ripple Effects in the Industry
In a surprising turn of events, iGB Live has announced its move to London from Amsterdam. This move is likely influenced by Clarion’s decision to relocate ICE London to Barcelona, signalling a significant reshuffling of the gaming industry’s event calendar.
As we approach 2025, the gaming industry is braced for change. With Barcelona set to become the new hub for ICE London and iGB Affiliate, it’s clear that the sector is ready to embrace fresh perspectives and new opportunities.
