Merkur Gaming pulls out of ICE London 2022 citing concerns about the return on investment and safety of its employees, partners, & customers! (Image by geralt at pixabay.com)
Merkur Gaming has released a statement revealing why the company has withdrawn from its participation as a major exhibitor at ICE London 2022. The company reluctantly pulled out from attending the event which will take place between the 12th and 14th of April in London. The company cited a number of factors behind its decision, but primarily, Merkur felt that the investment required would not result in a positive return.
Previously planned for February, but rescheduled for April because of COVID-related issues, the ICE London event had previously attracted allegations from Merkur regarding the suitability of London to hold the event. It seems those concerns remain, as Merkur claims it cannot accept the new dates for the event. The company clarified further by stating that holding the event so close to the Easter Holiday period with the Omicron variant rampant in the UK would pose health risks for all those that attend.
On top of this, the added logistical difficulties due to the country’s Brexit removal make it expensive and difficult for people to attend. When all of that is considered, Merkur believes that attendance figures will be negatively affected like never before and therefore the company does not believe it will see a positive return on its investment.
Merkur states that as a company, it has a duty of care for its employees, business partners, and customers and believes that this must be a major priority. The company does not want to place anyone associated with it, at any risk.
Merkur Still Plans to Reconnect with ICE in the Coming Years
While this news is a blow to one of the iGaming industry’s biggest annual events, Merkur does plan to reconnect with ICE in the coming years. The company believes that this event has played a big part in its success over the years and certainly has plans to re-engage in the future. However, this will only happen when the event is held at the right time, in the right place, and in adequate conditions. It would seem that the location is one of the biggest concerns, as Merkur has long objected to holding the event in London.
What Could This mean for ICE 2022? Although yet to comment on this latest development that Merkur Gaming pulls out of ICE London 2022, the events organisers will surely have to have a rethink about its new dates, and quickly too. If Merkur has pulled out, it begs the question of whether other major developers, operators, and suppliers will come to the same decision. Would it be better if they rescheduled once again? Once the Omicron variant has cleared up and travel restrictions have eased?
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