Electronic table game specialist Interblock has spent the last two years preparing for a concerted push on the Australian market - a push that began this week at the AGE show in Sydney.

John Connelly

“This is a complex market due to the multiple protocols, but we have now got the approvals we need,” CEO John Connelly (pictured) told InterGaming. “You need to anticipate between 18 and 24 months ahead for this type of market.

“As well as the approvals, we now have the right product mix for a strategic entry into Australia. So after two years of preparation and investment, this show marks our first concerted foray into this market place.” He added that the company had also invested in new people in the region.

He was pleased with business on the first day of the show. “It was surprisingly busy compared with the last few years,” he said. “But I put that down to the new venue, which is fantastic.”

Among new products launched at AGE was a stand-alone roulette game designed for Australian pubs and clubs. “This will be introduced into New South Wales next week, followed by a launch in Victoria,” said Connelly.

“We decided on a stand-alone product because the pubs and clubs traditionally site slot machines. We wanted to introduce them to table gaming but within the same format. The feedback that we have received from visitors to the show has been excellent. We see this as a way to bring new players into these venues.”