Concern over the layout of the 2009 IGE show and the shutting off of the escalators that connect IGE with ATEI, which has been "sent upstairs," rumbles on, with the latest complaint coming from Games Warehouse.
In a statement to UK weekly newspaper Coinslot, Nick Hardy of the company said: "Despite the fact that Games Warehouse is now an IGE exhibitor and therefore allowed to stay downstairs with the grown-ups, seeing the force that was once ATEI sent upstairs out of the way like a naughty child is a sad development. But by far the most irritating element of the coming extravaganza is the decision to install physical barriers between ATEI and IGE."
Hardy went on to say that the presence of barriers between the two shows will neither benefit visitors or exhibitors and that the decision should be reversed.
It is ludicrous to suggest that separate ATEI and IGE entry points and closed-off escalators are of benefit to anybody," he said. "Particularly show visitors for whom the entire event is staged. Given that gaming equipment provides most of the income in arcades it would make sense for arcade owners to have quick access to the gaming areas within the hall."
In the statement Hardy also questioned Clarion’s claims that the majority of ATEI exhibitors want the exhibition closed off, saying: "I don’t believe it for a moment and want more analysis into this as I believe that the majority to which they refer is in fact a very vocal minority.
"That rare commodity common sense would dictate that the vast majority of exhibitors and visitors from all sides would welcome freedom of movement."
Defending its decision, Clarion Gaming, continues to claim that it has "been working with customers throughout the year to formulate a structure that the majority of exhibitors were happy with and which offers visitors the chance to attend both shows in one venue."
