Crown Direct has pulled out of October's London Preview, managing director Dean Harding confirmed this week.
The Chorley-based distributor cited market conditions for the decision. Harding commented: "The simple fact is that the UK gaming market is incredibly difficult. Sales are at a snail’s pace as Cat C £70 still has had little impact in the adult gaming centre market place."
Show organiser Phil Howard said: "Preview is an independent show which has served the amusement and gaming industry for over 30 years. We are already working hard on this year’s exhibition, which we are sure will be every bit as successful as those that have gone before. Of course, there are some companies that for whatever reasons will not choose to exhibit at Preview this year - just as there were companies that stayed away from IGE and EAG.
"This is a shame, but we are already taking stand bookings from new companies that have never exhibited with us before - Crown’s decision not to exhibit at Preview this year presents a big opportunity to other distributors and continues the trend of some manufacturers going direct - this is the nature of the business. Preview will not be undermined by the negativity pervasive in certain sectors of the UK industry; instead we will continue to grow our influence in all the markets we serve internationally. We look forward to welcoming everyone on October 20-21."
