A re-energised amusement industry, equipped with an arsenal of cutting-edge products and services, is this month descending on London’s ExCeL for EAG International 2015.
THE market for pay-to-play amusements in Europe has been slow to recover from the recession, yet there are encouraging signs that in 2014 it turned a corner and is on track for growth again.
There has been a sense that although the consumer belt-tightening since 2008 has had a significant impact, the industry nonetheless survived this hugely challenging period and is now well positioned for the future. There is a tangible feeling among consumers that, even if they remain cautious, there is still strong demand for fun. Seizing the opportunity, the amusement industry has doubled its efforts to bring exciting, value-added entertainment experiences to this far more discerning customer base. Recent product launches and industry trade events - the Autumn Coin-op Show in the UK and the IAAPA Attractions Expo in the US - suggest that R&D resources have been well spent.
For the European coin-op and amusement industry, EAG International kicks off the year with an opportunity to present its latest and greatest products and services to a broad audience.
Now in its sixth year, the event is expected to be as well attended and informative as previous years, thanks to strong demand for stands and a new events programme. Indeed, much of EAG’s popularity comes from the fact that, for many of the thousands of buyers and industry professionals that attend, the show provides an opportunity to share ideas and best practices, while also experiencing the new games and equipment coming to market this year. Although some products will have received their debuts at the IAAPA show in November, many will be unveiled for the first time in London. The expo is taking place earlier this month than in previous years, following a new tenancy agreement with the operators of ExCeL, in a move that organiser Swan Events explained will secure its future at the world-class venue.
Leading names from across the UK and international business will once again be exhibiting at ExCeL, while a number of first-time exhibitors will also be making the trip to the capital, adding to the its global representation.
Read the full article in the January issue of InterGame
