The gradual polarisation of German arcades into fewer hands continues. The country has one of the largest arcades businesses in Europe, with nearly 8,000 locations, but in the past two years they have been eagerly sought-after by predators from outside of Germany.
Austria’s Novomatic is steadily increasing the size of its German arcades operation. The Russian-owned Ritzio took a large stand at the last Ima show in order to talk to German arcade owners who may be thinking of selling. And rumours persist in Germany that a major UK-based company is looking for German arcades.
One German operator told InterGame this week: "Many small and medium German operators are selling their arcades. The recession coupled with the generous prices offered for their businesses is very tempting, especially for operators in their late 40s and early 50s."
Prices are thought to be so generous that one operator in Hamburg sold his business and promptly opened seven new arcades.
