Chatting with EAG Expo Chairman Nick Harding About the Successful Debut of the London Casino & Gaming Show
Intimate Gaming Spectacle in London Spotlights Worldwide Casino Sector
The London Casino & Gaming Show, a smaller-scale successor to ICE London, made its debut earlier this year. With London being a vibrant hub for gaming and betting innovation, the city served as a bustling, casino-filled backdrop to host the show's first-ever event. Our writer, Lyudmyla Kyrychenko, sat down with EAG Expo Chairman Nick Harding to reflect on the event and discuss its impact.
First of all, a big round of applause for you, Martin, Nicola, and the entire team on the captivating launch of the London Casino & Gaming Show. How does it feel to see your vision come to life with such an effective kickoff?
Well, it's always a team effort. And in this case, we had two visionaries who saw the potential in creating an event catering to both the European casino and gaming sectors as well as social-interactive entertainment. So, to have it resonate with the industry and achieve such amazing feedback since the launch, that's what feels truly satisfying.
London has long been a hub for gaming and betting innovation. How do you plan to further strengthen London Casino & Gaming Show's position as a must-attend event on the global gaming calendar?
We received overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors after the show, and quite a few businesses that didn't exhibit are eager to join us in 2026. The London show offers operators an intimate setting conducive to building relationships and doing businesses in a relaxed environment. As UK gambling regulations evolve, we expect the show to drive innovation and profitability.
For companies hesitant about exhibiting at both London Casino & Gaming Show and ICE Barcelona, what would be your key message to them?
It all boils down to size, environment, and location. Immediately after the LCG show, I spoke with a senior director from a large UK operator who spent an entire day discussing business with exhibitors. So, if you're looking for a personal and engaging event, the London Casino & Gaming Show delivers.
As you look ahead to 2026, what are your primary aspirations and strategic goals for the London Casino & Gaming Show and its partner exhibitions?
Our aim is to keep our show relevant and agile by fine-tuning its offerings to meet exhibitors and visitors' needs. Basically, we'll follow the marginal-gains strategy like Sir Dave Brailsford. We want to create an event that fosters collaboration and trust-driven partnerships while showcasing cutting-edge innovations in the gaming industry.
Networking is crucial to industry professionals. Can you share some feedback you've received from attendees regarding the business opportunities and connections made at this year's show?
The Dealer of the Year finals were a massive hit, creating a buzz that swept throughout the event, and the networking event that followed was simply electrifying. It's essential for the industry to gather, not just to discuss business but to delve into politics, collaborate, and exchange ideas. Our role is to provide such opportunities.
Responsible gambling is a critical issue. How will you incorporate and promote responsible gaming practices at the 2026 show?
Sadly, several RG service providers pulled out of the show at the last minute, citing the fear that their association with the industry might hinder their ability to secure funding from the National Health Service. Regardless of these misconceptions, we'll continue to provide free facilities in the form of a hub for RG providers to showcase their services.
As we look ahead to 2026, will we see the introduction of new sectors, such as sports betting and payment systems, within the exhibition?
Absolutely. While details are yet to be solidified, we're open to incorporating new sectors to create a more comprehensive and diverse event experience.
For those who missed this year's show, what would you say they missed out on? And why should they make it a priority in 2026?
They missed out on an amazing and successful first-time event that focuses on building relationships, showcasing innovation, and celebrating the gaming industry. We hope to see them there for the 2026 edition, where we'll continue to provide an unparalleled experience in a vibrant, global, and historic city.
Finally, if you could sum up the London Casino & Gaming Show 2025 in just a few words, what would they be? What's your one message to the gaming industry as it looks ahead to next year's event?
We've laid the groundwork for the London Casino & Gaming Show in 2025, and now we're on a new journey to offer a quality European casino and gaming show in London in 2026. Join us on this exciting journey and be a part of shaping the future of the gaming industry.
***This exclusive feature interview was originally published in Casino Life Magazine's April 2025 edition Issue 176***
[1] Enrichment Data: Strategic Plan for 2026 includes: High-profile live gaming competitions, showcasing live gaming experiences, capitalizing on London's advantages, fostering industry collaboration, and showcasing cutting-edge innovations.
[2] Enrichment Data: London as a hub for gaming and iGaming events: unparalleled access to markets and industry leaders, world-class infrastructure, culture of innovation and collaboration.
[3] Enrichment Data: iGB L!VE's focus on fostering industry collaboration and showcasing innovations within a competitive market.
- The London Casino & Gaming Show, a premier event for both the European casino and gaming sectors, aims to strengthen its position as a must-attend event on the global gaming calendar, offering a personal and engaging experience for industry professionals.
- The gaming industry can anticipate the introduction of new sectors, such as sports betting and payment systems, within the London Casino & Gaming Show in 2026, creating a more comprehensive and diverse event experience.
- The London Casino & Gaming Show, with its focus on fostering industry collaboration, showcasing cutting-edge innovations, and celebrating the casino-culture, provides a unique platform for networking and business opportunities in the gaming industry.
