EAG 2025 Show Report: A Successful Event with New Features

This year’s EAG show at London’s ExCeL introduced two new sub-brands—The London Casino and Gaming Expo and The Social Immersive Entertainment Show—each with distinct characteristics and dedicated areas on the show floor. The Casino show featured a separate age-restricted entrance, reinforcing its focus on the gaming sector.

Attendance and Atmosphere

The event experienced a mixed reaction in terms of attendance. Day one saw fairly good visitor numbers, though some exhibitors remarked that it felt quieter than previous years. However, day two was considerably busier, with all three show areas bustling with activity. Exhibitors initially voiced some concerns, possibly due to the structural changes and adaptations needed for the new show format, but as the event progressed, spirits lifted, and the overall consensus was that the show was a success.

Show Highlights

Several events stood out at EAG 2025:

• The Pub Summit, led by Inspired’s Peter Davies, was a well-attended and engaging discussion forum on the first day.
• The Tuesday evening drinks reception proved to be a popular networking event.
• On Wednesday evening, the reception at the Hippodrome Casino was another key highlight, featuring the much-anticipated announcement of the winners of the dealer competition held during the show.
• Martin Burlin, the outgoing show chairman, was recognised for his contributions to the event during the networking drinks reception.
• The Bacta Lounge provided an inviting space for networking, while well-placed bar areas encouraged informal business discussions.
• The EAG Awards, as highlighted by Bacta’s George McGregor, celebrated excellence and professionalism within the industry.

Product Showcase and Industry Insights

While new product launches were a key attraction, some attendees noted that there was not a vast amount of amusement product beyond what had already been showcased at IAAPA. Nevertheless, exhibitors reported valuable business discussions and strong sales, with key buyers and decision-makers in attendance.

One challenge raised by some exhibitors was the issue of companies promoting their presence without officially exhibiting and the ongoing problem of selling in the aisles. While this remains a concern, it did not significantly detract from the overall positive experience of the show.

Product Highlights

Several standout product launches and showcases caught attendees' attention, including:

• Inspired Gaming’s Astra Community Party 500 and other new offerings (Read More).
• SEGA’s latest product line-up and updates from their booth (Read More).
  The launch of Whitehouse Leisure and Rays of Sunshine Toy Fundraiser at EAG (Read More).
• Reflex Gaming’s 20th appearance at EAG, reinforcing their long-standing presence in the industry (Read More).
• MH Leisure’s debut of a Bluey-licensed children’s ride, along with a showcase of the best of British engineering (Read More).

Final Verdict

EAG 2025 was a success, with key industry professionals in attendance and strong business results reported. The introduction of the London Casino and Gaming Expo and Social Immersive Entertainment Show provided fresh dimensions to the event, which are expected to evolve further in future editions. With its mix of product innovation, networking opportunities, and industry discussions, EAG remains a key date in the amusement and gaming calendar.

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16 January 2025

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