Chairman’s Blog

This week, Richard Hayler, Managing Director of IBAS, and I attended the ICE Show at its new location in Barcelona. As one of the largest events in the gambling industry, ICE serves as a gathering point for gambling providers, businesses, and other stakeholders to connect, discuss key trends, and explore new opportunities. It also hosts vital discussions around regulation, consumer protection, and the evolving challenges in the sector.

As long-standing exhibitors, IBAS has played an active role in the forums, contributing to discussions on the adjudication of gambling disputes and the broader topic of consumer protection. With the event’s move to Barcelona, we were keen to see whether these important conversations would continue to thrive in the new venue.

One area of interest was the ‘Sustainable Gambling Zone’, previously known as the ‘Consumer Protection Zone’. The organisers touted this area as having nearly doubled in size, but it quickly became clear that this increase referred more to floor space than actual content. The zone seemed to occupy an adjoining corridor between two halls, and while the show itself appeared larger overall, it seemed as though representation from the third sector had diminished. Several key players who have been a regular presence in previous years were noticeably absent.

As a key player within the third sector, IBAS is dedicated to supporting the gambling industry by providing consumer protection and preventing harm. I believe it will require a targeted effort from the organisers to bring back the important voices and organisations that help ensure the sector remains accountable and responsible.

While we were at the show, we also attended a fascinating debate on ‘Policy and Regulatory Changes Around the World.’ The session was well attended and featured a diverse panel of experts. They discussed the risks of over-regulation, particularly the potential for excessive rules to push well-run licensed businesses out of the market and give rise to black-market operators.

Beyond the panels and exhibits, one of the most valuable aspects of the ICE Show is the opportunity to network with others in the industry. We had productive meetings with companies such as SiS, the Racing Post, Racing 1, and SGB. Additionally, we spoke with representatives from the Gambling Regulator of Curacao and promoters of regulated gambling in Malta and Las Vegas. These conversations provided valuable insights into the global regulatory landscape and the future of the gambling sector.

On a lighter note, I had the chance to try my hand at roulette with some complimentary chips. It’s surprisingly difficult to lose when there’s no real money on the line! Through Richard’s extensive contacts, we also met a number if prominent figures in the industry who shared their perspectives on new product innovations and evolving regulatory changes.

All in all, our two-day visit to ICE Barcelona was incredibly valuable. I now have a much clearer understanding of what the event has to offer and reinforced the importance of continued collaboration between industry stakeholders, regulators, and consumer protection groups.

I’m looking forward to seeing how ICE evolves in future years and what more it can offer to the gambling sector.

Andrew Fraser, Chairman