The European Casino Association (ECA) has established the ECA Strategic Supplier Partnership to foster relationships between the association and select land-based partners.
The inaugural supplier partners of the ECA are Aristocrat Leisure, International Game Technology, Light & Wonder, and Novomatic.
The ECA initiative aims to advance responsible practices within the licensed gambling sector while allowing for further industry collaboration. Members will also look to address crucial issues and promote fair regulatory frameworks.
The partnership will explore equipment standardisation, enhanced security measures and strategies to combat illegal gambling.
“We are pleased to welcome Aristocrat Gaming, IGT, Light & Wonder and Novomatic as the founding members of the ECA’s Strategic Supplier Partnership,” said ECA chairman Erwin van Lambaart.
“This collaboration allows us to share diverse perspectives and work towards solutions that benefit the entire gaming community while respecting the distinct roles of operators and suppliers.”
Jon Lancaster, VP of sales for the EMEA region at Light & Wonder, commented: “Light and Wonder are honoured to be collaborating with the ECA on this strategic partnership.
“We have long considered that casino operators, trade bodies and suppliers need to work closely together on issues that impact the future of our industry and this partnership represents a great opportunity to actively address those challenges together.”
Stefan Krenn, Novomatic executive board member, added: “As Europe´s largest gaming technology group, Novomatic is pleased to join other major suppliers in laying the foundation for the ECA Strategic Supplier Partnership.
“In this exclusive collaboration, we look forward to shaping the future of European gaming in a responsible and sustainable way, fostering collaboration across the industry and upholding the highest standards of compliance and player protection.
“We are excited to partner with the ECA and firmly believe that together we can promote the long-term success of the industry.”
Marcel Heutmekers, VP of sales and operations EMEA for Aristocrat Gaming, commented: “Aristocrat Gaming is pleased to be a part of the newly formed ECA partnership. Our aim is to work alongside the ECA and other suppliers to expand our collective influence in the region when it comes to regulatory reform and the evolution of gaming in EMEA.”
David Flinn, IGT senior vice president EMEA, Canada and Latin American gaming sales, added: “IGT is pleased to join the ECA’s Strategic Partnership Alliance and collaborate with other global gaming suppliers to help drive growth opportunities for our customers and to shape a positive framework for the future of casino gaming across Europe.”