ECA vice chair Siltanen: ICE can help address diversity issues in gaming

Siltanen – who is also general manager of Casino Helsinki and Tampere – is a major thought leader for the European land-based casino sector, which will return to the show in 2023 for the first time since 2020.

She said that the consumer protection on display at the show in particular was a feature that she was excited about.

“As a global industry we are stronger when we are together sharing challenges, solutions, ideas, inspiration, energy and the infectious ‘can do’ spirit that underpins our industry,” she said. “I also believe this mindset goes beyond product. We are also ‘stronger together’ when we are addressing diversity in all of its forms, safer gambling and protection of the vulnerable.

“In this respect the Consumer Protection Zone at ICE represents a stand-out feature on the show floor. Safer gambling has moved centre stage at ICE and the industry is much stronger when we collectively address consumer protection.”

Stuart Hunter, managing director of Clarion Gaming, noted that Siltanen’s view that ICE was a perfect opportunity to address wider issues in gaming was widely held across the industry.

“In the research that we undertake with stakeholders on a regular basis the primary reason quoted for attending ICE is the calibre of the exhibitors and the access their presence provides to the very latest innovations, and technology solutions,” he said.

“However it’s clear that when so many of the industry’s influencers and strategic bodies come together in one place it’s also possible to address broader issues. The award-winning ICE Consumer Protection Zone has been and will continue to be the focus for discussions regarding the industry’s safer gambling undertakings and there will also be events and debates regarding diversity and inclusion in the gambling industry.”

ICE London 2023 will take place from 7-9 February at the ExCeL London.