Interview with Rick Meitzler, CEO of Novomatic Americas
G2E 2022 Las Vegas Show
- Importance of G2E
- Two key shows: London Show and G2E
- G2E focuses on North American market, London for European market
- Different gaming styles between US and Europe
- Showcase portfolio specific to North America
- Strong presence and large investment in G2E
Success of G2E 2022
- Rick's industry experience of 45 years
- Pre-COVID momentum being regained
- High booth traffic resembling pre-COVID times
- Significant attendance and engagement
Key Markets and Expansion
- Two Business Segments
- European street market dominance
- US BGT/VLT segment (e.g., Illinois)
- 43,000 street machines in Illinois over 10 years
- Expansion into Georgia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania
- Caribbean Markets
- Street market style gaming in Caribbean and Puerto Rico
- Casino Market
- Competitive market with numerous vendors
- Focus on innovative products to compete
- Notable products: Money Party, Thunder Cash
Innovations in Slots and Electronic Table Games
- Electronic Table Games
- Simultaneous betting on multiple games (craps, baccarat, blackjack)
- More live games and iGaming influences
- System Innovations
- Biometric systems (e.g., fingerprint-based payment and play)
- Facial recognition for age verification and player tracking
- Future Integration
- Influence of iGaming on land-based games
- Development of games that can seamlessly transition between platforms
- Increased use of phones in gaming (e.g., for sports betting)
iGaming and Hybridization
- Data Utilization
- Extensive data collection from iGaming for land-based game development
- Bricks to Clicks Strategy
- Transition from physical sports betting to mobile platforms
- Example: Plurious system allowing play continuity between phone and machines
Future Goals for Novomatic USA
- Positioning and Growth
- Aim to move up from 6th-7th position in US manufacturing
- Target to break into the top 4 within 2-3 years
- Strong company leadership and vision
- Exciting times with expectations for success and expansion
Interview conducted with Rick Meitzler, CEO of Novomatic America.