In informing the ICE organiser, Clarion Events, Merkur Gaming cited the main reason being it did not feel its substantial investment in ICE would show a positive return. 

Merkur Gaming commented: “We are completely unable to accept the new dates for ICE 2022. With the show running right up to the start of the Easter holiday period, the fact that the Covid pandemic – in the form of the Omicron variant that is currently rampant throughout the United Kingdom – is still a major health risk issue and the still-to-be-seen additional logistical difficulties that stem from the UK’s Brexit withdrawal.

"All of these factors combine to reach the inescapable conclusion that the visitor numbers (both those UK-based and those wishing to travel from overseas) will be severely impacted in a negative way, the show will be unable to present itself as the world-leading event of recent years, and the practical difficulties for international exhibitors will also be greatly increased."

The wellbeing of the Merkur Gaming team and related business partners, customers, as well as those attending the show, was also given as a strong reason for this decision. 

Merkur Gaming continues to regard Clarion Events and ICE itself as a large contributor to its success within recent years. And it hopes "to be able to re-engage with them at the earliest possible opportunity but that has to be at the right time, in the right place, and in the right conditions.”

In conclusion, the spokesperson commented: “We look forward to that positive collaboration; we regret having to take the decision that we are now announcing but, under the present circumstances, we are convinced we have chosen the correct path as an example to and for the benefit of the entire international gaming industry.”