Hippodrome Casino

United Kingdom-based casino operators are now officially members of the European Casino Association after the group lauded the return following the country’s leave in 2020. 

Announced during last week’s ECA General Assembly, held by the members on the occasion of the Casino Industry Forum at Casino Baden in Austria, the reintroduction of eight casino operators from the UK was approved.

These include: Aspers Group, Crown Aspinalls, Genting Casinos UK, the Hippodrome Casino, Les Ambassadeurs, Mayfair Casino, Rank Group and Metropolitan Gaming.

“It was a great disappointment when the UK left the ECA in 2020, and from the outset we have been working to bring them back,” noted Per Jaldung, Chairman of the ECA.

“The UK has a thriving land-based gaming industry, and we are extremely proud that our joint efforts have led to the successful re-entry of the UK as a full member of the ECA. 

“UK casino operators have a lot to offer to the network of continental European operators, and we are thrilled to extend our membership to include the UK.”

Moreover, as part of their introduction, the eight UK-based operators have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the ECA for the UK to become a full association member. 

Adding his thoughts on the matter, Simon Thomas, Chief Executive of the Hippodrome Casino, and also worked with the ECA to formalise the inductions jointly with the ECA Board, stated: “I am delighted to be back in the fold of the European Casino Association. As the representative for the eight UK casino operators within the ECA, we are stronger together through shared experiences. 

“As a full member, we will be capitalising on the knowledge base of the European land-based sector and the incredible value it creates for its members. I’m delighted to be back as a member of the ECA and look forward to the next General Assembly at ICE London on February 7.”