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Nick Harding predicts ‘phenomenal’ edition of EAG Expo
Nick Harding, Chairman of EAG Expo, believes that attending the London Show (13th – 15th January, ExCeL London) has become a non-negotiable unmissable date in the diary for every serious player working in the industry.
Looking ahead to what he describes as a “phenomenal opportunity for the industry to reset” going into 2026, Harding said a year of increased financial pressure has forced operators to seek innovative ways to evolve their offer while continuing to support the sector’s traditional strengths.
“It’s vital to build future resilience and to think in terms of a five-year plan that all stakeholders can buy into” he confirmed. “Now more than ever, we need to be entertainers. The people at the sharp end of the business are key, and a professional approach to everything including compliance and player protection, is essential for businesses to stand out in what is an ultra-competitive market.”
Highlighting the value delivered by EAG Expo, Harding explained that its Under One Roof positioning goes far beyond a marketing message.
“It’s a statement about consolidation, collaboration and convenience” he stated. “Visitors benefit from three interlinked sectors in a single venue, the core amusements exhibition, the SIE Expo showcasing competitive socialising, and the London Casino & Gaming Show. It’s a time-efficient, joined-up business opportunity that sets the tone for the year ahead.”
He added that EAG’s enduring appeal is driven by a combination of people and product. “Visitors see EAG as a non-negotiable diary date for two reasons: the people they will meet at EAG and the product they will be able to test and play. Alongside seeing the latest innovations from leading games creators, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share insight on what’s performing best, and strengthen relationships. That social and professional exchange is a core part of the EAG experience.”
Commenting on the show’s continued growth, Harding noted that since 2022 attendance has risen by 69 percent, with the 2025 edition welcoming 4,306 unique visitors representing 1,973 businesses. “These numbers underline EAG’s status as the most important business show of the year, and we’re confident of delivering further growth.”
In terms of delivering business-centric content, the EAG seminar programme will feature a record 23 educational streams and 50 speakers drawn from inside and outside the industry.
He confirmed: “The seminars add another dimension to the EAG experience, complementing the thousands of products available to see and sample on the show floor. Each session has been curated to deliver tangible take-outs, informed by experts such as Steve Wools, Simon Thomas, Mike Kill, Jade Craig, Matt Zarb-Cousin, Kieran O’Keefe and David Lucas.”
Looking forward to connecting with the industry at EAG Harding concluded: “EAG is where the industry kicks off its year and where manufacturers unveil the products that will shape the next 12-months. If your business touches amusements, competitive socialising or gaming in the UK or Europe, EAG is nothing short of a must-attend.”