Business is steady and the outlook is optimistic for Australia and New Zealand’s gaming and hospitality industry, according to many exhibitors at this year’s Australasian Gaming Expo.

„Certainly, we’re receiving feedback from exhibitors that their products are generating strong interest and sales orders during the show,“ said Ross Ferrar, Chief Executive of the Gaming Technologies Association (GTA), who organise the annual trade show and conference at Sydney’s Darling Harbour.

„The timing of the show has been great for a number of suppliers who maximised the trade event as an opportunity to launch their products to gaming venues before the busy Christmas period.“

Over 200 exhibitors have been showcasing the latest gaming technology and hospitality products and services, including GTA‘s members, who have been displaying poker machines, gaming systems and services over the three day industry only trade event.

Following is a snapshot of GTA members‘ hottest products featured at the show:

Ainsworth Game Technology

Ainsworth’s new stand alone „Double Shots“ with progressive jackpots made an impact on the show floor. Recently approved in New South Wales and Queensland, the product generated much interest from clubs, casinos and hotels – and will be released internationally over the next few months.

Aristocrat Technologies

Aristocrat’s new environmentally friendly green machine; the Viridian cabinet appeared for the first time at a major trade show. Approved in NSW, ACT and all GLI jurisdictions including Nevada and Europe, the product attracted strong interest in terms of its functionality, appearance, ease of serviceability and innovative Gen7 technology.

Aruze Gaming

Aruze’s electronic tournament consoles feature gaming machines for the increasingly popular tournament play. The latest game „Lucky Frankie“ was displayed in a 10 machine configuration, for play every three minutes. The game is currently operating at Star City casino and a number of Queensland casinos.

Global Gaming Industries

Global eye analytical software offers real time, online reporting which enables operators to dial in remotely. This head office management software is in strong demand with New South Wales hotel groups.

IGT (Australia)

IGT released their new one dollar link, called Fort Knox, which according to IGT, is the first symbol driven dollar link that’s been approved in New South Wales. IGT especially piqued the interest of visitors from New Zealand, Singapore and Macau.

Konami Australia

Konami’s Advantage 5-reel stepper machine was recently approved in New South Wales and Queensland – a stand alone progressive available in 1c, 5c and 10c denominations. Konami featured the machines with two new games – Sensational 7’s and Queen of Thebes.

Stargames Corporation

Building on the strength of Pink Panther, Stargames featured its latest symbol driven progressive bank of machines, „Grand Central“, due for release in early 2009. In addition, the company’s newly launched table games generated strong interest from casinos throughout the Asia Pacific region.

GTA hosts and operates the annual Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) and the New Zealand Gaming Expo. Further information about the AGE is available at www.austgamingexpo.com.