London (October 17) – Newly released figures show that the 10th annual EiG (Milan, 20-22nd September) once again proved its importance as an integral part of the iGaming sector by attracting 1744 attendees, the highest level of visitor numbers in the decade it has been running and a 30 percent year-on-year increase. The show’s organisers reported that over 40 percent of exhibitors have already re-booked for 2012, illustrating the continued success of the event.

Discussing the success of the show and the opportunities presented at the Milan exhibition, Simon Burridge, CEO, Virgin Games, said: „My impression of the show is very good. Everyone we wanted to see has been here, it’s nice and compact and it’s been great. I also think EiG’s move to Milan has been a success. It’s a fabulous city, and I think it’s good to ring the changes from time to time, to stop everything getting too formulaic.“

Peter Naessens, Head of the Regulatory Advice Unit, Belgian Gaming Commission, said: „EiG has made a very good impression on me. It represents a very good cross section of the private industry and it’s very interesting to hear from both operators and regulators, and to see what is going on in the business.“

Norbert Teufelberger, co-CEO Bwin.party Digital Entertainment, said: „EiG is at a venue that my peers like a lot. It’s a great place to get everyone in the industry together, meet peers, and learn a little bit from the others, which is always a goal when coming to an event like this. EiG is just a very good opportunity to catch up with what’s going on in the industry.“
Event highlights also included the Remote Gaming Association’s exclusive release of their briefing document ‚Online Gambling: Key objectives for a successful regulatory and tax framework‘, and the very popular Start-Up LaunchPad, which was won by TopHatApps, followed closely by Tajitsu Industries.

Speaking about the success of Start-Up LaunchPad, David Wainwright, CEO, TopHatApps, said: „I am absolutely delighted to have won the prestigious EiG LaunchPad – a true honour. We secured a large distribution deal as a result and are now in active talks with investors. EIG was a great show and the perfect launch pad for the company.“

Ewa Bakun, Event Director at Clarion Gaming, confirmed: „2011 has been the biggest year ever for EiG, both in terms of exhibitor and delegate figures. Everyone here at Clarion has been extremely pleased with how the event went and the feedback we’ve all been receiving. Once again, EiG has proven that it has a successful format that attracts a decision-making audience who attend to do serious business, network and to learn. Our entire team is all very much looking forward to next year’s show.

“In the meantime, if people missed any of the key speakers or would like to revisit one of the many sessions, they can find them all at EiG Replay, our new online playback service,” she added.