Carlos Carrión: "Leading gaming equipment manufacturers recognized SlotCycle as an ideal distribution channel for LatAm"

Carlos Carrión is an experienced professional in the gaming industry, with solid experience not only in the U.S. and Mexican markets but also with a global business vision.

After an extensive career at Aristocrat Gaming, where he served as Director of Marketing, among other positions, the executive has taken on a new challenge at Slotcycle, as Vice President of International Sales and Business Development.

Yogonet took advantage of Carrión's presence at G2E 2024 in Las Vegas to learn more about SlotCycle's proposal, its commitment to operators and manufacturers in the region, and the expectations regarding the new gaming regulation in Mexico under the new government of Claudia Sheinbaum.

What can you tell us about the services and proposals offered by SlotCycle?

SlotCycle is transforming the gaming industry by modernizing the way gaming equipment is managed throughout its lifecycle. We are adding transparency, trust, and security to the process of buying and selling casino machines and related equipment. As a one-stop platform, we connect buyers and sellers of casino machines, parts, and other gaming equipment through a streamlined, easy-to-use online marketplace.

Additionally to our digital platform, we operate a 35,000-square-foot facility, which offers a full suite of services to support lifecycle management. These services include repair, storage, compliance, training, and other industry-specific solutions. Our goal is to provide a fresh and innovative approach to gaming equipment management, ensuring that both buyers and sellers benefit from a seamless and efficient experience.

How can these services benefit the Latin American casino market in particular?

SlotCycle offers substantial benefits to the Latin American casino market by providing refurbished gaming equipment, including region-specific games, at competitive prices without compromising performance. This combination of advanced technology, cost-effectiveness, and reliable, high-quality games creates an attractive value proposition for local casinos. It enables them to improve their operations, diversify their game offerings, and achieve better returns on investment.

In addition, leading gaming equipment manufacturers have recognized SlotCycle as an ideal distribution channel for Latin America, and are confident that our platform will deliver good results for both them and local casino operators. This collaboration creates a win-win scenario: casinos gain access to cutting-edge technology at affordable prices, while manufacturers expand their reach in a fast-growing market.

What can you tell us about your role as head of the sales and commercial area of this company? What do you consider to be the main challenges?

I am delighted to lead SlotCycle's sales and commercial department, especially considering my 20+ years of experience in the Latin American market. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth of the region by delivering innovative solutions and high-quality products tailored to local needs.

Understanding the market is essential for success, and this requires a direct commitment to casino operators and distributors throughout Latin America. To do business effectively, we must understand the market conditions, regulatory framework and cultural particularities of the region. These factors can only be fully understood through immersion in the local market, something I deeply enjoy and am passionate about.

Rather than seeing challenges, I view market conditions as opportunities to develop creative solutions for a dynamic and rapidly evolving region. Growing up in Latin America has shaped my mindset to constantly look for opportunities and approach each day with a sense of adventure and possibility.

The gaming industry has evolved considerably since you joined. What role do you see SlotCycle playing in this evolution? What contributions can you provide to further drive the modernization of the sector?

When SlotCycle was founded, our vision was to simplify and modernize the process of buying and selling casino games and equipment through a digital marketplace. Over the years, we have significantly advanced the gaming industry by providing a more efficient, transparent, and reliable way to manage gaming assets.

SlotCycle plays a crucial role in the evolution of the industry by transforming the way business is conducted throughout the entire casino machine lifecycle. As a comprehensive platform, we connect buyers and sellers of casino machines, parts, and other gaming equipment through an intuitive and easy-to-use online marketplace. Our platform ensures transparency, trust, and access to a wide range of products, tailored to the diverse needs of the market while streamlining the buying and selling process.

In doing so, SlotCycle is helping to modernize the gaming industry by improving access to high-quality equipment, reducing transaction friction, and supporting a more dynamic global market.

What are your thoughts on the current state of gaming in Mexico, and does SlotCycle plan to enter this market?

Mexico's current gaming regulatory framework requires modernization, particularly at the constitutional level. Under Claudia Sheinbaum's administration, there is a significant opportunity to enact a new federal law on Gaming and Sweepstakes during her six-year term. This law could establish an autonomous regulatory body to oversee gaming, ensuring long-term stability and adaptability to rapid technological changes in the industry.

A well-crafted regulatory framework must involve all stakeholders: regulators, operators, and suppliers. It should lay the foundation for a transparent and organized industry that promotes responsible gaming, minimizes corruption, and establishes clear and standardized rules for the import of gaming equipment. Defining such rules will help ensure that all stakeholders can operate with confidence, reducing uncertainty and fostering an open business environment.

SlotCycle sees significant potential in the Mexican market. We look forward to collaborating with local casinos and distributors to explore new business opportunities. We look forward to partnering with operators in Mexico to provide high-quality refurbished gaming equipment, including region-specific games, at competitive prices, while ensuring world-class performance and reliability.

What has the public feedback been like regarding SlotCycle's recent participation in industry events?

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and we have had the opportunity to showcase SlotCycle's unique value proposition to a broad audience. We actively seek feedback from event attendees and engage with our community to continually refine and improve our offerings. Participation in industry events remains a priority for us as it allows us to strengthen relationships and stay connected with key stakeholders across the industry.

Recently, I had the privilege of discussing our vision and plans with the head of a major regulatory body in a Latin American country, and his response was very encouraging. This positive interaction further validates our approach and motivates us to continue driving innovation within the industry.