Hippodrome Casino Executive Chairman picks three key trends set to stand out at ICE Barcelona

Simon Thomas, Executive Chairman of London’s Hippodrome Casino, has identified three "key trends" in the gaming industry that he believes will stand out at the inaugural edition of ICE Barcelona.

According to Thomas, Sustainability, AI, and the convergence of online and land-based gaming are set to play a major role at the upcoming edition of the event, the first edition of ICE to take place outside the UK.

Simon Thomas said: “From energy-efficient gaming machines to green certifications for venues, the industry is prioritizing environmental responsibility. This shift isn’t just about corporate responsibility; it’s a response to the growing demand from players and stakeholders for all-round greener operations.”

The development of cutting-edge technology will, he believes, be applied in a number of different ways, many of which attendees will be able to explore at ICE 2025. The event is set to be held from January 20 to 22 at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via.

“As the trend continues to use technology such as AI to create safer gaming environments, while also developing more engaging gaming solutions for customers, I expect ICE to reflect this” he stated. “This will include applications that refine customer personalization, optimize staff placement, and enhance/encourage responsible gaming.”

On a macro level, Thomas believes there will be "a more pronounced convergence" of online and land-based gaming as operators look to offer seamless transitions between physical and digital gaming, in the process appealing to a broader demographic.

Thomas also praised Clarion Gaming's decision to relocate its flagship event from London to Barcelona: “With the move to Barcelona, I’m particularly excited about the city’s vibrant culture and its potential to foster fresh perspectives in networking and innovation.

"Barcelona’s global appeal aligns perfectly with ICE’s international reach, providing a backdrop that promises inspiration for all attendees. This is a new chapter for ICE in one of the most iconic locations in the world. Bienvenidos a todos!”

The inaugural edition of ICE in Barcelona is set to gather leading brands from every gambling vertical, in addition to trade associations, strategic bodies, regulators, and game creators. Record-breaking numbers are expected, which Clarion Gaming says underlines the show's reputation for being the ‘Davos of Gambling’.