The gambling industry is mourning the loss of Paul Gauselmann, the founder of Merkur Group, who died on Friday at the age of 91. Gauselmann, who began his journey in the gaming sector by opening his first arcade in Germany back in 1974, was a pivotal figure in the industry. Under his leadership, Merkur Group grew to employ more than 15,000 individuals and boasted an impressive turnover of around €2.1 billion ($2.45 billion).
Even after he stepped down as chairman in 2024, entrusting the company to his son Michael, Gauselmann remained actively involved in daily operations at the Merkur office.
In a statement released on Friday, Merkur Group remembered Gauselmann as a “courageous fighter with grand visions.” The organization expressed its sorrow, stating, “For everyone who knew Paul Gauselmann, the loss of him is still too much to take in. Yet, as he would have wanted, our gaze is fixed on the Merkur sun. The Merkur Group, together with its staff members, pays its respects to an extraordinary individual, with humility and deep gratitude.”
The industry is paying tribute to Gauselmann, hailed as a pioneer. Stuart Hunter, Managing Director of WorldGaming, reflected on Gauselmann's impact, noting that he was deeply saddened by the news. “The WorldGaming team was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Gauselmann, founder of the Merkur Group and an inspirational personality who made a profound contribution to the development of the international industry,” he said. Hunter also acknowledged Gauselmann's ongoing support for the ICE event, which will relocate from London to Barcelona in 2025, indicating Gauselmann's far-reaching influence.
IGT, another significant player in the gaming sector, recognized Gauselmann's immense contributions in a LinkedIn post, stating, “Paul’s pioneering spirit, entrepreneurial vision, and dedication to the evolution of gaming have left an enduring mark on our industry and all those who had the opportunity to work alongside him.”
A memorial has been established at the statue of Paul Gauselmann located in the courtyard of Benkhausen Castle, which functions as the training hub for Merkur Group.
Lars Felderhoff, Chairman of Merkur Group, also shared his heartfelt tribute, stating, “I am deeply grateful for the many personal encounters, shared successes, inspiring conversations, and valuable experiences I was fortunate enough to share with Paul Gauselmann. I will carry them with me, just as I will always remember the remarkable person behind this extraordinary legacy.
