The gambling industry is mourning the loss of Paul Gauselmann, the founder of the Merkur Group, who passed away on Friday at the age of 91.
Born in Germany in 1934, Gauselmann opened his first gaming arcade in 1974, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. By the time of his death, the Merkur Group had grown significantly, employing over 15,000 individuals.
Gauselmann dedicated 67 years to leading Merkur, which now reports a total turnover of around €2.1 billion ($2.45 billion). Even after he stepped down from his role as chairman in 2024, ceding leadership to his son Michael, he remained actively involved, regularly visiting the office to oversee operations.
In a heartfelt tribute on Friday, Merkur Group praised Gauselmann as a “courageous fighter with grand visions.” Their statement reflected the profound sense of loss felt by those close to him: “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.”
Stuart Hunter, Managing Director of WorldGaming, acknowledged Gauselmann's significant contributions to the international gambling scene. He expressed sadness over Gauselmann's passing and recognized his pivotal role in the industry's development. Hunter noted, “His long-term support of ICE also helped smooth its 2025 relocation from London to Barcelona. Paul epitomised the qualities of entrepreneurship, drive, creativity, vision and empathy that underpin this industry.”
IGT took to LinkedIn to remark on Gauselmann's influential role, stating his impact on the global gaming industry was "immense." They wrote, “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 Paul Gauselmann statue located in the courtyard of Benkhausen Castle, the in-house training center for Merkur Group.
Lars Felderhoff, Chairman of Merkur Group, also shared personal reflections over the weekend, expressing gratitude for the time spent with Gauselmann. He stated, “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.
