The WorldGaming team mourns the loss of Paul Gauselmann, the visionary founder of the Merkur Group, who made significant contributions to the global gaming industry. His unwavering support for the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) played a vital role in facilitating its upcoming move from London to Barcelona in 2025.
Paul exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit, demonstrating creativity, drive, vision, and empathy throughout his career. He transformed a small venture into a vast international organization that now employs over 15,000 individuals and generates more than €2 billion in revenue.
Known for his commitment to positive change, Paul was also deeply invested in various charitable endeavors spanning social welfare, culture, sports, and health. His dedication to giving back earned him honorary citizenship from the cities of Espelkamp and Lübbecke in 2004, and the Federal Cross of Merit, First Class, from Germany's president in 2003.
For over 38 years, Paul was a key figure in shaping the industry, serving for 28 of those years as chairman of the board of the Association of the German Vending Machine Industry (Verband der Deutschen Automatenindustrie e.V.), significantly contributing to the sector's growth.
As a monumental figure in the global gaming industry, Paul's influence was felt at every ICE event. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who are part of the Merkur Group.
