Electrocoin is looking to make 2026 another year of international growth, with a heavy investment in its range of games and a focus on growth in new markets. Next week’s EAG will provide a key opportunity for the supplier to showcase the very latest brands, mechanics and technology to UK operators, said Director and Founder John Stergides Snr, as well as offering a springboard into the new year.
Coinslot: This year is another crucial EAG which will clearly have innovation at its core and a focus on growth. What are you hoping to get from January’s expanded London show?
John Stergides: This year’s EAG is particularly crucial as it takes place very early in the year and is followed closely by ICE in Barcelona.
Timing and weather will, of course, play a part, but if conditions are reasonable, we are hopeful it will be stronger than last year. We have invested heavily in new games aimed specifically at the seaside and FEC sectors.
Our main hope is that operators from these premises attend EAG, support the UK show, and take the opportunity to see what’s new, rather than heading abroad on holiday at this time of year.
Coinslot: In terms of business development and new markets, what kind of conversations are you looking to have at EAG for expanding and evolving your portfolio?
John Stergides: We are always looking to expand into new markets and continue to participate in major overseas exhibitions such as ICE and IAAPA, as well as shows in Ireland, Spain, and Italy.
This international presence supports our long-standing ethos: Electrocoin – Expanding the World of Play.
Coinslot: Investment and focus on growth. What must the government and Gambling Commission deliver that will drive growth in the industry and incentivise you to invest in new tech and new markets?
John Stergides: The government and the Gambling Commission need to actively support the industry.
One of the most important steps would be reinstating a triennial or similar mechanism to allow increases in prizes and greater flexibility.
This would once again enable UK manufacturers and inventors to design and build games that are fun, community-focused, and social in nature, with low stakes and low prizes. Skill-based games such as racing and sports titles, where players participate together and receive rewards, are essential to creating engaging environments.
DCMS and ministers have spoken about supporting seaside arcades, FECs, pubs, bowling centres, and similar venues by allowing new ideas based around AWP machines. This support is vital if we are to grow UK manufacturing again and create employment.
At one point, prior to the current Gambling Act, there were 62 UK manufacturing companies producing games for both domestic and overseas markets. Today, that number has fallen to just a handful.
QUICKFIRE ROUND: JOHN STERGIDES
What are your must-see products on show at EAG?
Football Champ, DDR Universal World, Colorama Plus, Big Wheel, Magic 7 Key, Bar-X 7even £100 Jackpot and the full range of products on the Electrocoin stand.
Has the lack of clarity in the Gambling Review impacted your investment plans?
Yes. There has been nothing introduced that helps the industry create new jobs, drive growth, or encourage innovation.
What regulatory change will drive the business forward?
Giving the industry the flexibility to create low-stake, low-prize games that focus on entertainment, social interaction, and community participation. Skill-based games such as car racing or horse racing, where players play together and receive rewards, would provide genuine value and enjoyment for players.
