In a dynamic move that will expand its influence, Clarion Gaming Digital has officially acquired Global Gaming Business (GGB), the leading media house in the gaming sector. The acquisition will considerably enhance Clarion’s footprint in the gaming industry, particularly in North America, signaling the beginning of a new era for iGamingBusiness and Clarion’s suite of digital services.
The acquisition includes prized assets such as GGB magazine, along with its annual special issues: Casino Style, Tribal Government Gaming, and the Progressive Products Preview (P3). Additionally, the purchase bolsters Clarion’s online presence through GGB’s robust online assets, catering to an existing base of over 26,000 subscribers with GGB News.
In a market that is rapidly evolving, especially with changes in state regulations and the introduction of new land-based and online gaming developments across the US and Canada, the timing couldn’t be more opportune. The deal promises to broaden Clarion’s scope to deliver comprehensive news, analysis and data across the continent. This acquisition is emblematic of Clarion Gaming Digital’s ambition – it forms part of a wider multimillion-pound investment poised to strengthen the company’s data and audience development initiatives.
Clarion Gaming operates as an integral division of Clarion Events, a global powerhouse noted for orchestrating premier digital and in-person gatherings. Clarion Gaming is renowned for hosting preeminent annual business-to-business events, including iGB L!VE, iGB Affiliate, and ICE – each attracting in excess of 60,000 professionals from over 150 countries in the gaming industry.
Following the announcement, Alex Pratt, Managing Director of Clarion Gaming, expressed his enthusiasm for the deal: “This is a major milestone for our digital business as we unlock the benefits of our investment. We are acquiring a business with deep industry heritage and with it the opportunity to build on their solid foundations in the US.”
Equally eager about the potential of this new partnership, Robin Harrison, Global Content Director, B2B, at Clarion Gaming Digital, commented on the importance of the acquisition during such a transformational period for the gaming industry in North America. He said, “We are delighted to seal this deal, which brings in new industry expertise to the team, expands our reach, and consolidates our presence in a crucial region. We will build an offering that acts as the final word on key industry developments, and GGB’s authority and relationships takes us a step closer to that goal.”
Robin affirms that the integration will not only enhance the group’s existing services but will also position Clarion Gaming Digital at the forefront as the definitive source of industry news and insight.
Roger Gros, publisher of GGB and CEO of its parent company Casino Connection International LLC, also acknowledged the strategic alignment between the two entities: “We have had lengthy discussions with Clarion Gaming Digital in recent years and believe Clarion shares our passion and vision for serving our readership in a way that will maintain the quality of the publications for decades to come. As the gaming industry continues to expand, our relationship with Clarion will ensure that our pivotal role in the industry remains strong.”
Looking forward, Clarion Gaming Digital is set to fast-track its expansion across North America by tapping into unique partnerships made possible via the Clarion Events portfolio. Notable among upcoming initiatives is the DigitalPlay Summit planned to be held alongside the Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention in April 2024.
With the ink now dry on this deal, Clarion Gaming Digital is poised to consolidate its already formidable presence. For industry professionals and stakeholders, this development promises an upgraded suite of services and insights, signaling a game-changing evolution for gaming media and events.
