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The emergence of new gaming venues are accounting for 30 percent of Blueprint machine orders
Renewed market confidence, a strong product offering and the opening of new gaming ventures on the UK high street are all combining to help drive the sales of Blueprint digital machines, according to feedback from the brand, which is part of MERKUR UK.
Reflecting on the market dynamics David Purvis, Managing Director of Blueprint Operations, stated: “We went into the ACOS show on the back of a very successful quarter in which sales were 50 percent up on the same stage 12-months ago” he confirmed. ”We subsequently put a lot of care and resource into our presence at ACOS which included holding a virtual exhibition the week prior for those members of the industry who were unable or not comfortable with travelling to London and the investment that we made has certainly paid dividends.
“In the month following ACOS we have continued to take orders across the range. Significantly, customers know that despite the well documented supply chain issues and due to a combination of meticulous planning and the fact that Blueprint machines carry the Made In Germany badge we are not subject to the long transit times incurred when production is in the Far East. As it stands currently we are able to quote the normal delivery times which means that operators are able to invest in their existing premises and perhaps most significantly that new venues can open with a full complement of top earning Blueprint product and start to pay back on the investment made.”
He added: “Analysing the orders processed during and followingmOctober’s exhibition , some 30 percent of the total volume has come from operators launching new venues. Clearly the UK high street is undergoing a period of significant change and low stake, low prize gambling entertainment venues are bringing much needed life and energy to UK high streets.”
Blueprint’s new product offering comprises three cabinets which aim to extend the digital entertainment experience from the home environment into retail venues. The Ultramax Cat C features a seamless edge-to-edge gaming experience courtesy of the two 31.5” screens. The B3 Wave+ and Auroramax+ also feature large screens – the Wave+ has a 43” curved portrait screen with the Auroramax+ boasting two 32” HD screens. Both have a new 15.6” video play deck to deliver a more interactive experience and feature the QXI6000 Quad core PC for enhanced graphical performance and smooth gameplay. David Purvis concluded: “Looking ahead I think there’s a buoyancy and quiet confidence in the market. The high proportion of vacant premises sitting empty on the high street has led to a restructuring of shop rents and the emergence of a more leisure oriented retail experience all of which augurs well for the future.”
BiS SiGMA Americas
OKTO Sets New Standards in Digital Payments at BIS SIGMA Americas

OKTO is set to showcase its cutting-edge payment solutions at BIS SIGMA Americas in São Paulo. As a leading payment servise provider, OKTO will stand out with its advanced paytech and instant pay-ins and payouts, inviting visitors to explore its unified payment platform at the OKTO Networking Lounge – F140.
The OKTO booth will feature interactive demonstrations of the company’s innovative payment solutions, designed to redefine convenience and elevate user experience. OKTO’s comprehensive suite of services ensures instant deposits and withdrawals, setting a new standard for flexibility, security, and efficiency in digital payments.
Visitor will discover how OKTO has simplified integration for operators through a unified platform and one API that supports various local payment methods, enabling swift and efficient transactions across Latin America. Additionally, OKTO will showcase its Smart Payment Routing System, optimizing transaction flows and acceptance rates for enhanced efficiency.
Building on the successful launched of OKTO MAIS, Pay and Play 2.0, Smart Pix, and Biometric Pix at SBC Summit Rio last month, OKTO is bringing these innovations and more to SIGMA Americas. The company will showcase advanced banking solutions specifically designed for the Brazilian market, ensuring seamless fund transfers, specialized financial advisory, and full compliance with local regulations.
Leveraging open banking, OKTO’s PIX suíte will demonstrate how the company enhances user onbaording, boosts acceptance rates and improves transaction efficiency, all tailored to meet Brazil’s unique needs.
Leonardo Chaves, Regional General Manager LatAm at OKTO, said: “We are excited to showcase our innovative solutions at BIS SIGMA 2025, redefining the digital payments ecosystem. Our commitment is to deliver cutting-edge technology and a seamless, secure, and efficient payment experience for both merchants and users. The Brazilian and LatAm market demands flexible solutions tailored to its unique characteristics, and OKTO is ready to meet this need with excellence. We invite everyone to visit our booth and experience the future of payments firsthand.”
The post OKTO Sets New Standards in Digital Payments at BIS SIGMA Americas appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Chris Kelley
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon Hosts Informational Sessions and Strengthens Community Commitment with Donation to The Open Door Network
As Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon moves closer to its highly anticipated grand opening, the company is engaging with the Kern County community through exclusive informational sessions at Bakersfield College’s Renegade Event Room located at 1801 Panorama Drive. The first session, held on April 4, provided local leaders and invited guests with insights into upcoming job and vendor opportunities in the region. The second session took place on April 5 from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM.
Job opportunities for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon will be posted on the recruitment site, www.gotoworkhappy.com, starting in May. Additionally, in Summer 2025, Hard Rock will host a series of job fairs and a table games dealer school to welcome members of the community seeking employment opportunities.
“We’re excited to bring Hard Rock’s world-class hospitality and entertainment to Kern County, and our success starts with the incredible talent we recruit. These sessions are an important step in sharing our vision with the community, highlighting the career and business opportunities that will become available in the coming months. Hard Rock is dedicated to keeping our promises by hiring locally and building a team that embodies our culture of service, passion, and authenticity,” said Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon.
Hard Rock is consistently recognized as a top employer, having been named one of the nation’s Best Large Employers and Best Employers for Diversity and Women. In the coming weeks, the company will announce dates for its official hiring events, where Kern County residents can explore exciting career opportunities in gaming, hospitality, and management.
Further underscoring Hard Rock’s commitment to Kern County, Tejon Indian Tribe Vice Chair June Nachor and Hard Rock Tejon President Chris Kelley joined Hard Rock representatives in presenting a donation to The Open Door Network, an organization supporting individuals and families affected by domestic violence, homelessness, and human trafficking.
“The Open Door Network is deeply grateful for this generous donation, which will directly support individuals and families in Kern County facing domestic violence, homelessness, and human trafficking. Hard Rock and the Tejon Indian Tribe’s commitment to community investment is truly impactful, and this support will help us continue providing critical services to those who need them most. We look forward to building on this partnership and working together to create lasting change,” said Lauren Skidmore, CEO of The Open Door Network.
The post Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon Hosts Informational Sessions and Strengthens Community Commitment with Donation to The Open Door Network appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Charleen Ripley
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.
“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.
The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.
“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.
The post Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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