ICE 2024 Raises over £41,000 for Charities

In a heartening display of industry commitment to responsible gambling, the Consumer Protection Zone (CPZ) at ICE 2024 has raised £41,100 ($51,800), which will go to two charities: the International Centre for Responsible Gambling (ICRG) and Betblocker. This newest contribution brings the total raised by CPZ to more than £225,000 ($283,600) over the last four years.

Two Deserving Organizations Received Recognition

At a donation ceremony held at the CPZ, representatives from ICRG and Betblocker received cheques amounting to £20,500 ($25,850) each. The seven contributing donors were industry-leading companies like Light and Wonder, Flutter, Betsson Group, IGT, Novomatic, Neccton, and Playtech. Their efforts aim to offset some of gambling’s negative societal impact, showcasing their commitment to a safe and sustainable gaming market.

ICRG president Arthur Paikowsky, who also accepted an award as Clarion Gaming’s Charity of the Year at the ceremony, thanked the companies for their contributions, adding that the funds would be invaluable in bolstering the organization’s 27 ongoing gambling-related studies. ICRG hopes that its data will allow for better treatment and prevention of gambling addiction, benefiting consumers and stakeholders.

Today’s donation will help us fund more research with some of the best investigators in this field. When you are a small organization like ours, £20,500 is very meaningful.

Arthur Paikowsky, ICRG President

Betblocker founder and trustee Duncan Garvie shared Paikowsky’s sentiment, expressing surprise and gratitude that his charity was in consideration for the donation. He added that the funds would significantly aid the development of the organization’s upcoming timer feature. Garvie also noted that the increased exposure during ICE was another significant boon, bolstering the charity’s reach.

ICE 2024 Has Set a New Industry Standard

The ICE exhibition bids farewell to London in style as the 2024 edition marks the final gathering in the city before the event relocates to Barcelona in 2025. The event opened on 6 February, hosting 811 exhibitors that filled the entire ExCeL venue. ICE embodies the gaming industry’s commitment to providing more value, innovation, and connections.

The event’s theme, encapsulated in the ICE MORE creative campaign, is a pledge to the entire industry to deliver a unique experience connecting the gaming community. Clarion Gaming’s director of industry insight and engagement, Ewa Bakun, noted that the CPZ was instrumental in promoting the industry’s commitment and supporting vital player protection initiatives.

We are really pleased to have raised more than £225,000 over the last four years. I can only hope we can continue this effort next year and raise even more for such deserving charities.

Ewa Bakun, Clarion Gaming director of industry insight and engagement

With a record-breaking number of exhibitors and a commitment to delivering excellence, ICE 2024 in London has set the stage for the event’s continued success. Its philanthropic efforts align with the ongoing commitment of the industry to support responsible gambling practices while offering a platform for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth.