Sports Betting Operator TV

In this exclusive interview for Casino Life and Sports Betting Operator TV, we speak with Alex Oswald, Managing Director of Metropolitan Gaming, and Andrew Sackey, Senior Vice President of Commercial Strategy at Aristocrat Gaming, about the landmark launch of Aristocrat on the Square at Empire Casino London, the first dedicated Aristocrat Gaming space in the UK. Filmed during the official launch celebration at the Empire Casino Leicester Square, the conversation explores how this partnership is delivering a new premium gaming environment in the heart of London’s entertainment district, combining tailored UK content, immersive design, and a long-term vision for enhancing the player experience. Oswald and Sackey discuss the strategic thinking behind the collaboration, the significance of this UK debut, and what players and operators can expect from this next chapter in premium casino entertainment. Interview with Alex Oswald, Managing Director, Metropolitan Gaming (1:15) How important is the slots offering to the overall casino experience at Empire Casino London? (1:50) What are you looking for when selecting new machines from Aristocrat Gaming for the venue? (2:23) How do slots fit into Empire’s wider entertainment proposition alongside table games, bars and location-driven footfall? (2:57) What kind of player demographic are you seeing engage most with the new machines? (3:35) Leicester Square is one of London’s most competitive leisure destinations, how do premium slot products help Empire stand out? (4:17) How important is brand recognition in slot play, do players actively seek out specific game titles or suppliers? (4:52) How do you see the role of slots evolving in UK land-based casinos over the next few years? Interview with Andrew Sackey, Senior Vice President of Commercial Strategy, Aristocrat Gaming (5:30) Aristocrat already has a strong footprint in the UK — what makes the Empire Casino Leicester Square installation particularly significant? (6:03) How do you decide which titles are right for a flagship high-visibility venue compared with a regional casino? (6:45) What trends are you currently seeing in player behaviour that influence game deployment decisions? (7:21) What does a successful operator–supplier partnership look like from Aristocrat’s perspective? Joint Discussion (7:51) How closely did Aristocrat and Empire collaborate on selecting the final machine mix for this launch? (8:43) How important are storytelling and themed experiences in engaging today’s casino player? (9:40) What does this launch say about the future of premium slot experiences in flagship UK casinos? (10:31) If you had to recommend one Aristocrat title that best represents this installation, which would it be and why? Outsource Digital Media Ltd publishers of Casino Life & Sports Betting Operator TV would like to thank Edwin Ford for his assistance with the interview questions. Video recording and production by George Bentley. Copyright 2026 Outsource Digital Media Ltd. https://www.outsourcedigitalmedia.com . About Interview Host Peter Wilkinson-White: linkedin.com/in/peterjcwhite Subscribe to our TV Channel: https://bit.ly/3dELXwA Sign Up for our Newsletters: - https://www.casinolifemagazine.com About: https://www.casinolifemagazine.com/about About: https://sportsbettingoperator.com/about/ Join our LinkedIn Group: https://bit.ly/3AyYLhZ Find Us on Twitter: casinolifemag & operatorsports Follow Us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3wcY8a7
Aristocrat on the Square Casino Life & Sports Betting Operator Interview
Casino Life & Sports Betting Operator TV caught up with Anna Kushnir, Head of Brand at Boomerang Partners, at iGB Affiliate 2026 in Barcelona, to discuss why2026 is being positioned as “the Year of Sports” for affiliates and betting marketers. Speaking from the Boomerang Partners booth, Anna shares her first impressions of the show and explains how a packed global sports calendar, including major events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Winter Olympic Games, is creating significant opportunities for sports betting affiliates. The conversation also explores the thinking behind Boomerang Partners’ Sports Marketing & Betting Calendar for 2026, a strategic playbook designed to help affiliates plan smarter, maximise peak traffic moments, and build more efficient marketing strategies throughout the year. Drawing on Boomerang’s sports marketing expertise, affiliate experience, and insights from partnerships such as AC Milan, the calendar is positioned as a practical tool for both newcomers and experienced affiliates. (0:58) What's your first impressions of iGB Affiliate 2026? (1:14) You’re calling 2026 the ‘Year of Sports’, why is this such a pivotal year for sports affiliates?” (1:55) What was the main idea behind creating the ‘Sports Marketing & Betting Calendar 2026’? (3:05) Who is this calendar really built for, experienced affiliates, newcomers, or both? (4:02)You break strategies into pre-event, live, and post-event phases, which phase do affiliates most often get wrong? (4:50) Live betting keeps growing, what’s one insight from the calendar affiliates can act on immediately? (5:28) Esports features strongly in the guide, how essential is esports now to a modern sports affiliate strategy? (6:15) How has the reaction been from visitors here at ICE Barcelona to the Boomerang booth? (6:44) What’s been the most popular topic or feature people are asking about at the show so far? (7:20) For affiliates visiting you here in Barcelona, what’s the key takeaway you want them to leave with? (8:10) And finally, where else can we expect to see Boomerang Partners exhibiting in 2026? Interview by Peter White, was conducted from the Boomerang Partners https://boomerang-partners.com/ Booth at iGB Affilate Barcelona https://barcelona.igbaffiliate.com/ Video recording and production by George Bentley. Copyright 2026 Outsource Digital Media Ltd. https://www.outsourcedigitalmedia.com . About Interview Host Peter Wilkinson-White: linkedin.com/in/peterjcwhite Subscribe to our TV Channel: https://bit.ly/3dELXwA Sign Up for our Newsletters: - https://www.casinolifemagazine.com About: https://www.casinolifemagazine.com/about About: https://sportsbettingoperator.com/about/ Join our LinkedIn Group: https://bit.ly/3AyYLhZ Find Us on Twitter: casinolifemag & operatorsports Follow Us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3wcY8a7
Casino Life Sports Betting Operator TV Interview with Ana Kushnir, Head of Brand Boomerang Partners
Peter White sits down with Michael Boettcher, Founder and President of Storm International, to explore a remarkable career that helped shape the modern international casino industry. From London croupier to building the legendary Shangri-La Casino brand in post-Soviet Moscow, this is a masterclass in gaming, leadership, and resilience. Interview Chapters (01:28) Entering the Casino Industry Michael’s first steps as a dealer in London in the early 1970s (02:45) Life as a Croupier Early lessons from working at Charlie Chester’s, the Playboy Club, and beyond (03:45) From Tables to Opportunity How chance, timing, and personal upheaval led Michael towards entrepreneurship (05:17) Discovering Russia (1991–1992) First impressions of Moscow after Perestroika and recognising a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (06:31) Learning What Not to Do Why poor management taught Michael how to run casinos differently (09:10) Inside Casino Management Culture A candid look at casino hierarchies, decision-making, and accountability (11:21) Defining a Leadership Philosophy Treating people fairly, answering questions, and building trust (15:22) The “Wild West” Casino Era Stories from London’s casinos and the realities of early gaming floors (15:51) Creating the Shangri-La Brand How the iconic name was chosen and why it resonated with players (18:02) Legal Challenges & Brand Protection Trademark disputes and defending the Shangri-La identity (20:00) Marketing Shangri-La in Moscow The billboard campaign that sparked intrigue before launch (21:27) Russia’s Gaming Boom and the 2009 Ban Preparing for closure and deciding Storm International’s future (23:52) International Expansion Strategy Why new markets often approached Storm rather than the other way around (26:01) Armenia and Regional Growth Building long-term success in Yerevan and plans for future developments (27:30) The Secret to Sustained Quality Management, culture, and loyalty as Storm International’s foundation (29:19) Moving into Online Gaming Early online attempts, lessons learned, and Shangri-La Online’s evolution (31:22) Land-Based vs Online Gaming Why both formats coexist—and why casinos still matter (33:12) When Technology Misses the Point Why gaming knowledge matters as much as tech innovation (36:09) Government Regulation & Its Impact How taxation and legislation are reshaping the global gaming industry (39:40) Europe’s Casino Landscape Today Why so many casinos are struggling or for sale (41:25) Advice for the Next Generation Why Michael’s journey can’t be replicated—and what really matters (43:29) Future Plans & New Markets Online expansion, licensing opportunities, and emerging regions (45:09) What Michael Is Most Proud Of People, culture, and lasting influence (46:05) A Powerful Personal Story Being recognised by a former employee years later (48:11) Final Reflections Doing things the right way—and letting success follow (48:54) Closing Remarks
Micheal Boettcher President Storm International interview Casino Life & Sports Betting Operator TV
In this exclusive interview, I sit down with Vince Lentini, Casino Director at Margaritaville at Sea, to dive into the unique world of cruise ship casinos and how the brand is shaping the future of gaming at sea. From game design and player experience to responsible gaming and brand integration, Vince offers an insider’s look at what makes Margaritaville’s onboard casinos stand out. Topics Covered: 00:46 – Overview of Margaritaville at Sea 01:32 – How the Beachcomber casino builds upon Islander & Paradise 02:24 – Guest insights shaping casino design 03:15 – Balancing Margaritaville’s relaxed vibe with gaming excitement 03:56 – Unique games, tournaments & formats onboard 04:23 – Future of unified casino rewards across the fleet 05:14 – Key KPIs & guest feedback 06:15 – Responsible gaming in “vacation mode” 07:20 – Key cruise destinations 08:05 – Food & drink , the Margaritaville experience 08:52 – How the brand stands out from competitors 10:24 – Entertainment & live acts onboard 11:19 – Who is the ideal cruise casino guest? 13:06 – Attracting crossover land-based players 14:26 – Casino design as part of the Margaritaville lifestyle 15:32 – Slot-to-table mix & player behaviour 16:55 – New technologies: digital wallets, hybrid gaming & more 18:00 – Using player data & loyalty programs 19:30 – Regional gaming preferences in new cruise destinations 20:56 – Strategic priorities for Margaritaville casinos Whether you’re in the casino industry, a gaming enthusiast, or simply curious about life onboard a cruise ship, this interview provides unique insights into how Margaritaville is reimagining the casino experience at sea. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders in the global gaming industry.
Interview Vince Lentini Casino Director Margaritaville at Sea
In this compelling interview, Erwin van Lambaart shares his insights on the key issues shaping the future of Europe’s regulated casino industry. From the growing threat of illegal gambling to the importance of innovation, player protection, and cross-border cooperation, van Lambaart outlines his vision for sustainable, responsible growth in a rapidly evolving sector. (00:33) – Illegal Gambling: A Serious Threat "Illegal gambling undermines our industry and threatens player safety—it’s a problem we urgently need to address." (02:15) – The Cost of Unlicensed Operators "They operate without oversight, avoid taxes, and expose players to risk—damaging the entire ecosystem." (04:00) – The Need for Cross-Border Cooperation "Fighting illegal gambling requires better collaboration between regulators and licensed operators." (06:10) – Strengthening EU Enforcement & Policy "The EU must implement clearer rules and enforcement tools, especially around advertising and illegal platforms." (08:25) – Player Protection in 2025 "We’re raising standards, focusing especially on younger and more vulnerable players." (10:40) – Leveraging Data and Technology "Advanced analytics help us detect risky behaviour early and intervene to protect our customers." (13:00) – Shared Responsibility for Safer Gambling "Regulators and operators must work hand-in-hand to deliver effective responsible gambling programs." (15:20) – ECA’s Push for Harmonised Standards "We advocate for unified, high-quality standards that benefit players and operators across Europe." (17:35) – Transforming Casinos Austria into an Entertainment Destination "Our ‘Xperience Zones’ are designed to offer a broader range of entertainment beyond gaming." (20:00) – Innovation Meets Tradition "Technology enhances our classic casino atmosphere, giving guests the best of both worlds." (22:15) – ESG and Sustainable Investment "We’re committed to growth aligned with environmental and social governance priorities." (24:30) – ECA Leadership Priorities "My focus is on player protection, enforcement against illegal markets, and supporting legal growth." (26:45) – Casino Bregenz & Dealer Excellence "Hosting the European Dealer Championships here celebrates professionalism and skill." (29:00) – Strategic Vision for Casinos Austria "Our long-term goals include financial resilience, innovation, and responsible operations." (31:15) – Trust, Tradition, and Innovation "We aim to lead through a combination of heritage and forward-thinking initiatives." (33:30) – Diversifying the Offering "Live events, fine dining, and digital platforms are helping us engage a broader and younger audience." (35:45) – Global Growth Opportunities "We’re exploring expansion into carefully selected emerging markets outside Europe." (38:00) – Innovation Through Partnerships "Strategic partnerships in technology and content keep us competitive on the global stage." (40:15) – Evolving into a Full-Service Leisure Brand "Our ambition is to lead not just in gaming, but across the entire leisure and entertainment spectrum."
Interview with Erwin van Lambaart, CEO, Casinos Austria & Chairman, European Casino Association
Interview with Empire Casino Leicester Square Venue Director, Richard Smith In this exclusive interview, Richard Smith, Venue Director of Empire Casino Leicester Square, shares exciting updates and developments at one of London's most iconic gaming and entertainment destinations. (01:00) Richard opens the discussion by outlining the casino’s extensive refurbishment project, detailing how the venue continues to operate seamlessly while major construction is underway—including the creation of a brand-new electronic gaming area. (04:12) He introduces the innovative new bar-top terminals, enhancing the guest gaming experience. (04:49) Richard highlights the latest addition to the venue’s food offering: the 7th Cat Chinese Food Kitchen, serving authentic Chinese cuisine. (05:20) He also reveals the casino’s secluded bar, complete with a balcony offering stunning views over Leicester Square. (06:00) Empire’s commitment to poker players is discussed, with updates on how the venue caters to the poker community. (07:10) Richard provides insight into plans for the VIP Gaming Area. (07:55) With sports betting becoming an increasingly important focus, Richard unveils plans for the Kings Bar, a dedicated sports betting lounge broadcasting live sports from around the world, 24/7. (09:55) He shares what makes the Leicester Square casino experience unique. (10:44) Looking ahead, Richard outlines how the completed areas of the casino will be promoted throughout the year. (11:42) He discusses the challenges and importance of signage. (12:57) A new external food and beverage offering at the Leicester Street entrance is scheduled to open in 2025. (13:34) Richard briefly reflects on his career journey so far. (14:54) The interview concludes with a look at what promises to be an exciting year ahead for Empire Casino Leicester Square.
Richard Smith Interview Venue Director Empire Casino Leicester Square
Nick's Vision for the Future of Gaming: London Casino & Gaming Show 2026 In this insightful interview, Nick shares his thoughts on the evolution of the London Casino & Gaming Show, his new role, and the industry’s future post-ICE. From team development to addressing critics, Nick offers a candid look at what’s ahead for one of the UK’s most anticipated gaming events in 2026. 🕒 Timestamps & Key Topics: (01:10) Nick reflects on the inaugural London Casino & Gaming Show and the legacy of former Chairman, Martin Burlin. (01:44) Will more companies exhibit at both ICE Barcelona and the London Casino & Gaming Show in 2026? (03:12) Nick’s advice for companies considering participation in both London and Barcelona shows. (04:19) How the team behind the show is shaping up for the future. (04:49) What Nick’s new role entails—and how it’s evolving with the event. (05:22) Nick’s key aspirations and goals for the 2026 edition of the show and its partner exhibitions. (07:11) A look back at Nick’s early career and how he entered the gaming industry. (09:01) Reflections on Nick’s first 10 months with the London Casino & Gaming Exhibition. (10:04) The show’s approach to promoting responsible gambling in 2026. (11:25) Nick responds to critics claiming the show is just “sour grapes” after London lost ICE. (12:34) A look ahead: will new sectors like sports betting and payment services be introduced in 2026? 📢 Whether you're part of the industry or simply curious about its future, this interview provides behind-the-scenes insight into the planning and purpose behind London’s Premier Casino Exhibition. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive industry interviews and event updates.
Nick Harding Chairman EAG Expo Interview Post the Inaugural 2025 London Casino & Gaming Show.
There are few people whom have been so influential in Poker's evolution and popularity growth than Jack Binion. (0:58) Do you think that the future of poker tournaments is live, in traditional casinos, or online? Or both? (1:40) What was your primary reason for leaving Las Vegas, and establishing a new casino in Biloxi? (2:40) Is it true that you basically had to start from scratch, in order to build your Casino after leaving Las Vegas? It is a remarkable achievement. (3:51) Jack explains the reasons for the sale of the World Series of Poker and Is it true that you basically had to start from scratch, in order to build your Casino after leaving Las Vegas? It is a remarkable achievement. (5:31) What is your opinion about the current status of these two major brands World Series of Poker & Harrah's in today's world? (6:17) Do you have any plans to return to the Casino industry? As an operator? Or perhaps some other involvement? (6:55) What is your opinion on corporate ownership of casinos, and gaming equipment manufacturers? (9:18) If you were running a casino in Las Vegas today, would you do it differently than it is being done now? (10:36) And if you were doing the same thing in the Midwest, or running a casino in Biloxi, would you do it the same way today? (11:35) What is your opinion of the gaming industry as a whole in present day in the United States? (12:28) How would you describe the status of the gaming industry elsewhere in the world? (15:27) Finally, what would be your top 5 items of advice to anyone running a casino in today's gaming, political, and economic environments? Interview by Peter White, was conducted from the Heliot Restaurant Hippodrome Casino Leicester Square London https://www.hippodromecasino.com/ Copyright 2024 Outsource Digital Media Ltd. https://www.outsourcedigitalmedia.com . About Interview Host Peter Wilkinson-White: linkedin.com/in/peterjcwhite Subscribe to our TV Channel: https://bit.ly/3dELXwA Sign Up for our Newsletters: - https://www.casinolifemagazine.com About: https://www.casinolifemagazine.com/about About: https://sportsbettingoperator.com/about/ Join our LinkedIn Group: https://bit.ly/3AyYLhZ Find Us on Twitter: casinolifemag & operatorsports Follow Us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3wcY8a7
Jack Binion Interview with Casino Life & Sports Betting Operator TV
(0:57) Simon explains his approach over the years to balancing the technical, visual and structural aspects of the Hippodrome whilst retaining the building's impressive classic 124 year old architecture. (3:36) Hear what Simon has to say about the Governments Gambling Review White Paper (5:45) The word ‘Casino’ and ‘Roulette’ are often used in a negative context particularly with regards to the less regulated Stock Market. (7:53) Simon comments on the UK current situation with High Street Amusement arcades representing themselves as Casinos. (8:21) Magic Mike has passed over 2000 performances, Simon provides insight into the show's endearing popularity and how it fits into the mix of entertainment and fun provided to guests at the Hippodrome. (10:48) Simon explains a Typical Day at the Hippodrome incorporating a couple of amusing anecdotes. (12:56) Simon provides insight into his Strategy involved with Development and Implementation of the New Experiences for Guests (14:44) What can we expect next from The Hippodrome? What’s on the mood board for 2025? (16:46) Hippodrome Rewards Simon explains their approach to benefits and rewards to for its members of its loyalty scheme. (18:21) London has a new Casino Exhibition The London Casino & Gaming Show, Simon provides his opinion on the importance of London retaining a Casino Industry Exhibition ( 19:36) What are amongst some of your major goals for the Hippodrome in the years ahead? Interview by Peter White, was conducted from the Permission Bar Hippodrome Casino Leicester Square Casino London https://www.hippodromecasino.com/ Video recording and production by George Bentley. Copyright 2024 Outsource Digital Media Ltd. https://www.outsourcedigitalmedia.com . About Interview Host Peter Wilkinson-White: linkedin.com/in/peterjcwhite Subscribe to our TV Channel: https://bit.ly/3dELXwA Sign Up for our Newsletters: - https://www.casinolifemagazine.com About: https://www.casinolifemagazine.com/about About: https://sportsbettingoperator.com/about/ Join our LinkedIn Group: https://bit.ly/3AyYLhZ Find Us on Twitter: casinolifemag & operatorsports Follow Us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3wcY8a7
Simon Thomas Hippodrome Casino London Interview with Casino Life & Sports Betting Operator TV
(1:15) Nick outlines the key reasons behind the launch of the London Casino & Gaming Show (2:38) And goes on to explains key advantages for Casino Suppliers with involvement with the new show (6:02) What can Casino Operators Expect from attending (7:04) January is a busy month for exhibitions, Nick explains the principal reasons why this is a must attend event for Casino Operators. (7:33) Why exhibit? ( 8:04) Conference? (8:40) From an exhibitor perspective what sectors will be represented at the show? (9:31) Can we expect the appeal of London to be incorporated in the promotion of the show? (11:14) Nick explains to viewers how they can find out more about exhibiting, sponsoring and attending. Interview by Peter White, was conducted from the Permission Bar Hippodrome Casino Leicester Square Casino London https://www.hippodromecasino.com/ Video recording and production by George Bentley. Copyright 2024 Outsource Digital Media Ltd. https://www.outsourcedigitalmedia.com . About Interview Host Peter Wilkinson-White: linkedin.com/in/peterjcwhite Subscribe to our TV Channel: https://bit.ly/3dELXwA Sign Up for our Newsletters: - https://www.casinolifemagazine.com About: https://www.casinolifemagazine.com/about About: https://sportsbettingoperator.com/about/ Join our LinkedIn Group: https://bit.ly/3AyYLhZ Find Us on Twitter: casinolifemag & operatorsports Follow Us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3wcY8a7
Nick Harding Interview with Casino Life & Sports Betting Operator
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