Despite the economic turbulence of recent times, EAG 2026 provided companies from across the UK and beyond the chance to show their confidence in the sector, debuting a series of new innovations designed to make this year a year of growth. Speaking to Coinslot on a busy opening day, show organiser Nicola Lazenby explained how the enthusiastic contribution of exhibitors makes all the difference.
If you confined yourself to reading newspaper headlines over the past 12 months, or indeed two years – or even five – you might be convinced that any event bringing UK business leaders, manufacturers, suppliers, SMEs, and entrepreneurs together might rapidly become a doom and gloom affair, not least for the amusements and gaming industry which has gone through a tortuous Gambling Review consultation process with more to come.
But not so EAG 2026 on the opening day. This year’s event was yet another reminder of how resilient the UK amusement, leisure and gaming industries are, and though most firms hope that 2026 is the year their “resilience” no longer needs to be praised, there was no doubt the industry is brimming with fresh ideas.
“There’s a real upbeat feeling,” said show organiser Nicola Lazenby. “Everybody took a deep breath in the week after the Budget, but what that has meant is that everyone has come in with a very positive outlook and is trying to look forward, looking for growth.”
She added: “Everybody’s come in with the right attitude to make this show a success, to start their 2026 as they mean to go on. I’ve been really impressed by the creativity on the stands, especially the first-time exhibitors – they’ve really pulled out all the stops – but also our loyal long-term exhibitors never fail to raise their game when they get here.”
The 65,000 sq ft hall was packed with a record number of exhibitors and customers from 11 countries, all keen to see the latest innovations the UK market has to offer, from jukeboxes and VR experiences, pushers and cranes, plush toys and kiddie rides, to machine management systems, payment processing software and facial recognition software.
New infrastructure additions to the show have certainly helped, including the upgraded registration area and signage, while the presence of a marching band during the show’s opening gave the occasion a touch of theatre.
“From the conversations I’ve had with exhibitors so far it’s all been really appreciated and well-received,” said Lazenby.
“There is a legacy behind this show, and being trade association-owned means it really has a place in people’s hearts and in the core of the sector. In terms of the calendar it’s a really positive way to start the year, and importantly it also allows people to come together, meet new people and old friends, and network.”
Start as you mean to go on
Nicola Lazenby said… “Everybody’s come in with the right attitude to make this show a success, to start their 2026 as they mean to go on…
Originally published on Coinslot on January 19, 2026. Republished with permission.