Interview and photos: MERKUR outlines its Basque Country expansion with 11 gaming halls and 108 bar locations

Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): What strategic factors led MERKUR SLOTS to execute this deal in the Basque Country at this specific moment?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): We designed an expansion plan by identifying the autonomous communities that, in our view, are key to developing our operations. The Basque Country was one of the first regulated markets and has always shown strong stability in gaming hall and sports betting licences. Those factors make it sustainable over time. In addition, we already operated halls in Cantabria and Navarra, so from an operational standpoint it is very convenient for us to manage.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): What role does the Basque Country play within MERKUR’s overall expansion plan in Spain?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): It is a strategic region. Our intention is to continue growing sustainably there, both in gaming halls and in bars. We have taken a major step in the region by acquiring the 11 halls and 108 bar locations, probably MERKUR SLOTS’ most significant operation in Spain to date. Now we need to adapt and consolidate following this acquisition.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): To what extent does this operation reflect the group’s long-term commitment to the Spanish market?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): For Merkur Group, Spain is one of the most important markets and one where it wants to achieve the greatest development, and this major operation proves it. We have always had a strong presence through distribution with Merkur Dosniha, and now we will also strengthen our position at retail level with MERKUR SLOTS.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): How is the integration of the eleven acquired halls into MERKUR SLOTS’ current network being carried out?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): We are adapting to each other. They have operated very successfully for a long time, and our intention is for both sides to learn so we can deliver the best possible service. These first steps we are taking together are proving very enriching.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): What immediate changes will these halls see in terms of product, technology and corporate positioning?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): We acquired fairly mature halls, and most of them are in good condition. Naturally, this means our operational structure grows, and we have already adapted it with capable staff who are ready to take on the challenge. On the technology side, we need to install a stronger control system, which means implementing a casino management system aligned with the standards and guidelines we follow within Merkur Group. In terms of product, the halls currently feature a lot of pioneering product for the sector, so we will carry out a deeper assessment starting in 2026.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): This is the group’s first move into the hospitality segment in Spain. What strategic objectives are you pursuing with this new business line?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): It is our first move in Spain, but Merkur already has this business line in other countries and we are feeding off that experience. We believe the bar business in Spain aligns with our growth objectives, both technologically and at retail level. That is why we took the step to acquire it. Now we are in the learning process this new business line requires for us.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): How does this deal impact MERKUR SLOTS’ competitive position versus other hall and hospitality operators in northern Spain?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): Honestly, we will be a “friendly competitor”. We will adapt and work together with the associations, both for halls and for bars. At Merkur, we believe we will go further and do better if we work together to improve legislation and also when doing business at retail level. We are eager to integrate in the Basque Country, just as we already do in Cantabria, Navarra, Madrid and the Balearic Islands.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): What role will MERKUR DOSNIHA play as a technology partner in this new phase of expansion?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): We are in constant conversations with Merkur Dosniha. They are experts at delivering high-level entertainment to our customers, and we know that is key for the optimal development of both our bars and our halls. Both companies are major players in the Spanish market, and we see that relationship as essential to success.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): Should we expect further acquisitions or openings in Spain throughout 2026 and 2027?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): We are working to keep growing. We have a few operations that we hope will progress successfully so we can acquire them. Of course, our competitors are also in that process, so it is a challenge for us.


Question (Jacqueline Mecinas): What is the group’s next major objective within Spain’s land-based channel?
Answer (J. Fernando Delboy and Carolina Delcourt, MERKUR SLOTS): To have a greater presence in Spain. It is a core market for Merkur Group, and we are focusing all our efforts on continuing to grow, prioritising the profitability of new acquisitions.