Paul Gauselmann, founder and key figure of the MERKUR GROUP, dies

Gauselmann played a decisive role in the company's evolution for more than six decades. From the beginning, he dedicated a large part of his professional life to the growth of the group and, for decades, he also became one of the most prominent voices in defense of the interests of the German vending and arcade machine industry.

Throughout his entrepreneurial career, his influence transcended the borders of his own company. His commitment to the sector and his business activity earned him several public recognitions in Germany.

In 2003, Paul Gauselmann was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit First Class, one of the highest distinctions of the Federal Republic of Germany. A year later, in 2004, he was named honorary citizen of the cities of Espelkamp and Lübbecke, in recognition of his career and his link with these towns.

His figure was closely linked to the economic and business development of the region, as well as to the evolution of an industry in which he actively participated for 67 years.

For decades, Gauselmann was a central presence in the MERKUR GROUP. As founder and CEO of the company for a good part of its history, he helped define its development and consolidate its position in the market.

Beyond his entrepreneurial role, he also assumed a representative role within the sector for years, defending the interests of German industry and participating in discussions related to its future.

His death at the age of 91 puts an end to a business career that spanned more than six decades and was inseparably linked to the growth of the group he founded.

Paul Gauselmann leaves behind his wife, Karin, and their four children. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who are part of the family he leaves behind after a life marked both by his business activity and by his commitment to the development of the company and its environment.

The passing of Paul Gauselmann represents a significant loss for his family, for the MERKUR GROUP and for the industry to which he dedicated a large part of his life.

Paul Gauselmann passed away on August 21, 2026, at the age of 91. His entrepreneurial legacy and influence on German industry will remain a fundamental part of the MERKUR GROUP's history.

SEE OBITUARY: THE GAME CREATOR