The central importance of the ICE Consumer Protection Zone (CPZ) has been put into sharp focus with confirmation that Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive at the Gambling Commission will officially open the pioneering feature at 11.30am on Tuesday 6th February.

The official opening will follow the donation of £41,000 to a safer gambling charity selected by CPZ supporters and donors. The sum which has been generated courtesy of contributions made by leading brands comprising Light & Wonder, Flutter, Betsson Group, IGT, Novomatic, Neccton and Playtech takes the total raised by CPZ supporters to £238,000 over the last four years.

Reflecting on the development of the Consumer Protection Zone Ewa Bakun, Clarion Gaming's Director of Industry Insight and Engagement said: “The CPZ was created at the suggestion of the Gambling Commission's Tim Miller and it is therefore totally appropriate that the 2024 edition, the last to be held in London prior to our relocation to Barcelona next year should be opened by the Commission's Chief Executive, Andrew Rhodes.

“ICE became the first b2b gambling exhibition to include an area on the show floor dedicated to safer gambling. Since its launch in 2018 the CPZ has grown in both size and status to the extent that post-show research has confirmed it as the most popular ICE feature by show visitors. 

“The 2024 edition of the Consumer Protection Zone is the biggest on record comprising 20 booths showcasing technology and solutions providers alongside the industry's leading safer gambling charities. It remains the perfect place for all sectors to learn and share insights as to how we can deliver safe gambling experiences for players.”

Tracy Skenandore, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility at Light & Wonder, stated: “At Light & Wonder, we are committed to serving as responsible corporate stewards driven by purpose. With the best interest of our employees, players and communities at the forefront of our work, we are dedicated to investing in charities that support our communities, foster sustainability, support responsible gaming for our players, and which build a diverse and inclusive culture where equity and belonging can thrive. It's for all of these reasons we have chosen to support the Consumer Protection Zone as a donor, alongside our industry partners, to support worthy charities in both  the UK and internationally that will make a lasting impact.”

Dr Michael Auer, Managing Director of OpenBet's Neccton, added: "We are delighted to support the Consumer Protection Zone at this year's ICE London. The CPZ has the latest developments in player protection and safer gaming at its core, and its donations make a significant difference to charities supporting positive play and tackling gambling-related harm each year. At Neccton, we continue to develop the most up-to-date player protection tools and contribute to the wider discussion around responsible gaming using research-informed insights, which is why we are thrilled to be part of this year's line-up of speakers at the CPZ. The last year has been pivotal in the global regulatory landscape and we expect the Zone to be a major focal point for many ICE attendees."