Blueprint Operations Managing Director Andy Tipple reflects on a show that delivered against ambitious objectives and set a confident tone for the year ahead. From high-quality customer engagement, and a solid order book to standout licensed content and a positive industry mood, the Blueprint team left London in upbeat mood and looking ahead to what promises to be a strong start to 2026.
Coinslot: How did the show go for you this year: did it meet your expectations?
We went to EAG with high expectations and objectives which I’m delighted to confirm we succeeded in meeting and in some cases exceeding. There was a very strong quality of engagement across the three days, and we were able to spend time with all of our key customers. The ability to hold meaningful, focussed discussions with operators is a central plank of our sales and marketing strategy which is consultative in nature. As such it’s very important to be able to spend time explaining the detail of our new product launches as well as outlining the Blueprint roadmap for the year. The January timing of EAG is significant not only because it provides a springboard into Q1 but it also sets the tone for the year ahead. I should also pay tribute to the Blueprint team: everyone was extremely confident across the entire product portfolio which in-turn impacts our customers who know they are receiving insight and information from people who really know what they are talking about.
Coinslot: Any key developments finalised at EAG – new agreements signed, new appointments, installations agreed etc?
We were pleased with the level of business secured during the show, with orders taken across both the B3 and Category C product ranges. Category C continues to be a strong area for the business, while the Velocity cabinet maintained its strong performance and attracted significant interest. The Spintec Roulette also saw good engagement, leading to further orders. Overall, the level of commitment secured at EAG provides a high degree of confidence heading into 2026.
Coinslot: What were the stand highlights – which products caught the attention and what was reaction to your portfolio of products?
Monopoly was a clear highlight of the stand attracting huge attention from every visitor. It’s arguably one of the most recognised brands in the world. There’s an affection for Monopoly and operators can see the value of deploying it across venues. There was a really positive response to Blueprint’s interpretation of the game with particularly strong feedback on build quality, the animation and overall player appeal. Positioned alongside Bullseye, Monopoly was seen as a powerful and recognisable proposition that resonates with both regular and new players. There’s a recognition that we have done an awful lot more than simply badge a game. Monopoly and Bullseye are both really strong games in their own right – the licenses add to the appeal.
Coinslot: It’s going to be a defining year for the business – new legislation and new regulation. How did you gauge the general mood of the industry and what were the main talking points?
The general mood across the show was positive, with the confirmation that MGD will remain at 20 percent proving significant for operators. This removed a level of uncertainty around operator budgets for 2026 and capital planning, allowing businesses to plan with clarity and confidence. While discussions around technical standards continue, no immediate changes are expected certainly in the short-term. Overall, there was a sense of cautious but genuine optimism, despite the wider economic pressures not least the significant uptick in the cost of running a business.
Coinslot: Now the show is over, what’s on your agenda going into spring in terms of new products, new projects and more exhibitions?
Looking ahead to spring, Blueprint’s focus remains on the continued roll-out of a strong pipeline of new game content, which will be the key priority for the business this year. With the cabinet range now largely set, the team is able to focus fully on content performance and delivery, supported by continued investment in technical and service support. There is also a strong emphasis on making machines as easy as possible for customers to operate and support. Straight from EAG we went to ICE showcasing selected products on the group stand in Barcelona. What happens at EAG and ICE has a major impact not just on Blueprint but on the entire industry. It’s a pivotal part of the year.
