Clarion Gaming has confirmed that its flagship ICE 2022 London and iGB Affiliate conferences have been postponed due to concerns about the spread of the COVID-19 Omicron variant and its impact on travel and event attendance. 

The conferences were due to take place at London’s ExCel Centre from 1-5 February, marking the start of global gaming’s conference agenda.

The decision to postpone the events was taken following a 48-hour review of COVID-19 conditions across the UK and Europe, in which Clarion Gaming observed that – “The current situation is not offering confidence to our international attendees who need to travel to ICE London and iGB Affiliate London.”

Stuart Hunter, Managing Director of Clarion Gaming, stated: “This comes as really disappointing news for everyone connected with ICE London and iGB Affiliate London.

“However, in what is a rapidly changing situation it became clear that we could not provide the certainty that our customers need in terms of logistical planning from the construction of stands, transportation of equipment as well as the booking of flights and accommodation.”

Updating partners, Clarion Gaming stated that it aimed to move the conferences to new dates in April 2022 – with the decision likely to be announced by next week.

 “The management team at Clarion Gaming will be working through the Christmas week and hope to be in a position by next Wednesday (22nd December) to confirm the new dates for ICE London and iGB Affiliate London 2022,” Hunter informed

“The ICE brand has always acted in the best interests of its customers and having consulted with members of the industry we have come to the conclusion that postponing until April represents the best route forward.

“It is a great shame that we will not be able to celebrate our return in February but the brand and its international community of stakeholders will bounce back in Spring.”