The Gauselmann Group, the German company with a 67-year history not only as an amusement game producer and arcade operator, but as Germany’s largest gaming group, has changed its name to Merkur Group. From now on, the holding company Gauselmann AG will operate under the new name Merkur.com AG. The renaming was completed on January 1 with the entry in the commercial register.
“The corporate group is becoming increasingly digital and international,” said Paul Gauselmann, company founder and board chairman. “The change of name reflects this fact. Both developments will benefit from linking the appeal of our Merkur brand to the company name.” The move was announced at the beginning of September.
Gauselmann introduced the Merkur brand in the 1970s, and has gradually built it up. The success story began with the first proprietary amusement with prizes (AWP) machine, the Merkur B, and continued with the opening of the first company-owned arcade, Merkur Spielothek. Since then, numerous games, machines and gaming systems have been developed, produced and distributed under the “laughing sun” brand logo. “The renaming is also a nod to the success of the Merkur brand,” Gauselmann said.
This step has an impact on the entire corporate image. In addition to websites and social media channels, a large number of company signs also need to be adapted. All marketing materials—from large-scale banners to stationery—will appear in the new look. However, the changes to the brand image will not affect the presence of the entrepreneurial family. Merkur.com AG will remain in the ownership of the Gauselmann Family Foundation.
“Continuity and stability are cornerstones of our corporate philosophy and will continue to be important factors for success going forward,” Gauselmann said.
