On 1 October 2024, the gaming and entertainment industry will witness a historic moment as Paul Gauselmann, the founder of the Merkur Group, steps down as Chairman of the Management Board after an incredible 67 years at the helm. His decision marks the end of an era for a man who built one of the most successful gaming companies in the world, taking it from a small, part-time venture into a €4 billion enterprise.

Merkur Group Leadership Shift: Paul Gauselmann Steps Down After 67 Years of Service

This leadership transition is not only a significant moment for the company but also for the industry, as it represents a generational shift that will impact the group’s future trajectory. With the new leadership structure in place, Merkur Group is poised to maintain its position as a global leader in the gaming industry while continuing to innovate and grow.

The Legacy of Paul Gauselmann: A Visionary Entrepreneur

Paul Gauselmann founded the Merkur Group in 1957, transforming it from humble beginnings into a global powerhouse within the gaming and entertainment industry. What began as a part-time operation, with Gauselmann repairing jukeboxes, evolved into one of the most recognizable names in gaming. Today, Merkur’s global reach spans over 40 countries, with more than 14,000 employees and annual revenues of approximately €4 billion ($4.4 billion).

Under Gauselmann’s leadership, Merkur became a pioneering force in the development and distribution of gaming machines, and its innovations helped shape the modern gaming industry. The company’s iconic Merkur Sun logo has become synonymous with high-quality, cutting-edge gaming technology, including slot machines, online platforms, and gaming arcades.

Gauselmann’s remarkable journey is defined by his unwavering commitment to innovation, a deep understanding of the gaming landscape, and his ability to adapt to an ever-evolving market. His leadership not only positioned Merkur as a leader in Germany but also as a significant player in international markets, particularly in Europe.

A Strategic and Thoughtful Leadership Transition

As Paul Gauselmann steps down, the company has outlined a well-thought-out succession plan, ensuring continuity while fostering new ideas and strategies to drive growth. The leadership mantle will now be passed to Lars Felderhoff, who will take over as Chairman of the Management Board.

Felderhoff, who has served as the company’s CFO since 2018, is well-prepared for his new role. He brings extensive experience in finance and commercial operations, having held key positions at GTech (now known as IGT) and Metro Cash & Carry International. His journey with Merkur began in 2011, when he joined as Commercial Director of adp Merkur, where he managed commercial operations for more than 40 companies within the group.

Felderhoff’s appointment signals the company’s commitment to maintaining a strong financial foundation while expanding its global reach. His background in both finance and operations positions him as the ideal leader to carry forward the Gauselmann legacy while navigating the complexities of the ever-changing gaming industry.

The New Leadership Structure: Key Players for the Future

In addition to Lars Felderhoff’s appointment as Chairman, the new leadership team will also include Jürgen Stühmeyer and Manfred Stoffers, both of whom will take on Vice-Chair roles.

Jürgen Stühmeyer: Sales Expertise at the Helm

Jürgen Stühmeyer, a longtime leader within the group, will be responsible for overseeing sales. His experience and track record in driving Merkur’s sales strategy have been instrumental in expanding the company’s footprint across multiple markets. With a focus on customer satisfaction and market-driven innovation, Stühmeyer’s role as Vice-Chair ensures that the group’s sales strategy remains competitive in the global market.

Manfred Stoffers: Marketing and Political Affairs Leadership

Manfred Stoffers, who will also serve as Vice-Chair, brings his expertise in marketing and political affairs. Stoffers’ role is crucial, as he not only oversees the company’s marketing strategies but also navigates the complex regulatory landscape that gaming companies must operate within. His leadership will be vital in ensuring that Merkur continues to maintain a strong reputation while adapting to shifting political and regulatory environments worldwide.

Reinhard’s Role in Technology and Development

To maintain continuity in the company’s technological innovation, Mr. Reinhard has been appointed as Board Member responsible for Technology and Development. His role will ensure that the company continues to prioritize innovation, particularly in the areas of game development and digital platforms. As technology plays an increasingly critical role in the gaming industry, Reinhard’s expertise will be invaluable in keeping Merkur at the forefront of the sector.

The Role of the Gauselmann Family: A Generational Shift

The leadership transition at Merkur Group also represents a broader generational shift within the Gauselmann family. Michael Gauselmann, the founder’s son, will take over as Chairman of the Supervisory Board and will also succeed his father as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Gauselmann Family Foundation.

Michael Gauselmann: Expanding the Family Legacy

Michael Gauselmann has been an integral part of the Merkur Group since 1982. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in the company’s international expansion. One of his most notable contributions was the establishment of Atronic in 1993, a subsidiary that focused on developing and distributing gaming machines globally. Atronic’s success further solidified Merkur’s international presence and set the stage for future growth.

As the new Chairman, Michael Gauselmann will be responsible for steering the family foundation and ensuring the group’s long-term sustainability. His deep understanding of the gaming industry and his commitment to continuing the family legacy make him the perfect successor to his father’s leadership.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Merkur Group

With this comprehensive leadership transition, Merkur Group is positioned for continued success. The company’s ability to adapt and evolve over its 67-year history is a testament to its resilience and innovative spirit.

The gaming industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and shifting regulatory landscapes. Under the new leadership of Lars Felderhoff, supported by experienced executives like Jürgen Stühmeyer, Manfred Stoffers, and Mr. Reinhard, Merkur is well-prepared to navigate these changes while continuing to deliver world-class gaming experiences.

Paul Gauselmann’s decision to step down marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for a new chapter in Merkur’s history. His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the company’s future.

FAQs About Merkur Group Leadership Shift

1. Who is Paul Gauselmann, and what is his contribution to the Merkur Group?

Paul Gauselmann is the founder of the Merkur Group, which he established in 1957. Over 67 years, he transformed it from a small, part-time business into a global company with annual revenues of approximately €4 billion. His leadership and vision helped Merkur become a leader in the gaming and entertainment industry.

2. When will Paul Gauselmann step down as Chairman of the Management Board?

Paul Gauselmann will step down as Chairman of the Management Board on 1 October 2024, marking the end of his long and successful tenure.

3. Who will succeed Paul Gauselmann as Chairman of the Management Board?

Lars Felderhoff, who has served as the company’s CFO since 2018, will take over as the new Chairman of the Management Board. Felderhoff has a strong background in finance and commercial operations.

4. What is Lars Felderhoff’s background and role in Merkur Group?

Lars Felderhoff joined Merkur in 2011 as the Commercial Director of adp Merkur. He has extensive experience in finance and commercial operations, having worked at companies such as GTech (now IGT) and Metro Cash & Carry International. He has been the CFO of Merkur since 2018 and will assume the role of Chairman of the Management Board in 2024.

5. Who else will be part of Merkur Group’s new leadership team?

In addition to Lars Felderhoff, the new leadership team will include Jürgen Stühmeyer, who will take on the role of Vice-Chair and be responsible for sales, and Manfred Stoffers, who will also serve as Vice-Chair overseeing marketing and political affairs. Mr. Reinhard will take over as a Board Member responsible for technology and development.

6. What role will Michael Gauselmann, Paul Gauselmann’s son, play in the new leadership structure?

Michael Gauselmann, the founder’s son, will become Chairman of the Supervisory Board and succeed his father as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Gauselmann Family Foundation. He has been with the group since 1982 and has played a crucial role in its international expansion.

7. What is the significance of this leadership transition for Merkur Group?

This leadership transition marks a generational shift within the Gauselmann family and ensures continuity in the company’s operations while paving the way for new ideas and innovation. The new leadership is well-equipped to continue the company’s legacy while expanding its global footprint.

8. What are Jürgen Stühmeyer’s responsibilities in the new leadership team?

Jürgen Stühmeyer will be responsible for overseeing sales within Merkur Group. His experience in sales strategy has been vital to the company’s growth in multiple markets, and he will continue to focus on maintaining and expanding the company’s customer base globally.

9. What is Manfred Stoffers’ role in the new leadership team?

Manfred Stoffers will serve as Vice-Chair with responsibilities for marketing and political affairs. He plays a key role in the company’s branding and marketing strategies while also managing the complex regulatory landscape that gaming companies must navigate.

10. How will technology and innovation continue to be a focus for Merkur Group?

Mr. Reinhard has been appointed as Board Member responsible for technology and development. His role will ensure that Merkur continues to prioritize technological innovation, particularly in game development and digital platforms.