This January, the global gaming industry will once again come together at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via for ICE Barcelona 2026. Following the massive success of its Barcelona debut last year, the event returns even larger this time around, with tens of thousands of industry professionals from all over the world attending. Groove will return as well, stepping confidently into its second decade of innovation and shaping the future of iGaming.
From London to Barcelona: A New Chapter for ICE
For many years, ICE - originally the International Casino Exhibition - took place in London, where it became the world's premier event for the gaming industry. The decision to move the show to Barcelona in 2025 was a turning point, driven by the city's top-class infrastructure, increased exhibition space, and vibrant business culture.
The move was a success, with more than 55,000 visitors and 600 exhibitors during its first year at the Fira Gran Via. It is the combination of size, energy, and strategic location that has helped Barcelona establish itself as the new home of ICE, with 2026 poised to take it to an even higher plane.
Why ICE Barcelona is Important
ICE is so much more than an exhibition. It's where the industry's year begins, where tech and regulation meet, and where partnerships are forged that will shape the future of gaming. The show is a launchpad for innovation - from AI-driven analytics right through to gamification platforms and compliance solutions - and a platform where regulators and operators from across the globe take the lead on responsible growth.
In 2026, ICE will once again spotlight the trends defining the next wave of iGaming: emerging markets, safer gambling practices, evolving player demands, and the growing role of AI and personalization in operator strategies. For anyone serious about staying ahead, ICE Barcelona is the place to be.
Who Will Be There
ICE Barcelona brings together all sides of the gaming ecosystem. Online and land-based casino operators of size will share their vision, while technology providers and games studios will unveil their newest products. Regulators and licensing authorities will also receive face-to-face time with industry leaders, so that compliance and responsible play are always top of mind.
Investors, affiliate networks, and media firms also flock to ICE, so it is one of those rare times when policy, business, and technology are all under one roof. For visitors, it is an unbeatable opportunity to meet decision-makers, learn new ideas, and make connections that can transform their year.
Groove at ICE 2026
ICE Barcelona 2026 is another milestone in a decade-old journey for Groove. Celebrating its tenth anniversary last year, Groove is leading into the future with a greater emphasis on innovation, scale, and partnerships.
At this year's event, Groove will showcase its powerful aggregation platform, advanced analytics, and gamification features that allow operators to stand out in mature markets. Its Smart Lobby technology, which is already a market-leader, will be showcased as part of Groove's mission to offer personalized, compelling player experiences.
Beyond all the showcasing technology on show, Groove's presence is about talking to partners new and representing. ICE offers the perfect platform for Groove to share its vision, hear from industry opinion, and present itself as a partner of choice for operators presented with new markets and shifting regulatory environments.
How to Get the Most Out of ICE Barcelona
Given that there is so much activity across the exhibition floor, structured attendees will be rewarded the most. Having an agenda of sorts - from keynotes to sheer must-call exhibitors - will translate to no opportunity being left behind. Scheduling meetings with the best partners in advance is also advised, as ICE's diary fills up so quickly.
But ICE is not only schedules. Some of the most significant connections occur in informal conversations - in networking receptions, evening receptions, or even the happy accidents. Being receptive and hearing new voices can make ICE a launching pad for long-term growth.
Finally, delegates need to get ICE to function as a marketplace and as a knowledge centre. The regulatory panels, thought-leadership forums, and product demos yield information that is applicable far beyond the event horizon. Delegates who marry learning with networking will carry ideas and contacts from Barcelona that impact their year.
Meet Groove at ICE Barcelona 2026
As ICE Barcelona 2026 becomes a reality, the whole industry will be keeping an eye on the innovations and collaborations that emerge there. With Groove, it is not just another exhibition, but a platform where it can share its vision for the iGaming future - one where high technology goes hand in hand with an emphasis on compliance, sustainability, and player interaction.
In an era of constant change, Groove will be taking the reins. ICE Barcelona 2026 is more than just a point of convergence - it is the starting line for another year of change, and Groove will be at the helm.
Catch up with Groove at ICE Barcelona 2026: Drop by our stand to experience the future of aggregation technology, AI-driven analytics, and player engagement solutions firsthand.
Book a meeting with our team to discover how Groove can drive your growth, expand your reach, and stay one step ahead in a rapidly evolving market.
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