50 years of MERKUR CASINO: 2004-2014

Arcades and ambience

When new gaming regulations led to the removal of certain 'fun games,' it opened up more floor space, allowing for a complete rethink of the center's layout. Machines were rearranged for better flow, introducing 'island' configurations in the center of the rooms. Starting in 2006, the interior shifted toward a 'Casino flair' concept, which brought in a more vibrant, colorful aesthetic. This era introduced indirect lighting and decorative ceiling sails, while the service counters were transformed into sleek casino bars.
The gaming machines were now positioned differently within the venue, including, for example, island solutions in the middle of the concessions. From 2006 onwards, the defining interior design concept in the arcades was called “Casino flair”, characterised above all by its colourful design. For the first time, ceiling sails and indirect lighting were introduced. The counters, known as casino bars, were redesigned.

The 'Casino flair' update extended to the buildings' exteriors as well. During a 2012 rebranding phase, the company transitioned its logo to 'CASINO MERKUR-SPIELOTHEK' and swapped the previous blue background for a bold red one.

During its fourth decade, MERKUR focused heavily on growing its global footprint, successfully expanding its presence into markets like Spain, the Netherlands, Austria, and the Czech Republic.

Marketing evolved significantly during this period. Moving beyond basic posters in the arcades, the company developed a wide-ranging promotional strategy that remains a cornerstone of their brand today.