Merkur Group bought 11 arcades from Basque company Operjoku S.L.U. The German operator also took control of gaming machines in 108 bars previously run by Operkale S.L.U.
Merkur Slots Spain handled the deal. They worked with distributor Merkur Dosniha to complete both purchases.
This marks Merkur’s first move into Spain’s bar-based gaming segment. The company already runs 28 arcades across Navarre, Cantabria, Madrid and the Balearic Islands. About 50 employees from the acquired businesses will join Merkur’s team.
Why Merkur Targeted the Basque Country
Spain’s land-based market offers long-term growth potential for established operators. Regional licensing frameworks create opportunities for consolidation among local players.
The Basque Country stands out as one of Spain’s most economically strong regions. Bar-based gaming there attracts steady player traffic and generates reliable revenue.
Merkur sees value in coordinating its arcade and hospitality operations under one umbrella. This integration should improve efficiency across both divisions. The hospitality segment tends to be competitive and dominated by regional operators, so entering it represents a structural shift for Merkur.
What the Acquisition Includes
The 11 arcades came from Operjoku’s existing network. All locations were already operational when Merkur took over.
The 108 bar sites add a new distribution channel for Merkur’s products. These venues previously featured machines serviced by Operkale.
Meik Sellenriek, Management Board Member at Merkur Operations, said Spain holds “great importance and long-term potential” for the group. He called the acquisition clear proof of that commitment.
Dominik Raasch, Management Board Member at Merkur Games, pointed to “strong synergies” between Merkur’s business divisions. He said the company can now offer its gaming machines and games in its own venues throughout the Basque Country.
How This Changes Merkur’s Spanish Position
The deal strengthens Merkur’s foothold in Spain’s regulated land-based market. It also puts the company directly into hospitality gaming for the first time there.
International groups are increasing their exposure to regional Spanish markets with solid regulatory structures. Merkur’s expansion follows this broader industry pattern.
The combined arcade and bar portfolio gives Merkur more control over its distribution. It doesn’t have to rely as much on third-party operators for machine placements. The Basque region acquisition could serve as a template for future moves into other Spanish territories.
Consumer preferences in bars and arcades continue shifting, and consolidation among local operators keeps accelerating.
