Play’n GO joins German Online Casino Association (DOCV)

Supplier names Melanie Hainzer as its representative as Germany’s regulated market debates channelisation and black-market pressure.

Play’n GO has joined the Deutscher Online Casinoverband (DOCV), the German Online Casino Association, as it steps up engagement with policymakers, regulators and industry stakeholders in Germany.

The DOCV represents the interests of the regulated online casino industry in Germany and acts as a forum for dialogue between companies, policymakers, authorities, media and the public. The association’s stated priorities include sustainable regulation, fair competitive conditions, player protection and a viable regulated market.

Play’n GO said its membership was unanimously approved. Melanie Hainzer, Market Owner DACH at Play’n GO, will represent the supplier in the association’s work.

The company positioned the move against ongoing debate over how Germany’s legal online gambling market can improve channelisation and compete with illegal operators. Magnus Olsson, Chief Commercial Officer at Play’n GO, said: “Germany should be one of Europe’s great regulated online gaming markets, but commercially the current position is not good enough. Licensed operators are being asked to compete with illegal businesses that do not pay the same taxes, follow the same rules or meet the same standards of player protection.”

Shawn Fluharty, Head of Government Affairs at Play’n GO, added: “That is why Play’n GO joins organisations such as the DOCV. We want to be at the table, contributing our international experience, challenging ideas where necessary and working constructively with others who are committed to the success of the regulated market.”