Merkur Group Founder Paul Gauselmann Dies at 91

Paul Gauselmann, founder of Merkur Group and a leading figure in Germany's land-based gaming industry, died on 21 August 2026 at the age of 91. Merkur Group confirmed the news, acknowledging Gauselmann’s pivotal contributions to the company and the wider sector. His passing marks the end of an era for a supplier that evolved from a local operation in 1957 to an international group with total sales of approximately €2.1bn and 15,000 staff.

Leadership Transition at Merkur Group

Gauselmann had served as chair of the group and its supervisory board until January 2024, when he stepped down after 67 years at the helm. His son, Michael Gauselmann, succeeded him as chair of both the supervisory board and the Gauselmann Family Foundation. Lars Felderhoff, previously CFO, was appointed as chair of the management board. After the formal transition, Paul Gauselmann remained actively involved, regularly attending Merkur Group’s Espelkamp headquarters on Tuesdays and Thursdays to oversee ongoing operations.

Paul Gauselmann’s 67-Year Legacy

Paul Gauselmann established the business in 1957 under the original name Gauselmann Group. Over the decades, he personally led the transformation from a single-person enterprise into one of the largest land-based and digital gaming suppliers in Europe. The group underwent a major rebranding to Merkur Group in January 2024, continuing to pursue both organic growth and acquisition-led expansion.

An official obituary released by the company described Gauselmann as:

"one of the last patriarchs of the postwar era – a courageous fighter with grand visions, a proud father, great grandfather and husband" (Merkur Group press statement).

Throughout his tenure, Gauselmann was regarded as an accessible and highly respected leader. The statement highlighted how he "always made time for brief conversations with his employees, regardless of their role", and remained committed to open communication, shaped by his own experiences as an employee prior to founding the business.

Merkur Group Under New Direction

Following Paul Gauselmann’s departure from the chairmanship, Merkur Group has continued to pursue strategic growth opportunities. In July 2026, the company acquired games provider White Hat Studios in an undisclosed deal, strengthening its digital portfolio and North American ambitions.

These moves reflect a continuity of vision and investment in international markets, with the supervisory board and management now under the guidance of Michael Gauselmann and Lars Felderhoff, respectively.

A Family and Corporate Legacy

Paul Gauselmann is survived by his wife, Karin, four sons, nine grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His direct involvement in operations and corporate governance set the tone for a business culture that prioritised respect for employees at every level. Colleagues describe his management style as both personal and principled, citing "a word of appreciation here, an interested question there" as characteristic gestures that fostered company loyalty and cohesion.

Industry Impact and Outlook

The Gauselmann legacy includes a significant workforce, substantial international revenues, and a broad product range spanning physical gaming cabinets to online casino and games solutions. Today, Merkur Group operates as one of the largest suppliers in Europe, maintaining diversification across regulated markets.

For observers in the b2b and casino sectors, Gauselmann’s death concludes a distinctive era defined by founder-led strategy, long-term investment, and family stewardship. The leadership transition appears well-structured, with experienced executives and the next generation of the Gauselmann family assuming clear governance roles. The July acquisition of White Hat Studios underscores Merkur Group’s intentions to expand into new verticals and consolidate its international footprint.