Paul Gauselmann, Founder and Key Figure of Merkur Group, Passes Away

The founder of Merkur Group, Paul Gauselmann, passed away on August 21, 2026, at the age of 91, as confirmed by the company. Gauselmann was a central figure in the gambling industry, leading the growth of his company from a single operator to become an internationally recognized group in the sector, with notable presence in both physical cabinets and digital segments.

Legacy of Paul Gauselmann in Merkur Group

Paul Gauselmann established the company dedicated to gaming cabinets in 1957, originally under the name Gauselmann Group. Over decades, he personally oversaw the national and international expansion of the company, guiding its transition to a corporation with around 15,000 employees and total sales close to €2.1 billion. In January 2024, the company was renamed Merkur Group to consolidate its global identity and strengthen its positioning in the gaming sector.

"For 67 years, he directed the fate of the business group, transforming a sole proprietorship into a successful international corporation," states the mourning note released by the company.

Gauselmann was widely recognized for his accessible leadership and equal treatment of staff, values he promoted based on his own work experience prior to founding the company. The announcement highlights his habit of interacting directly with employees and being interested in their opinions and experiences within the company.

Leadership Changes Following Gauselmann's Retirement

In 2024, after 67 years at the helm, Paul Gauselmann stepped down as chairman of the board of Merkur Group. The succession fell to his son Michael Gauselmann, who took over the presidency of both the supervisory board and the Gauselmann Family Foundation. The Chief Financial Officer, Lars Felderhoff, was appointed as chairman of the board, ensuring the operational continuity of the group.

Despite his formal retirement, Paul Gauselmann continued to be involved in the daily operations and was often seen at the company headquarters in Espelkamp, Germany, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This level of personal commitment marked his management style until the last days of his life.

Merkur Group's Prospects and Recent Acquisitions

Merkur Group has solidified its reputation as one of the leading providers of gaming solutions, with significant presence in global markets and a family structure that continues to influence the group's strategy. In July 2026, the company announced the acquisition of White Hat Studios, a game provider, in a deal whose value was not disclosed. This acquisition strengthens Merkur Group's capability to expand into the digital segment and integrate with new technological trends in the industry.

For the market, the generational transition and recent acquisitions reinforce Merkur Group's role in the regulated international gambling industry. The succession process articulates the continuity of its foundational values with a strategic vision focused on both land-based and online sectors. More details about the evolution of leading operators can be found in the news or b2b sections.

Personal Life and Recognition of Paul Gauselmann

Paul Gauselmann passed away surrounded by his wife Karin, his four children, nine grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Recognition of his journey transcends the business realm, having been identified as "one of the last post-war patriarchs" by Merkur Group, symbolizing a generation of entrepreneurs who shaped the development of the gaming sector in Europe. The group emphasizes that his respect and appreciation for employees was one of the indisputable pillars of his success, a principle that remained firm throughout his life.

Paul Gauselmann leaves a tangible legacy in the extensive network of operations and corporate culture of Merkur Group, both in the European market and in its global expansion areas.