A Step Forward in Quality

11 March 2025 Off By Facto Edizioni

/ Growing numbers and high-quality content marked Feexpo 2025 in Bergamo /

A trade show designed to drive business in the most direct sense, yet also deeply aware of the broader social role played by the industry it represents, and a powerful platform amplifying the sector’s desire to engage with institutions, civil society, the media, and the public. The third edition of the Family Entertainment Expo (Feexpo), held at the Bergamo Exhibition Center in late February, likely marked a new chapter for this event dedicated to coin-op games with no cash payout. Organized by the FEE Consortium (a group of Italian amusement-only equipment manufacturers and distributors) and Promoberg (the company that manages the Bergamo trade center), the expo continues to evolve.

Continuing the positive trend of previous editions, Feexpo 2025 showcased the offerings of 64 exhibiting companies (including 9 from abroad) across 6,500sq.m, representing 14 Italian regions and 6 foreign countries. The numbers are up from past years – including attendance -giving visitors the chance to explore and test hundreds of new releases and best-sellers from the national and international amusement scene. The displays included kiddie rides, video games, football tables, simulators, redemption games, pinball machines, gadgets, and also cutting-edge innovations like VR experiences and more.

But it wasn’t just the showfloor that added value — panel discussions, talks, and networking moments brought depth to the event by tackling key issues facing the amusement sector in Italy. Among them: gaining recognition from public institutions as a legitimate industry in its own right. This sector includes over 6,200 companies (mostly small, family-run businesses with more than 30 years of history), employs over 60,000 people, generates €800 million in annual direct revenue, and operates more than 90,000 amusement-only machines across the country. This is an industry that promotes safe, family-friendly entertainment and thrives on technological innovation (as anyone who visits a game hall can see). It deserves the same status as other industries and should not be confused with gambling or other cash prize gaming activities, despite frequent misconceptions.

Several speakers also emphasized the positive social role of amusement-only venues, spaces where families can gather and young people can socialize in a safe environment. One meaningful announcement came during the conferences: a new partnership between the FEE Consortium and Moige (the Italian Parents Movement) to work together in combating social isolation and youth distress. “There’s no aspect of a minor’s life that shouldn’t also be considered educational,” said Antonio Affinita, Moige’s director. “Today, education can no longer fall solely on the shoulders of parents – even though they are the primary educators – because many others must play a role: from teachers to coaches to those working in youth entertainment, such as the amusement industry. Every moment in a child’s life should be protected and valued, and those working with children must be aware they are also playing an educational role.” That awareness is already present in the amusement-only sector. “These are responsible operators who do not see young people merely as consumers,” Affinita emphasized.

A standout aspect of the 2025 edition was the strong institutional presence, represented by Elisabetta Poso, Director of the Amusement Machines Office at the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency. In a public interview in the Feexpo Meeting Area, she shared her impression of the event: “What struck me most is the vibrant energy of this industry, which to me seems to be going through a phase of renewal and modernization,” she said. “I also appreciate the effort to build networks, collaborate, and bring new ideas to the table.” When asked about the strengths of the amusement-only sector, she added: “One of the key strengths of physical amusement is the role of operators, who interact directly with customers. This rarely – if ever – happens in online gaming. In my opinion, this is a huge advantage that operators should build on. It means taking responsibility and raising the professional standard within venues. That could be a game-changer, because improving reputation and communication across the sector would ultimately benefit the entire supply chain.”

By focusing heavily on content, ideas, listening, and dialogue, Feexpo 2025 confirmed itself as a mature, high-quality event, just like the sector it represents. With this strong momentum, organizers are already preparing for the fourth edition, which promises to be even better. The dates are set: February 24–26, 2026.”