Paul Gauselmann

Paul Gauselmann (born 26 August 1934) is a German businessman who founded the Gauselmann Group, now known as Merkur Group, in 1964. Starting from humble beginnings after World War II, he began contributing to his family income at age 10 and later worked as an apprentice telecommunications inspector while operating jukeboxes on the side. This side business laid the foundation for his future empire in the amusement and gaming industry.

In 1974, Gauselmann opened the first Merkur amusement arcade, pioneering the modern German gaming machine industry. Over six decades, he grew the company into an international group with nearly 15,000 employees and annual revenues of approximately €4 billion. The company expanded into casinos, online gaming, sports betting, and electronic gaming machine production, becoming a major player in global iGaming.

Gauselmann established the Gauselmann Family Foundation in 1999, focusing on youth welfare and senior care. On August 26, 2024, he celebrated his 90th birthday, and on October 1, 2024, he formally stepped down as Chairman of the Management Board of Merkur Group after 67 years at the helm. He continues to serve as the company's founder and advisor, maintaining an active role in guiding the business. He is often referred to as the 'pope of the amusement business' in Germany.