DivaJackpot sits down with Julian Perry, COO and Founder of Players Publishing, following his acceptance of the prestigious ICE Landmark Award, recognizing over 15 years of impact in gaming industry media and commentary. From building leading publications such as Gambling Insider and Gaming America, to launching the new global identity Global Gaming Insider, Perry has been at the forefront of industry news.
In this exclusive interview for Diva Jackpot, we explore his journey, insights on industry trends, and what is next for gaming media and gaming awards.
In this exclusive interview for Diva Jackpot, we explore his journey, insights on industry trends, and what is next for gaming media and gaming awards.
Добави файлове
Looking back over the past 15 years, what moments and learnings stand out as defining milestones in your journey?
- My long-term friendship and business partnership with my co-owner, Gary Roudette.
- The staff who have been alongside us every step of the way, some from the beginning, many for over 10 years.
- Becoming the most trusted and biggest industry news source.
- Keeping open during 2 years of Covid lockdowns and paying all our staff. Even coming out of it stronger.
- Creating the Global Gaming Awards and seeing it become the benchmark for integrity. Winning a Global Gaming Award is basically the leaders of this industry saying you are the best.
- How hard work and belief do pay off, even if sometimes you must take it a day at a time. Sounds like a cliché, but I do believe this one is true.
Добави файлове
What do you think has been the key factor behind the long-term success of your media platforms?
If you want to build a business with value and longevity, it takes time. Global Gaming Insider is a media business; you need to invest in good journalism and real people, and over time, your reputation will grow together with your following. No tricks or shortcuts.What major trends are currently shaping the global gambling and media landscape in 2026?
There are so many suppliers to this industry now, and this makes it very competitive. You have to build a brand and stand out from the crowd. A company is managing to stay on top (the first choice) for a year or two at best; this used to be 5 years at least. The consequences are that the companies must invest more, not just in marketing but also in product and innovation, to stay ahead.Добави файлове
With the rise of crypto casinos and decentralized platforms, how is the industry adapting to new player behaviors?
I am a great believer in crypto and the benefits of the blockchain. However, at the moment, crypto is not the flavour of the month; it has not been for many months. Until that positive buzz returns, reenergizing hundreds of millions of small investors, I believe the overall market will remain flat.Crypto casinos are very interesting because they offer some benefits that a traditional casino does not have, provable fair gaming, and an audit is possible on the blockchain. I can see this as a very attractive benefit for high rollers, and it it probably helps explain the high-stakes level in many crypto casinos.
What strategic goals are you aiming to achieve with your new global initiative, Global Gaming Insider?
Global Gaming Insider is all about creating an omnichannel news, information, and analysis service that matches the way business news is consumed today. Our whole news output can be customized to match the needs of each individual user. It is truly groundbreaking.How does Global Gaming Insider differentiate itself in an increasingly competitive media landscape?
As a news outlet, we will always cover the important news, but our role is much deeper than that. We provide insight and analysis beyond the headlines on all major stories. We have invested a lot of time into video - our super successful ‘Huddle’ exec interviews remain, but we are adding episodic documentaries, special video reports, and many other series. Our video output will be very exciting over the next 12 months. To anchor everything together, our website is a fully customizable resource for anyone who registers (for free). You can follow companies; you can set your preferences for verticals and/ or geographies.The Global Gaming Awards, which you run, have become a benchmark for excellence. What makes these awards unique?
You can not influence the results by spending money. You can only be shortlisted if you have achieved something significant. Moreover, we publish this reason so everyone can see they deserve to be shortlisted. The large judging panel is truly gaming experts in the region.Добави файлове
How important are industry awards in driving standards, transparency, and innovation in gaming?
To win a Global Gaming Award means the industry thinks you are the best – this is a true accolade.As a founder and COO, how has your leadership style evolved over the years?
I am good at ideas but less good at implementation, so my style is to surround myself with very able people. Over the years, this has evolved into encouraging employees to take initiative, solve problems, and come up with their own ideas.What personal achievement are you most proud of so far in your career?
Balance, it is something I focus on every day.Where do you see gaming media heading in the next 5–10 years?
One of two media outlets will dominate, and the rest will become irrelevant. AI will destroy the ones that do not do things AI finds difficult.Finally, what advice would you give to emerging leaders and gaming entrepreneurs entering the industry today?
Be brave, work hard, and whatever business you start, it will take 3 times longer than you thought.Добави файлове