David Orrick, passed away at age 75. He was a journalist specializing in covering gaming machines and sports betting for more than 30 years. A rally driver, Orrick entered the industry in 1995, running EuroSlot magazine on behalf of World’s Fair, then owner of Coin Slot.
So he went on to handle press and advertising matters for a number of major slot machine suppliers.
He spent periods in Spain with Recreativos Franco and Unidesa, then went to Novomatic and, finally, spent three years directing sector relations for the Gauselmann Group company Merkur.
David Orrick’s career in the games industry
Orrick, who lived in Newton-in-Furness, near Barrow (England), lost his wife, Ruth, in 2015. He is survived by his stepson, James.
Merkur’s international chief executive, Athanasios “Sakis” Isaakidis, worked with David for a few years. Sakis commented on the exceptional value that David brought to the Merkur brand.
He said: “With his extensive experience in gaming and his understanding of market needs, David Orrick fulfilled not only his job description, but also played a significant role in many different decision-making processes within our group.”
“He was a valuable and respected person, who was always available to give his opinion and bring his vision. David Orrick has always considered his professional roles at Merkur as his passion and not just his job,” continued Isaakidis.
“Few knew the world of games and its protagonists like David Orrick. He has distinguished himself with vast experience and unparalleled knowledge in his field. And this has contributed greatly to strengthening our presence on the international market,” said Jürgen Stühmeyer, member of the board of management at Merkur Sales.
“He was a valued and important companion – both within the Merkur Group and, especially, across the international gaming industry media landscape.”
Merkur and the legacy left by the executive
Merkur released an official statement: “The entire Merkur family, as well as the board members of the Merkur Group and the management of Merkur GmbH, are united in deep mourning. We extend our sincere thanks to David Orrick for his extraordinary commitment. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those who were close to him.”
Clarion Gaming’s Stuart Hunter added: “David Orrick was a formidable personality, highly knowledgeable of the industry and respected internationally. When he shared his opinion, you listened and took note of his insights. David Orrick was a fountain of knowledge and was extremely kind and generous to Clarion and to me personally when I entered the industry.”
