Strategic Review Results in New Roles at Blueprint Operations with Andy Tipple Named as Managing Director

Merkur UK has announced strategic changes at its cabinet and gaming content brand Blueprint Operations. David Purvis, who has led Blueprint to its current status as market-leader in the supply of Category C and B gaming machines across all sectors of the United Kingdom low-stake land-based gaming entertainment industry is taking a Group Strategic Advisor role with responsibility for developing new corporate partnerships. Andy Tipple moves from his position as Head of Product at Merkur’s high street gaming division to become Managing Director at Blueprint Operations.

Announcing the changes, which are effective from September 1, Merkur UK General Manager, Sascha Blodau (pictured) said: “The senior team has undertaken a detailed analysis of the industry and how we believe it will develop in the post-white paper world. This has highlighted a core requirement to actively seek and develop corporate relationships that go beyond the traditional commercial engagement that we have established over the years. We believe these relationships will be with C-level executives not directly connected to the product or service that we provide.

“This will present a completely new dynamic and one that requires fresh conversations exploring longer-term opportunities to drive income from the businesses that our customers operate. David’s detailed knowledge of both the industry and of the Merkur UK business will be invaluable in identifying and developing those strategic pathways that dovetail with our ambitions and our strategy.”

Tipple, who will head the Blueprint Operations business as Managing Director, joins from sister company Merkur Slots and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and insight.

Highlighting the importance of being able to draw on a broad industry perspective, Blodau said: “Whilst maximizing cash box is the key conversation that Blueprint has with its extensive customer base, how that’s achieved is more detailed and involves cabinet design and aesthetics, reliability, menu management, game creation, after-sales support and much more. Fundamentally, it means having a detailed understanding of the customer’s needs. Andy has the knowledge and experience to continue to build on the outstanding success that Blueprint Operations has earned as a result of its diligence, its focus and its commitment to always put the customer front and centre stage.

“I believe that we have an extremely exciting future and both Andy and David will play central roles taking the business to the next level. The United Kingdom is a key market for the group and to maximize the opportunity we need to have the very best people occupying important strategic roles throughout the business.”

“I am pleased to be moving to a new group role and looking forward to the challenges and opportunities this will bring,” Purvis said. “I also wish Andy and the Blueprint Operations team continued success.”