Hong Kong-listed Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Ltd (APE) says it has signed a distribution agreement with CountR GmbH, a Germany-based provider of payment automation and cash-handling technology, specialising in the gaming, banking, and retail sectors.
The deal gives APE distribution rights for CountR’s automated cash-handling products across Asian markets and adds cash management systems to the company’s existing gaming portfolio, according to a Tuesday press release.
“Already proven in global market, these kiosks allow players to quickly redeem credits from tickets, chips, and cash, which is planned for Southeast Asia, giving operators a more efficient and streamlined way to manage cash operations,” per the update.
CountR is said to have over 20 years of expertise and more than 10,000 machines deployed across casino resorts, cruise ships, and gaming floors worldwide.
The announcement cited Maria Garcia, executive director and sales director of APE, as saying: “We are truly honoured and excited to be the distributor for CountR across Asia. CountR is widely recognised for its versatile, innovative, and reliable payment solutions in global markets.”
Ms Garcia added: “Through this collaboration and our existing product offerings, we can now provide a broader range of products and services that address most casino operational needs.”
Tamara Sawyer, CountR’s regional sales manager, said in prepared remarks: “Partnering with APE opens the door to Asia’s fast‑growing casino market. Together, we’re ready to bring proven innovation to the region and unlock new opportunities for growth.”
The move follows APE’s recent launch of BEE Macau, described by the company as Macau’s first local playing card manufacturing facility. The two deals form part of a wider strategy to build a more comprehensive product offering for casino operators, according to APE.
APE said its business portfolio now includes electronic gaming equipment such as slot machines and electronic table games; table game products including playing cards, dealing shoes and smart ‘trend’ boards; and cash management systems supplied through the CountR partnership.
The company stated that the broader product mix would allow it to serve both large-scale casino resort operators and smaller gaming venues.
Herman Ng, chief executive and executive director of APE, said the company was repositioning its business model.
“APE’s strategy is shifting from being primarily a supplier of electronic gaming equipment to delivering comprehensive gaming operation solutions,” Mr Ng observed.
“The new model focuses on integration, cost efficiency and flexibility, allowing APE to serve both large integrated resort casinos and smaller niche casino floors effectively,” he added.
