Critical issues of the day will be debated at EAG Bingo Hub argues Bingo Association CEO Miles Baron

Miles Baron, Chief Executive of the Bingo Association, believes the dedicated Bingo Hub at EAG represents an invaluable addition to the at-show experience and one which benefits all sectors of the land based industry.

Looking ahead to January’s event he stated: “The Hub, which the Bingo Association is delighted to support, answers the need for a dedicated feature which reflects bingo’s unique credentials at the same time as accommodating the crossover between Bingo Association and Bacta members as well as their respective supply chains.

“I think it is very important for the low stakes land based industry to have its own showcase, away from the online dominated shows where it is hard to stand out and have an identity. Having a UK-based exhibition which brings different parts of the out of home entertainment sector together in one place provides an opportunity for the cross-fertilisation of ideas and stimulates debate.

“The big topics which are concerning the industry are the delay in implementing the land based gambling reforms that were recommended in the White Paper, the implications of the Budget and how it will add to the rising costs of running a business, proposed changes to Technical Standards and the new methodology which is being used in the Gambling Survey for Great Britain – specifically how that new data is being deployed by academics, journalists and commentators.

“Bingo club operators are dismayed and angered that the promised business growth promoted by the Labour Party both in opposition and in government has been exactly the opposite. No capital equals no investment and I believe that business survival will be the biggest topic on the agenda.”

With Bingo Clubs getting smaller as part of efficiency drives to reduce overheads, operators are placing greater emphasis on technology. Miles Baron confirmed: “Technology on hand held tablets is improving all the time. We are also seeing the growth and expansion of commercial bingo in other types of premises such as holiday parks and high street premises  and again we are seeing developments in technology that make this easier and more cost effective. These technology driven advances in addition to many others will be evident on the EAG Bingo Hub.”

Living up to Bingo’s reputation for being an inherently social activity the Bingo Association has booked Hi Jingo for its after show event on Wednesday 15th from 7pm with the full Bingo show taking place at  8pm . This complimentary event is being supported by the Bingo Association’s suppliers with Poppleston Allen as the headline sponsor. Capacity is limited to 150 and the Bingo Association has confirmed that it will be opening registrations shortly with Bacta members welcome subject to availability. As usual the Bingo Association will be playing bingo from the Hub from 5pm on Tuesday and Wednesday with complimentary drinks for all!

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8 January 2025

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