Hospitality sector sees new strategic partnership between key players

Two of the UK’s principal suppliers of gaming machines to the hospitality trade, Bob Rudd and SX Leisure, have joined forces to deliver an industry-leading service to an additional 1,000 pubs nationwide. Inspired Entertainment, Inc, selected the companies to transition out and deliver operational efficiencies and field services, as well as leasing of gaming machines as required to the pub sector. As a result of this transition, both firms have strengthened their position as key players in the hospitality supply chain — with significant business growth and the creation of new jobs are among the key outcomes.  

“It’s been a busy few months, but we couldn’t be happier with how things have gone,” said Nick Rudd, Managing Director, Bob Rudd. “We now supply a significant portfolio of pubs previously supplied by Inspired under mutually beneficial terms, and this has given us the opportunity to bring our service-first model to even more venues. We have had fantastic feedback from customers. It’s a real testament to the dedication of our entire team — both existing staff and new arrivals.”

Nick added: “The move has also strengthened staffing — with new colleagues joining the business — and enhanced our ability to provide responsive, high-quality support nationwide. We’re seeing the benefits of scale without compromising the independent, service-led approach for which the business is known.”

Founded in 1989 by Bob Rudd and still proudly independent and family-run, the company is led by brother-and-sister team Nick and Charlotte Rudd. It continues to provide an impartial, flexible route to the industry’s best-performing machines, offering equipment from all major manufacturers. Bob Rudd has underpinned its position as the UK’s largest independent operator.

Due to a successful collaboration with Inspired, Bob Rudd and SX Leisure have increased their supply capacity by more than 1,800 machines across 1,000 venues, with SX Leisure reporting a 30% uptick in business. Machines leased from Inspired have been fully integrated into an existing network stretching from Northumberland and Cumbria to the the South Coast of England.

“It’s been an exciting challenge for both our existing team and those who’ve joined us during this process,” said Greg Wood, Director at SX Leisure. “The response from both our longstanding clients and new venues has been overwhelmingly positive. Our new colleagues have hit the ground running, and I can’t thank the entire team enough for delivering the full SX Leisure experience at scale.”

With headquarters in Witham and depots in Yeovil and Washington, SX Leisure is well positioned to support its expanding customer base across the South of England. “Our growth has never been taken for granted, and this is just the beginning of the next chapter in SX Leisure’s journey,” added Greg.

“Inspired remains fully committed to the UK pub market, and this collaboration ensures that pubs and customers involved continue to receive the highest-quality games, terminals, service and support.” said Ian Shreeve, VP and GM Gaming Sales UK at Inspired. “This partnership highlights Inspired’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its position as a leader in delivering outstanding gaming experiences.”

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9 April 2026

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