Collaboration, compliance and crackdown on illegal gambling in focus at Bingo Association AGM

Acting Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, Sarah Gardner, used her address at the Bingo Association AGM 2026 to underline a clear message to the sector: collaboration will remain central to regulation, but enforcement – particularly against illegal gambling – is set to intensify.

Speaking to industry leaders, Gardner emphasised that while the regulatory environment remains challenging, progress is best achieved through partnership rather than opposition. She pointed to the bingo sector as a strong example of constructive engagement, highlighting how collaboration has already delivered tangible results for both operators and consumers. 

A key example has been the joint work between the Commission and the Bingo Association to resolve discrepancies in participation data. By refining questions within the Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB), the two sides have been able to better align national data with real-world venue activity – an outcome Gardner cited as evidence of what can be achieved through open dialogue. 

However, alongside this collaborative tone, Gardner made it clear that compliance expectations remain firm. The Commission is preparing to strengthen its approach to non-compliant gaming machines and will require operators to act swiftly where issues are identified. 

Tackling illegal gambling was another major focus of the speech. Gardner confirmed that new government funding – worth £26m over three years – will support a more robust enforcement strategy, including closer coordination with police and other agencies to address unlicensed activity across both online and land-based markets. 

The address also marked a period of transition for the bingo sector, with Gardner paying tribute to outgoing Bingo Association CEO Miles Baron for his “tireless” work representing operators and fostering a cooperative relationship with the regulator. She also welcomed incoming CEO Nicole Garrett, signalling a desire to maintain that collaborative approach going forward. 

Summing up, Gardner reinforced the Commission’s position: operators willing to engage and comply can expect continued partnership, but those falling short will face increased scrutiny as the regulator sharpens its focus on standards, data and enforcement.

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14 May 2026

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