Bingo halls are being lauded as a vital tool in combating the widespread issue of loneliness, as stated by the chief executive of the largest bingo chain in the UK.
Dominic Mansour, the head of Buzz Bingo (previously known as Gala), emphasized the community-building aspect of bingo beyond just playing numbers on a card. He highlighted how bingo fosters connections and offers a secure environment for social interaction.
Despite the positive impact of bingo halls, there has been a notable decrease in their numbers nationwide. Buzz Bingo, which previously had 137 locations, now operates 79 sites, with a significant drop in attendance since the onset of the Covid pandemic.
The overall industry has seen a decline in bingo halls from 335 pre-Covid to 247 currently, a stark decrease from the approximately 635 establishments present before the smoking ban was enforced in 2007. This trend aligns with a general decrease in pub numbers, which also serve as important social spaces for diverse groups of people.
Mansour affirmed that their venues serve as crucial community hubs, acknowledging the challenging operational environment the industry has faced in recent years. A survey conducted by the company revealed that a significant portion of bingo players experienced reduced feelings of loneliness and enhanced social connections after visiting the halls.
Recent research uncovered a concerning trend of loneliness affecting a substantial portion of the UK population, with nearly half of adults and millions experiencing chronic loneliness. Mansour emphasized the essential role bingo plays in addressing isolation and promoting well-being in light of these findings.
Individuals like David Chatfield, Angela Freebury, and Brenda Whitby shared their positive experiences at bingo clubs, highlighting the social atmosphere and sense of community that keeps them coming back regularly.
While popular among older demographics and predominantly women, Buzz Bingo is actively working to attract younger players. However, challenges remain, with many venues in need of refurbishment and substantial fixed costs affecting operations.
The company has allocated £25 million for investment to revitalize clubs, with refurbished locations experiencing increased patronage. The chief executive of The Bingo Association emphasized the dual appeal of winning money and socializing as key motivations for players.
Amid discussions of potential tax hikes on gambling operations, Mansour expressed concerns about the impact on bingo halls, citing the critical role of the online segment in supporting the retail arm. Any significant increase in duties could have devastating effects on the industry’s viability.
As speculation mounts regarding gambling tax revisions in the upcoming Budget, the industry braces for potential changes that could significantly impact its operations. Mansour emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance to ensure the continued success of bingo establishments in the UK.