Bingo life June July 2014

BINGO Issue 013 - June/July 2014 www.bingolife.biz

Crown Bingo A Royal Reception Awaits

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Editorial Editor in Chief: Glyn Thomas Mob: +380 952 705 596 glyn@ace123.com Editor - Andrew Behan abehan@ace123.com Online Bingo Editor - Mark McGuinness mark@ace123.com Associate Editor - Janice Chaka Guadalajara - janice@ace123.com

Correspondents International - Damien Connelly dconnelly@ace123.com

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A show will only become Editorial Policy: The views and opinions expressed in casinoevent life remain the a must attend if principally it views of contributors and do not necessarily delivers what reflect those of thethe editormarket or publishers. The publishers wish to avoid inaccuracies and, whilst needs and that is what we every precaution has been taken to ensure that information in this journal is accurate, strive verycontained hard to provide. no liability is accepted by the editor or publishers EAG International Expocaused. Unless for errors or omissions, however otherwise stated, articles appearing in this was started by BACTA, as publication remain the copyright of the publishers and may for not be reproduced in any form without a show the amusement the publisher’s written consent. and coin-op sectors, run by in the UK by MPC Ltd. thePrinted industry for the industry. issue 012

Editors comment

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ummer is here and the bingo industry in the UK is rejoicing the cut in bingo duty from 20 percent to 10 percent.

The Bingo Association had gathered more than 330,000 petition signatures and the support of a more than 50 MPs for the proposal, which was announced by Chancellor George Osborne in his recent budget.

The sector is looking forward to renewed investment, with the opening of new bingo establishments and innovation. So what does the remainder 2014 hold? For me for it’s the continued growth and convergence of online bingo with that of land based bingo which should be regarded as the true success story of the social gaming scene. Bingo is popular, more socially acceptable, and regarded by most as being on the softer side of the gambling spectrum. It shall push the innovation envelope.

With bingo advertising being so prevalent on mainstream television, combine this with mobile commerce shall continue to drive market accessibility and growth. The hugely popular tablet which is taking more market share of device usage and engagement away from TV’s and laptops as screens of consumer choice – will become the must have companion for bingo players – especially if a major bingo brand brings out its own branded tablet similar to the likes of retailer Tesco’s Hudl. With tablets tumbling in price it could be a possibility similar to all the branded poker sets that entered the shoppers’ realm previously. Just in the way media broadcasters supply digital boxes for platform connectivity and indeed it wasn’t that long ago that certain spread betting companies gave away smartphones, that bingo operators could provide tablets with preloaded software to further entrench the player to the brand – watch this space as you heard it first in BingoLife magazine.

This convergence is already happening as we see more bespoke and dedicated gaming content being deployed on tablets, linked to TV programming content or advertising content in the form of ad breaks to the game play.

Indeed in the UK, Ranks chairman and chief executive officer, Ian Burke, obviously agrees with the tablet and convergence concept as the business has recently introduced playing bingo on tablets. He is quoted as saying, ‘a tablet device requires less concentration and allows players to eat, drink and chat while playing’. This statement of course also holds true for online bingo players. At home in the living room, with the day-time soaps sponsored by major bingo brands seeping into the sub-conscious mind shall only increase the neuron connection with the bingo operator.

So what are you waiting for? Please do get in touch with BingoLife and share your bingo innovation story, we’d love to hear from you.

Mark McGuinness, Online Bingo Editor Mark@ace123.com

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Contents 3 Mark McGuinness Online Editors Comment 5 Guest Editor Foreword

By Kate Chambers, Portfolio Director at Clarion Events 7 Crown Bingo Gary Bell, General Manager, Crown Bingo speaks to Peter White Publisher of Bingo Life 11 Continual Evolution & Development Janice Chaka chats with R Franco CEO Pedro Melendo 16 Boost for UK Bingo Bingo life’s Editor Mark McGuinness chatted recently with Miles Baron, Chief Executive of the Bingo Association to discuss the landmark success of the Boost Bingo Campaign

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17 Expansion on the cards at Praesepe Andrew Behan puts the questions to Mark Jones, Managing Director Mecca 20 Mecca Inspired to be Fun Andrew Behan puts the questions to Mark Jones, Managing Director Mecca Bingo 23 Gala Coral Post Government tax reduction statement 25 ISD 25 years of service and support Glyn Thomas chats to Nick Winslade Managing Director ISD Computer Services 31 The Online Bingo Oscars A look back at the 2014 WhichBingo Awards

The Editorial policy: The views and opinions expressed in bingo life remain principally the views of contributers and do not nessararily reflect those of the editor or publishers.

The publishers whis to avoid inaccuracies and whilst every precaution has been taken to ensure that information contained in this publication is accurate no liability is accepted by the editor or publishers for errors or ommissions however caused.

Unless otherwise stated articles appearing in this publication remain the copyright of the publishers and may not be reproduced in any form without the publishers written consent.

Printed in the UK by MPC Ltd

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Guest Editor Foreword Why freedom is nothing but a chance to be better The bingo industry is well known for having the ability to reinvent itself and to engage with new demographics in compelling ways. I once went to a session of bingo in the dark which was a hybrid of bingo meets night clubbing. Essentially it delivered everything you could look for in a good night out but the experience was totally different to anything I’d been used to.

Delivering new experiences in a compelling way is the challenge facing all marketers whether it’s in bingo or in my business, the events industry.

With EiG, one of the gaming brands in my portfolio, we have undertaken a root and branch overhaul of what it stands for and what it delivers.

The EiG creative theme for 2014 is FREEDOM and with the help of our 70 strong Advisory Board of gaming leaders, EiG has found its voice and become a vibrant, contemporary global gaming space providing attendees with the freedom to think, to explore, and to engage in a way that works for them. There can be no doubt the way business consumes information has changed and EiG is embracing that change.

Like Bingo we also believe that environment and value are essential, which is why we have moved to Berlin and changed the business model, creating a single entry pass which starts at E499 . Freedom resonates with Berlin’s past with historic events such as the 1936 Olympic Games, the Berlin Airlift and most recently the fall of the Berlin Wall. It is also widely recognised as a world leading centre for media, technology and cuttingedge creative industries. It’s a city with a rich history and one whose heart beat is creativity. The venue itself is very Berlin. It’s a space with an industrial past, it’s water-fronted and in fact part of the Berlin wall runs alongside it. It’s definitely not the sterile, purpose-built space commonly associated with traditional conferences Like bingo in the dark, we understand that the new EiG, might not be for everyone. But for those who want to be excited by enquiring minds and believe that conventional thinking is simply a euphemism for lazy thinking, take a look at eigexpo.com, download the EiG agenda and see why we agree with the Albert Camus philosophy that, ‘freedom is nothing but a chance to be better’.

Kate Chambers, Portfolio Director at Clarion Events

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The No. 1 Association for bingo Shaping policy Developing business Driving the industry agenda The Association for all things bingo – working with senior management and operators for more than two decades – successfully promoting and developing the interests of all bingo operators.

For industry news, comment and information on the benefits of membership, visit www.bingo-association.co.uk T 01582 860921

E info@bingo-association.co.uk gambleaware.co.uk

Crown Bingo Gary Bell, General Manager, Crown Bingo speaks to Peter White Publisher of Bingo Life issue 012

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Could we commence this interview with a brief history of Crown Bingo and its various Clubs situated in the South England & Wales.

Crown Bingo is owned and operated by Peter Arnett Leisure. Peter Arnett opened our first bingo club in Gosport, Hampshire in 1968. The company is now owned by his two sons; Peter and Nick and we currently have 5 clubs on the south coast of England: Bognor Regis, Cosham, Gosport, Leigh Park and Portsmouth.

When and why did you decide Gaming was going to be your career?

I first started working for Crown Bingo as a Bingo Assistant to supplement my income whilst at college. I have always enjoyed my time at Crown Bingo and after completing A Levels I moved into management.

How long have you been in Bingo?

I have worked in the industry for 16 years and in my current role as General Manager of the company for 3 years.

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What are some of the aspects of your role you enjoy most as GM ?

The most enjoyable thing about my role is the variety of tasks and challenges I encounter on regular basis; no two days are the same. I am always busy in my work there is always a new challenge on the horizon.

Crown Bingo Clubs offers an extensive repertoire of promotions and incentives how successful have they proven in wining new patrons and retaining existing in this increasingly competitive market, currently prizes range from a Big Cash Prize, Luxury Holiday and Brand New Car. Yes, every year we give away brand new cars and luxury holidays each of our clubs, 20 of our members recently returned from a week in Disneyworld Florida. We also pay-out over ÂŁ200,000 every week across our clubs.

We are one of the few bingo operators that really base our policy on promotions, we always look to boost prize money with extra issue 012

bonuses to increase our members’ enjoyment of their game. We also offer £10 off for all new members as well as using or Maxim membership system to give loyalty vouchers and birthday vouchers to reward regular customers.

Good quality food and bar has been a big contributing factor over the years to the success of Crown Bingo as both play an important part in retaining and winning new members, which the organisation must be very proud of.

Yes, we are very proud of the bar and buffet services that we offer. The bars are heavily subsidised to give the members quality products at very low prices. The buffets prices are also great value, and we always offer freshly cooked, quality food. We believe that members should be well looked after and catering for them with hot, freshly prepared food is a really special aspect at Crown Bingo. issue 012

Technology in Gaming is increasing every year with hand held gaming terminals and high tech integrated entertainment becoming more and more advanced, how is Crown Bingo embracing these new games, is ‘high tech’ the future or does traditional Bingo still form a core fundamental of the land based Bingo operation?

We are very much still traditional bingo clubs and although we do have some of the latest AWP fruit machines we don’t have hand-held electronic terminal, although our minds are always open to new technologies and ideas.

We have however introduced over the last 18 months outside gaming areas where our members can smoke and play bingo and fruit machines; this has proved very popular with our members.

How important a factor do you think entertainment is in broadening your Bingo’s appeal?

I believe that entertaining the members is a 9

vital part of this industry. Some members do play bingo to win big prizes, but many of them come along for the enjoyment of some time out with friends or family. A big challenge for us is making their time enjoyable whether they win or not; it’s easy to get members to return for a future visits if they have just won £1,000 but we also try to focus on the enjoyment of the people that haven’t won. We do customer parties regularly with extra prizes and giveaways, with our staff performing dance routines and similar performances on the stage and all for the customers’ enjoyment.

Would you recommend the Gaming industry as a career, if so what are the qualities you consider important for success in this industry?

Personally I have always enjoyed my time in the industry so yes I would definitely recommend it. The most important qualities are a good work ethic, the ability to think quickly and react quickly to changing demands and most importantly a good personality with a smile of the customers.

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What do you think of the new National Bingo Games?

We play National Game every evening I and on Saturday afternoons in all of clubs, and I think that the latest games from National Game are some of the best that they have introduced in recent years. I am particularly excited at the coming prospect of the National Live games coming later this year. It should be able to offer huge prizes for members and I believe it will be really well received.

And finally what have been your reaction the too much needed tax reduction by the Government.

The reduction in bingo duty form 20% to 10% is one of the best things to happen to the bingo industry for many years. The entire industry, led by the Bingo Association, campaigned tirelessly and the reduction should help to prevent the closure of many clubs across the country in the coming years. Our smallest club at Portsmouth, was due to close in April but the reduction in duty has meant that we are able to keep this club open which is obviously fantastic news for us, the staff and the members. issue 012

Evoluci贸n y Desarrollo Continuos Janice Chaka entrevista a Pedro Melendo, Director de Gesti贸n de R Franco issue 012

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¿Qué aspectos de su actual responsabilidad ha encontrado más satisfactorios y gratificantes?

Es todo un reto y un verdadero orgullo formar parte de una empresa con 49 años de vida y éxitos prolongados, y con un camino por delante verdaderamente apasionante, lleno de desafíos que requieren una puesta en marcha de tecnología realmente innovadora. Es una oportunidad única la de llevar la dirección de una multinacional española de la envergadura de Recreativos Franco. Un nombre referente en el mercado doméstico y verdadero emblema en el mercado internacional. Continuar con el desarrollo de esta empresa, adaptarla a los gustos cambiantes de los clientes y las necesidades de cada momento es una labor emocionante que constituye una motivación creciente cada día.

Entre el repertorio de habilidades y experiencia que usted ha acumulado a lo largo de su trayectoria profesional, y desde el punto de vista de su actual responsabilidad, ¿cuáles considera que le han resultado más enriquecedoras?

R. Franco me ha permitido en estos meses aportar mi experiencia profesional acumulada durante ya muchos años en puestos de responsabilidad, de trabajar con un equipo multidisciplinar con grandes profesionales y dentro de una industria puntera en creatividad, investigación y tecnología. En suma, de seguir contribuyendo al desarrollo y expansión de una gran multinacional que cuenta con una larga trayectoria de liderazgo incuestionable.

Dentro del catálogo de productos de R. Franco, Tombola Roulette ha demostrado ser muy popular, especialmente en el Reino Unido, ¿qué opinion tiene al respecto?

Nuestra Tombola Roulette es un producto único, muy demandado por los principales Casinos de todo el mundo, y el Reino Unido no ha sido una excepción. Tombola Roulette se encuentra en los más afamados y prestigiosos Casinos británicos como son Aspers e Hippodrome. Su tecnología y sus peculiares y atractivas características hacen que destaque y se convierta en un producto estrella con todas 12

las cualidades que ofrece un buen terminal de juego. Sin duda, se trata de uno de los grandes logros y todo un orgullo para nuestra empresa. ¿Cuáles son los productos más novedosos, en lo que se refiere a juegos, muebles y tecnología de los que puede hablarnos en este momento?

Como últimos desarrollos de productos destacamos las dos novedades que están siendo presentadas en las recientes Ferias de juego celebradas por todo el mundo, desde Londres a Macao. Por ejemplo, para Casinos hemos lanzado recientemente el juego que está convirtiendo a Recreativos Franco en referencia de la innovación consagrada al ocio: SIC-BO, el exitoso juego de dados chinos que cuenta con tres dados físicos en tres bombos que conforman el sistema de sorteo.

Además, presentamos un nuevo mueble SLANT TOP con monitor de 26”, un concepto MULTISTATION muy versátil que se presenta en tres modalidades: JUEGO de RULETA con cilindro físico y JUEGO de RULETA con BOMBO de bolas físico. ¿Recreativos Franco desarrolla juegos para el Mercado online?

Actualmente Recreativos Franco está presente en el mercado online español aunque de una manera indirecta a través de nuestro socio Orenes, que es titular de una Licencia otorgada por el Gobierno español para operar en Internet juegos de Casino, Bingo, Póquer y Apuestas. ¿Cuál es la próxima Feria del sector a la que acudirá R. Franco como expositor y en la que los lectores de nuestra revista podrán conocer todo el catálogo de sus productos?

La más reciente muestra donde hemos expuesto nuestras máquinas ha sido en la Feria de Macao, hace apenas unos días.

Se trata de un lugar emblemático para Recreativos Franco y estratégico como centro del mercado asiático, tan importante para nosotros. Como próxima gran cita, nuestra empresa acudirá a ICE 2015, donde Recreativos Franco ya ha estado en ediciones anteriores con stand propio. Aparte de este marco tan issue 012

relevante, nuestra empresa seguirá estando presente en todas aquellas Exposiciones y Congresos con muestras de producto que se desarrollan en nuestro país de origen, España. Además, uno de los propósitos que emprenderá en breve Recreativos Franco es el desarrollo de acciones comerciales y presentaciones de productos en mercados locales españoles y extranjeros. Creemos que el contacto más cercano con el cliente, el acercamiento del producto a su región, ha sido clave en nuestro posicionamiento líder simultaneado con la asistencia a los grandes eventos internacionales.

Y, para concluir esta entrevista, ¿cuáles son sus principales objetivos para 2014 y a medio plazo?

Para nosotros es prioritario e importantísimo

permanecer atentos a la evolución del mercado y de nuestros clientes, y adelantarnos incluso a sus preferencias. Estar a la vanguardia de la tecnología es indispensable. Nos avalan décadas de éxitos en el mercado español, nuestros productos son una referencia y nuestro nombre es todo un mensaje de rentabilidad y éxito. Por todo ello, es primordial continuar reforzando este posicionamiento en España. Al mismo tiempo, compaginar nuestro desarrollo imparable en el mercado internacional, siempre cambiante, y mantener y aumentar nuestro prestigio gracias a productos vanguardistas que indudablemente nos abrirán las puertas de otros mercados en los que Recreativos Franco aún no ha entrado.

Sin duda, el afianzamiento, el reforzamiento y la apertura de los mercados son los tres caminos a seguir.

Left to right: Jesús Franco, President alongside Pedro Melendo

Continual Evolution & Development Janice Chaka chats with R Franco CEO Pedro Melendo issue 012

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What aspects of your role are you finding most satisfying and rewarding.

Being part of such a successful 49 years old company with an ever exciting way to go, full of challenges which require the implementation of innovating technology, is a real pleasure and very rewarding to. It is a unique opportunity to manage a far-reaching Spanish multinational company such as R. Franco, a reference in the domestic market and a true symbol in the international market.

To continue the development of this company, making it become adapted to the changing tastes of our customers and to changing needs is an exciting task and a growing incentive day after day.

What would you say are amongst the repertoire of skills and experience you have you gained over the years from your previous roles that you have employed most over the last 9 months.

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Over the last few months, R. Franco provided me with the opportunity of contributing my professional experience accumulated for many years in decision-making positions, of working with a multidisciplinary team comprising top professionals within a leading industry in creativity, research, technology. In sum, to keep on contributing towards the development and expansion of a long-established large multinational of an unquestionable leadership.

The Franco Tombola Roulette has proven popular especially in the UK which must be very pleasing to the organisation?

Our Tombola Roulette is a unique product, highly demanded by the main casinos throughout the world and the United Kingdom was no exception. Tombola Roulette may be found in the most famous and prestigious British casinos, such as Aspers and Hippodrome. Its technology and singular, issue 012

attractive features make it stand out and become the star, with all the qualities offered by a wonderful game terminal. It is, no doubt, one of our best achievements and pride.

What are the latest developments that you can announce with new games and cabinets along with systems?

The latest product developments include the two innovations which are being presented at the recent trade shows held throughout the world, from London to Macau. For example, for casinos we recently launched the game which is making R. Franco a reference in innovation dedicated to leisure: SIC-BO, the successful game of Chinese dice with three physical dice in three drums which make the drawing system. In addition, we are presenting a slant top cabinet with a 26� screen, a very versatile multi-station concept supplied in three modes: a roulette game with a physical cylinder and a roulette game with a physical drum.

What games for the online gaming market does R Franco currently have for that division of the Gaming industry?

R. Franco is currently present in the Spanish on-line market although indirectly, through our partner Orenes, which is holder of a licence granted by the Spanish government in order to operate casino, bingo, poker and betting games through the Internet.

Where is the next exhibition you are exhibiting at that readers can see all the latest games and cabinets for themselves?

The most recent show where we exhibited our machines was the Macau trade show, held issue 012

just a few days ago. It is a symbolic place for R‌ Franco and a strategic location as the core of the Asian market, which is so important to us. Our next great date will be attending the ICE 2015, which Re. Franco attended in prior editions with our own stand. In addition to this highly relevant framework, our Company will remain present at all exhibitions and congresses showing our products developed in our home country: Spain. Furthermore, one of the targets R. Franco will aim at in the near future is the development of commercial activities and product presentation in local Spanish and foreign markets. We believe that our contact with our customer, making the product closer to the regions, has been key for our leading positioning combined with attendance to the most important international events.

And finally what are your main goals for 2014 and beyond?

It is a priority and ever important for us to remain attentive to the evolution in the market, to our customers, and to anticipate their wishes. Being at the forefront in technology is imperative. Our success in the Spanish market is our guarantee, our products are a reference and our name is a message of profitability and success.

For this reason, we need to keep on strengthening this positioning in Spain.

And, at the same time, we need to combine our unstoppable development in the ever-changing international market and to retain and increase our prestige with stateof-the-art products which, no doubt, will open access to other markets where R. Franco has not been so far. Market consolidation, strengthening and opening are no doubt the three roads to be followed.

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Boost for UK Bingo Bingo life’s Editor Mark McGuinness chatted recently with Miles Baron, Chief Executive of the Bingo Association to discuss the landmark success of the Boost Bingo Campaign How’s life since the Chancellors decision to cut Bingo Duty to 10%?

The Boost Bingo Campaign has been a tremendous success. Clearly the decision by the George Osborne, the Chancellor, to reduce the duty to 10% has been transformational for our members.

Not only did the campaign galvanize the industry with over a third of a million signatures backing the petition across Britain.

It was supported by more the 50 MPs shows the depth, passion and feeling across the population, but demonstrates that ‘coming together and working together’ can achieve goals and positive change.

In some ways the real job now starts in earnest, would you agree?

Absolutely, the reduction in taxation is a great starting point to move the industry forward during the current economic challenges.

Bingo operators identified as part of the submission to the Chancellor, a programme 16

of investment that would be freed up if we achieved a 5% tax reduction.

Now with the 10% reduction, operators will be relooking at their investment and modernisation plans, to further stimulate the industry.

We are going to see program of investment and modernization over the midterm, with new products being introduced to further broaden the appeal of bingo across the population groups. What shall the future hold for the industry?

Bingo is a very popular every-green industry and highly socialable game. Its popularity is increasing across a greater variety of premises. These new bingo premises will be entertainment destinations for patrons to enjoy the latest technologies and compete with other leisure entertainment discretionary spend. Therefore there is no reason why as we continue to work together as industry that land based bingo can be one of Britain’s top entertainment destinations and pursuits.

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Expansion on the cards at Praesepe Andrew Behan puts the questions to Mark Jones, Managing Director Mecca What are the implications of the Governments tax reduction The implications are significant and of course welcome. Essentially they have breathed life into what had become a moribund sector of the gaming entertainment industry. It will mean that companies like ours will be able to justify investment programmes across issue 012

the board in terms of infrastructure, new technology and customer facilities. If you take our club at Cricklewood as an example it will allow us replace the mechanised cash bingo – which is the biggest in the country – at a cost of some £500,000. We also have 80 Bingo Clubs on the High Street and it will allow us to roll that concept out. Every sector 17

needs investment in order to raise standards and to improve the customer experience and I am sure that the Chancellor will have saved a number of smaller independent clubs from calling house for the very last time and for that he is to be congratulated. On a broader political scale, it is essential that we have decision makers and regulators who understand the dynamics of this industry.

The challenge is to keep them on-side through the maintenance of an open dialogue and to ensure that the sector is never again a victim of poor legislation founded upon ignorance.

How was 2013 and how do you see 2014 shaping up?

Weather is pivotal for the entire leisure industry and in 2013 we were hit by snow in January and a very hot summer – both of which were bad for business. Hopefully 2014 will be consistently moderate for everyone in the sector. In terms of legislation we have the £100 jackpot on Cat C, the benefits of which are working their way through. There is more confidence in the economy which I believe is beginning to permeate society and the demographic that we look to and there are signs that wages will start to outpace inflation thereby increasing levels of disposable leisure spend. 2015 is an election year and call me cynical, but few governments will want to be fighting an election against the backdrop of economic austerity. For all of these reasons I feel confident that 20014 will prove to be something of a ‘bounce back’ year.

How much did you raise for charity & how is the money spent?

Our charity partner is CHIPS which was born out of the gaming industry and whose sole aim is to purchase bespoke powered wheel chairs for those children for whom the state cannot or will not support and who have no other means of purchasing them. Under the charismatic leadership of Linda Lindsay it has raised in excess of £1m with every single penny going towards the purchase of chairs – significantly no expenses or administration 18

costs are taken out of the fund raising. Each bespoke powered chair costs in the region of £4,000 to buy but has an impact on the lives of each recipient family which can only be described as price less. We have made over 40 powered wheel chair presentations to families and each and every presentation is a truly humbling experience. All 1,600 members of the Praesepe team have taken CHIPS to their hearts and are involved in the fund raising initiatives which take place throughout the country and at every one of our venues. The team sets itself some harsh targets one of which is to surpass the £15,000 generated at last year’s Five-A-Side Football Tournament and Family Fun Day which we stage annually at Milton Keynes. I am extremely proud of what they have already and what they continue to achieve on behalf of those in society who are less fortunate.

What were the standout products / games / systems, on show at EAG & ICE that impressed you most and why?

There shouldn’t be too many surprises for us at the shows as we have an extremely close working relationship with the entire manufacturing sector. In terms of stand out products, I was impressed by the B3 cabinets form Blueprint and their new suite of Cat C games. Astra’s I-promo was launched at ICE and we have been working closely with FutureLogic on TITO systems. From an amusements perspective there were some interesting pushers on show at EAG. How has the launch of the new National Game been received at your clubs?

It has gone down very well: every one of our customers in our clubs have embraced what is a tried and tested format. We remain very positive about it.

Is 2014 a year of consolidation or is the operation looking at expansion?

We are a very ambitious company and we are constantly looking at opportunities to expand within the United Kingdom and to bring our unique brand of bingo and gaming entertainment to a larger audience. issue 012

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Mecca Inspired to be Fun Andrew Behan puts the questions to Mark Jones, Managing Director Mecca Bingo

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fter raising over £1 million for Marie Curie Cancer Care, Mecca was delighted to announce its new charity partnership with Carers Trust.

Launched on the 14th February by Coronation Street star Antony Cotton at Mecca Bolton, all of Rank’s Mecca and Grosvenor clubs across the country took part in a whole host of fund-raising activities.

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Dedicated Rank Cares grant funds have been set up to support unpaid carers across the UK with the money we raise: Essentials Fund – providing basic household equipment, such as washing machines, to carers who are experiencing financial hardship Inspire to Be Fund – enabling carers to gain new skills Take a Break Fund – giving carers time out issue 012

from their caring role to relax and recharge their batteries.

Commenting on the partnership Antony Cotton said, “I am delighted to launch the new partnership between the Rank Group Carers Trust. I now that caring for someone 24/7 can be really hard, tiring and draining and cause financial hardship. It is really good to hear that the money raised will be given out locally in grants to help unpaid carers take breaks and purchase equipment that will help to make a difference in their everyday lives. “ Thea Stein, Chief Executive of Carers Trust, said, “There are around seven million unpaid carers in the UK who could easily go unnoticed and unsupported. But the time and effort that employees at Rank have pledged to give will make a huge difference to carers’ lives and the people they care for.”

So far Mecca has contributed to raising an impressive £190,000 for the Carers Trust.

What have been the implications of the tax reduction on Mecca Bingo and how it will affect the organisations plans for 2014 and beyond?

Everyone across Mecca was delighted at the Chancellor’s decision to cut bingo duty to 10% and it will give us the opportunity to invest in the business that previously would not have been financially viable.

As we committed to the Government, we will be investing in new bingo clubs with at least one new flat floor club. However we will also be taking this opportunity to future proof our business by conducting extensive consumer research into what the bingo club of the future should look at as well as looking at smaller formats, potentially on the high street.

The reduction will also enable us to invest in Mecca Max. Not only will we be able to provide more units to each club, but we will also be able to upgrade the experience. Slots is another area of our retail business that we will be focusing on with considerable investment in server based gaming.

2014/15 will also see us continuing to focus on the digital side of our business and we will continue to encourage customers to play crosschannel. This number has doubled over the last 3 years but there is still a wealth of opportunity to issue 012

encourage our retail customers to play on-line or on their mobile and vice versa. Initiatives we have introduced to encourage this cross-over include the opportunity to win online and cash out in club and we also incentivise new online customers to visit their local retail club by providing them with a free £10 retail voucher when they register.

Finally we will continue to invest in new technology. We will be launching a new ipad app later this year will give us a major strategic advantage in the marketplace.

It is this continuous drive for improvement that has led to us winning two prestigious awards this year. At the International Gaming Awards we were voted Online Bingo Operator of the Year and we also won the award for Best Mobile Bingo Experience in the WhichBingo Awards.

With the new point of consumption tax being introduced for on-line operators later this year, analysts predict that the number of online bingo operators will reduce dramatically and we are well positioned to take advantage of the consolidation in the marketplace.

How has the launch of the new National Game been received at your clubs?

Mecca is a very keen supporter and participant of The National Game. We have been instrumental in the development of the National Game mechanic through participation in the development group and providing customer insights information to ensure that the new mechanic is attractive to players and we are delighted that it is proving to very popular with our customers. .

Have you observed any new trends building for popularity for new games that have or could be brought into either or both the land and online operations?

Mecca are continually looking at new games and formats for both online and retail clubs; success has been gained by transporting the successful Cashline game onto online from retail and by leveraging the liquidity from retail to enable online to offer the popular ‘Mecca Cash’ jackpot.

Further developments are being worked on with ‘Pick Your Own Numbers’ games soon to be introduced into retail clubs.

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39-year-old’s named John or Sarah from Edinburgh consider themselves luckiest people in Britain Research identifies the nation’s ultimate lucky profiles

E

ver wondered what luck looks like?

According to research out today, people called John or Sarah consider themselves the luckiest people in the country, they average 39 years old, live in Edinburgh with 1 or 2 children and make love 2.31 times a week.

The study commissioned by leading entertainment brand Mecca Bingo, delved into the lifestyle of over 1,800 people, reveals that 58% of the UK population consider themselves lucky in life. When it comes to the ultimate lucky male, those called John come up trumps, followed by David and Michael.

For women, Sarah and Claire just pip Emma to the top spot. The optimum age considered lucky is 39 years and five months and typically, the luckiest of individuals are in a relationship (83%) and are proud pet owners (67%).

Delving a little deeper into the traits of those Brits who consider themselves most lucky, the research identified lucky males are most likely to own a dog (37%), and over a quarter admit they are in a better job than they deserve (27%). They also keep busy in the bedroom, having sex 134 times a year with a partner who is on average 6 months younger than them.

They also openly confess they are punching well above their weight, with 79% believing their partner to be more attractive than them.

Of women who consider themselves lucky, over half live in a house with a white door (51%) and the majority prefer to own a cat (36%) than a dog. Interestingly, nearly a quarter of lucky women have a younger partner (22%) and are almost as active as men when it comes to sex, 22

doing it on average 110 times a year or 2.12 times a week.

When it comes to life events, almost half of those who consider themselves lucky have never been seriously ill (43%), over a quarter have won more than £100 in a prize draw, lottery or game of bingo and almost a third have never received a parking ticket (31%).

Dr Rebecca Spelman, psychologist comments: “Being classed as lucky is a question of perspective. It’s people’s thoughts and behaviours that influence their chances of success, which impact on how lucky they perceive themselves to be. They are more likely to give things a try and make good calculated risks.”

Those who see themselves as less fortunate are typically named Sue or Paul, aged 43 years old and live in Bristol in a home with a brown or wooden door. Sex is sadly impacted too, with almost half of those that consider themselves unlucky not having sex at all (45%) which may be to do with the fact that unlucky people are twice as likely to be single. However, unlucky people are also much less likely to take part in superstitious acts. Two in five (42%) say they have never done anything superstitious in a bid to improve their luck.

Indeed, two thirds (61%) are more than happy to walk under a ladder!

Mark Jones, of Mecca Bingo, explains: “It’s great to see the nation’s habits when it comes to luck and it’s very positive that the majority think of themselves as being lucky. For those that don’t, there is room for improvement! It seems it’s not luck of the Irish but luck of the Scots!”

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Gala Coral statement post Government Tax reduction

A

s the largest UK bingo operator with 135 clubs, Gala Bingo is in a strong position in a market that is returning to growth. Bingo remains a very popular pastime with 43 million admissions to clubs across England, Scotland and Wales last year. Trading for the 16 weeks to 18 January 2014, showed that Gala Bingo grew its profit by 22% on the prior year and admissions to its clubs were up 2%.

The recent reduction in Bingo Duty from 20% to 10% is a great boost for the industry and will dramatically improve cash flow, enabling investment to retain existing customers and attract new ones. Over the next three years we will refurbish a significant amount of our estate and we will build one new club in Southampton.

It also means that we can continue to bring our customers the best prizes for the lowest prices and that this can remain a permanent part of the Gala Bingo buzz�. issue 012

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ISD 25 years of service and support Glyn Thomas chats to Nick Winslade Managing Director ISD Computer Services Nick it has been a while since we’ve spoken, how is business in 2014 for ISD? This year has been another great year for ISD. This is our 25th year providing products and services to the Bingo and Casino industry.

We’ve been profitable each year and this year is no exception. ISD’s financial year end is August and we’re on target to grow our top line by over 30%. We continue to see high demand for our products and services.

Marketing systems have gone through a major revamp this year. In addition to updating the user interface to give a modern sharp ‘look and feel’ we’ve added many new features. These include the ability to capture data from more external sources (admissions, book sales, gaming machines and concessions), better targeting and scheduling of campaigns and an omnichannel approach to customer communications.

For organisations not familiar with ISD Computer Services would you just remind of us your products and services?

Primarily, we consider ourselves to be a software development company though this belies the fact that most of our revenues now come from licensing our Membership, Direct Marketing and Cash Management software, from SMS messaging services and from our digital printing partnerships. Software development is still the core of what we do and still makes up a major proportion of the company’s revenues.

All of our products are web based applications which can be accessed using a web browser on any internet computer or tablet. The applications and data can be hosted by ISD or our clients can chose to provide their own hosting.

The Membership System and Direct

What are the key features that have made your solutions so popular?

Nowadays it’s not just your products and services that have to be popular, maintaining respect and integrity and differentiating yourself in the market place is essential and we do this by providing great customer service and support to our clients and always aim to go the extra mile. In terms of the products and services, I believe the key elements to their popularity are ‘ease of use’, robustness, reliability, making them feature rich and scalable so they can be used by small companies as well as the largest companies.

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What do you see as the major trends in 2014/2015?

The market has been vibrant this year. I mentioned omnichannel marketing earlier 25

and certainly the marketing strategies of many companies have gone through a major change with significant increases in marketing spend. While many sectors continue to focus their marketing efforts and rewards on new customers, the gaming sector has a greater balance between existing customer retention and attracting new customers.

Given that on average 96% of daily revenue will come from existing customers, maximising business intelligence on all aspects of customer behaviour has become the major goal of most operators. Business intelligence and maximising profits from existing customers are the major impetuses behind the latest developments in our Membership and Direct Marketing products.

While we’ve seen increases in SMS messaging for the past few years, this year we’ve also seen a major surge in Direct Mail.

The perceived reduction in junk mail coupled with more innovative and dynamic mailing templates have rejuvenated Direct Mail as a marketing channel. We’ve seen an increase in the use of online photo and video services like Vine and Instagram and a number of operators are using links imbedded in SMS messaging to drive smart phone users to richer photo and video content.

On the technology front, many websites (our own included) have seen the growth in usage of tablet devices to the extent that connections from tablets frequently exceed PC connections. Clearly users are becoming more mobile and ISD will continue to ensure our products and services are available across the full spectrum of devices.

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Where do you see the growth for ISD over the next few years, what are you focussing on?

In a software development company there is always plenty to do. Nonetheless, mobile apps will be the main focus for development over the next year. This is the area where we see the biggest demand from our clients. In addition to providing easier access to data and interactive marketing for operators, we’ll developing apps to allow their customers to access information services, advertising and mainstream and location based offers.

The Cash Management product will have a major revamp over the next year bringing the user interface up to the same specification as our Membership and Direct Marketing products. We’ll be providing greater flexibility for operators to add and change reporting elements and making it easier to add new cash sources and movements.

The Membership and Direct Marketing products will continue to evolve. To accommodate the demand from other sectors we’ll be adding subscription and renewals to the Membership System.

The campaign management side of the Direct Marketing product will be enhanced to make it easier for operators to incorporate social media and allow the same communications to be sent to all channels simultaneously. As we expand the business into other sectors, we’ll be incorporating cloud services to allow entry level access to our products and services in addition to our standard hosting options.

In summary, mobile apps, continual investment in the existing products and greater integration with social media are the major elements on the roadmap. Another busy year ahead. issue 012

It’s in our DNA!

futurelogic-inc.com/DNA

Microgaming Manx Cancer Help Golf Day Raises Over £8,000

T

he inaugural Microgaming Manx Cancer Help Golf Day held last Thursday (19th June), raised a magnificent £8,170 for the charity.

Eighteen teams took on the 18 holes of Mount Murray Golf Club and the AM-AM competition proved even hotter than the weather. At the finish, two were tied on 118 points with the winners - Continent8 Technologies – claiming the spoils for winning on the back nine, with Lloyds TSB in second and Barclays Bank in third on 114 points.

The fun-filled afternoon was spiced-up even further by the inclusion of a ‘Wild Ball‘, which proved decisive in the end with the winners beating their rivals due to the double points available. As well as heaping more pressure on the players, the Wild Ball also provided some welcome funds to Manx Cancer Help as only three teams returned to the clubhouse with both allocated Wild Balls, with 15 teams making donations due to their waywardness.

Buchanan MINI generously offered a brand new MINI One as a prize if anyone was skilled or lucky enough to get a hole in one! However whilst six spot prizes were claimed, nobody managed to ace the 11th hole. Rob Gardner playing for the Stewart Clague Services team came agonisingly close, but his well-aimed shot fell a few feet short of the hole.

Manx Cancer Help’s joint patron, former Superbike World Champion James Toseland, joined Microgaming’s team and admitted to not having picked up a club for three years due to a wrist injury, which led to lots of high-spirited jesting throughout the day.

After a buffet in the clubhouse, the prizes were presented with one lucky player winning a power caddy in the heads and tails The winning team Continent8 Technologies competition. at the prize presentation. Left to right: Nobody went home Andrew Booth; CEO of Manx Cancer Help, empty handed as Andrea Chambers; Nick Nally; Stephen Gandy; Paul Cowell and Manx Cancer Help Microgaming kindly joint patron, James Toseland provided high quality goody bags for everyone who participated.

Roger Raatgever, CEO of Microgaming said: “For a charity golf day to raise over £8,000 is fantastic. I think everyone who took part on the day would agree that it was a huge success; a brilliant round of golf for a very worthwhile cause. A massive thank you to the organisers and all of the companies that entered a team and helped to raise such a huge amount. Manx Cancer Help will benefit greatly from this donation.”

Andrea Chambers CEO of Manx Cancer Help commented: “What a fabulous first golf event! Thank you to Microgaming not only funding the entire event but for rolling their sleeves up on the day and helping with the event set-up, refreshments and prize giving. Microgaming kindly donated corporate tickets to any Chelsea match in the 2014/2015 season, which raised a whopping £2,000 in the auction! Thanks also to Buchanan MINI and Allyn Laing at the Mount Murray Golf Shop for their support, as well as everyone who took part in helping to raise so much money. It will go a long way in assisting us to maintain and develop the support and services we offer to those affected by a cancer diagnosis.”

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08/07/2014 10:32

SG Gaming Extends JenningsBet Agreement to 2018 New Deal will see Infinity® Cabinet Rolled Out to Estate

L

ondon – July 10th, 2014 – SG Gaming, a division of Scientific Games Corporation (NASDAQ: SGMS), announced today that it has extended its agreement with JenningsBet, the independent bookmaker. The four-year deal lengthens the 14year partnership between the two companies until July 2018.

As part of the extension, the entire JenningsBet estate will receive SG Gaming’s Infinity® terminals, which offers JenningsBet customers an enhanced playing experience through its 21.5” HD screen, an upgraded sound system, and an interactive video button panel. SG Gaming was the first machines provider to introduce a video button panel into the UK Licensed Betting Office sector two years ago.

The ongoing partnership means JenningsBet will continue to offer customers access to content developed by SG Gaming’s in-house development team, as well as new titles from its sister company, WMS Gaming, ultimately providing customers a leading gaming machine offer. The SG Connect division of SG Gaming, a field-based services division which provides end-to-end support service, will continue to provide self-service betting terminals to the JenningsBet estate.

Greg Knight, Managing Director of JenningsBet, said, “Our partnership with SG Gaming has been important to the growth and success of JenningsBet over the past 14 years.

SG Gaming has always been our machine provider of choice – not just because of our long standing relationship, but also because of their innovative content, popular titles and cabinet selection.”

Phil Horne, Group Managing Director of SG Gaming U.K., said, “JenningsBet has been a partner since 2001, and is the largest independent estate in which we operate our terminals. Our relationship goes all the way back to 2001, which makes them one of our longest-serving customers. I am thrilled that we will continue to work with JenningsBet over the coming years. The partnership has been a success because we have established a terrific mutual understanding, which enables us to deliver first-class content and terminals to the JenningsBet estate.”

Julian Knight, Managing Director of JenningsBet, said, “SG Gaming’s services have proved vital to our business, in particular the first-class operational support they provide us. Their marketing and promotional support has also been invaluable. I am confident SG Gaming will continue to be the best partner for our business and will help us achieve our targets over the coming years.”

Horne added, “SG Gaming is proud to be a champion of independent Licensed Betting Office operators such as JenningsBet. More than any other provider, we know they value a complete support package to complement the terminals we provide. Installation of the Infinity cabinets to the JenningsBet estate is scheduled to be completed by July 2014, and we will work closely with JenningsBet to provide a staff training programme, and marketing support to promote the launch of the new machines.”

SG Gaming is a champion of independent Licensed Betting Office operators, such as JenningsBet, and offers end-to-end solutions including training and marketing support, and support services.

issue 012

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The Online Bingo Oscars

F

A look back at the 2014 WhichBingo Awards

ounded by Phil Fraser in 2001, WhichBingo (www.whichbingo. co.uk) has operated an annual poll of online bingo players for over a decade. Previous recipients of this ‘Site of the Year’ award have included the likes of Mecca Bingo, Sun Bingo and Jackpotjoy.

In 2014 the ‘Site of the Year’ awards were re-launched as the ‘WhichBingo Awards’, with the purpose of creating a bigger and better awards event for a changing online bingo industry. The awards process was completely revamped, with six new categories added and the introduction of a thorough nominations and shortlisting round before the main voting took place. issue 012

This new awards structure was a huge success, with over 1,800 nominations received from online bingo players and industry, and then a staggering 17,000 player votes cast during the main voting stage.

Over 150 online bingo industry professionals were in attendance for the exclusive awards presentation which took place in London on May 15th, which was held at Westminster’s iconic Millbank Tower.

This stunning location provided guests with breathtaking panoramas of the London skyline, overlooking the River Thames and the Palace of Westminster. The event was sponsored by prepayment solutions giant paysafecard, with networking drinks provided 31

by Live Bingo Network.

A total of 10 awards were given out on the night, with Gamesys celebrating a total of five awards, including Best Online Bingo Site for Jackpotjoy and Best Online Bingo Chat Team for Sun Bingo.

Mecca Bingo were rewarded for their excellent work on their mobile bingo app, picking up the award for Best Mobile Bingo Experience. Paddy Power Bingo walked away with the new Most Socially Responsible award. Virtue Fusion, who provide the software for both sites, were awarded the Best Online Bingo Software gong.

2014 WhichBingo Award Winners • Best Online Bingo Site: Jackpotjoy • Best New Online Bingo Site: Bubble Bonus Bingo • Best Mobile Bingo Experience: Mecca Bingo • Most Socially Responsible Bingo Site: Paddy Power Bingo • Best Boutique Online Bingo Site: Iceland Bingo 32

• Best Online Bingo Software: Virtue Fusion • Best Online Bingo TV Ad: Sun Bingo • Online Bingo Game of the Year: Game Show Bingo - Jackpotjoy • Best Online Bingo Chat Team: Sun Bingo • Best Online Bingo Promotion: Win a Fiat 500 - Jackpotjoy Full results of the public voting can be found at www.whichbingo.co.uk/awards/winners/ “The new WhichBingo Awards have blown every other awards poll we’ve ever done completely out of the water.” said awards organiser Wayne Howe.

“In terms of the amount of sites who got behind the awards, the number of players who voted and the industry turnout on the awards night itself, it has exceeded all of our expectations.”

“Our aim for these awards was to produce an industry award that delivered real value to the winners, deliver a great awards night to also to raise the profile of our brand, and we believe we’ve done just that. The feedback issue 012

we’ve received from the industry, and notably those who turned up for the awards night, has been overwhelmingly positive, even from those brands who failed to pick up an award at the end of it all.”

“Our aim now is to continue the good work we’ve done on these awards, and make them even better next year. We believe that now we’ve established the new format for the awards and everyone has seen just how much of an effort we’ve put into it, we’ll see even more operators getting behind the awards next year and it will go from strength to strength.”

Players vote Playtech as clear winner at WhichBingo Awards 16 May 2014 – Playtech, the international designer, developer and licensor of software for the online, mobile, TV and land-based gaming industry, is pleased to announce that it was awarded the coveted ‘Best Online Bingo Software’ at the 2014 WhichBingo Awards.

Playtech prides itself on offering the best bingo offering in the industry and operates the industry’s largest bingo network. Virtue Fusion, the bingo brand of Playtech, has won numerous awards reflecting the continued success of their product, with this latest accolade voted for by the people that really matter – the players.

The 11th annual WhichBingo Awards are the premier awards event for the UK online bingo industry. Its aim is to reward and recognise the very best in online bingo.

Previously known as the ‘Site of the Year Awards’, this year the event organisers revolutionised its entire awards process from the ground up, introducing a new nominations 34

round, 6 new award categories and an exclusive awards presentation event for industry guests in Central London.

Amongst the finalists, Playtech powered 11 of the 35 bingo brands that were shortlisted, whilst in the ‘Online Game of the Year’ category, which aims to recognise the best bingo variant game, Playtech developed 5 of the 7 shortlisted games.

Playtech has a unique offering, built on a platform with a proven track record. With cross-product and cross-platform capabilities it allows players to move across products and platforms using a single login, ensuring the ‘on the go’, ‘on the sofa’, ‘at your desk experience’ are the same.

This award success comes hot on the heels of Playtech rolling out its new tablet offering for bingo. Designed specifically for tablet screens, this dedicated player interface brings all the features of Playtech’s desktop product to life on tablet devices. With access to bingo, chat and sidegames on screen all at once, this optimised offering tailored specifically for the ever growing number of tablet users, makes Bingo play much more engaging, smooth and fun. This has led to Playtech licensees experiencing huge take up, helping them win market share and exceed desktop in new registration numbers.

Daniel Phillips, Virtue Fusion COO, commented, “We are extremely proud that players voted Playtech as their winner for Best Online Bingo Software. This WhichBingo Award is a testament to our core focus of continued innovation, all driven by working closely with licensees and players, to deliver an online bingo product that is simply unrivalled.“ issue 012

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