Bingo halls are being hailed as a solution to the growing issue of loneliness by the CEO of the largest bingo chain in the UK.
Dominic Mansour, the head of Buzz Bingo, formerly known as Gala, emphasized that bingo offers more than just a game of numbers—it fosters a sense of community, connection, and provides a secure environment for social interaction.
Despite this positive impact, there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of bingo halls nationwide. Buzz Bingo, which previously operated 137 venues, now only has 79 sites due to the effects of the Covid pandemic, resulting in reduced footfall.
The overall industry has seen a decline from 335 bingo halls pre-Covid to 247 presently, a significant drop from the approximately 635 establishments before the smoking ban was enforced in 2007. This trend parallels the diminishing numbers of traditional pubs, which also serve as crucial social hubs.
Mansour emphasized that Buzz Bingo venues are integral to the community, acknowledging the challenges faced by the sector in recent years. The company’s internal survey revealed that nearly half of bingo players experienced loneliness before attending, but a majority left feeling more connected and less lonely.
Recent research highlighted that almost 26 million UK adults sometimes feel lonely, with around 3.8 million individuals experiencing chronic loneliness. Mansour underscored the importance of bingo in combating this nationwide loneliness crisis and promoting overall well-being.
The personal stories of dedicated bingo players like David, Angela, and Brenda further underscore the social significance of these establishments in providing companionship and a sense of belonging to individuals of various age groups.
While bingo remains popular among older individuals, Buzz Bingo is actively seeking ways to attract younger players. However, Mansour acknowledged the financial challenges faced by the company, noting the need for significant investments in refurbishing their venues to enhance the overall customer experience.
Miles Baron, the CEO of The Bingo Association, highlighted the dual appeal of bingo as a social activity for both winning money and interacting with family and friends. Economic pressures, such as increased national insurance and minimum wage costs, have impacted operators’ profitability in recent times.
As the gambling industry faces potential tax hikes, Mansour expressed concerns about the impact on bingo hall operations, particularly if online gambling firms are targeted instead. The debate around gambling taxes and their implications on various sectors continues, with stakeholders like former Prime Minister Gordon Brown advocating for a strategic approach to address societal challenges.
In conclusion, Mansour stressed the delicate balance between online and retail bingo operations, cautioning against excessive taxation that could jeopardize the viability of traditional bingo halls. The future landscape of the industry hinges on navigating these financial challenges while preserving the social essence that bingo halls provide to their patrons.
