Blog

Posts about “Bingo Workers”.

Join The ‘Back Bingo Campaign’!

By Lisa West on Sunday, 21st June 2009

The UK Bingo Industry has already been buckling under heavy financial strains, mainly, brought on by the no smoking ban, and the current worldwide economic meltdown. Many UK Bingo Clubs have been forced to close down, and others are facing the same fate. There has been some renewed optimism, within the Bingo Industry, due to the appointment of Brian Mattingley, as the new Chairman of the UK Bingo Association.
The UK Bingo Association is the trade association for licensed UK Bingo Clubs. They are currently the Back Bingo Campaign, a petition by the UK Bingo Industry to reverse Chancellor Darling’s huge hike on Bingo tax duty, from fifteen to twenty two percent. If the new tax duty does go ahead, many believe it will be the final nail in the coffin for many of the UK Bingo Clubs.
To help UK Bingo Clubs, the UK Bingo Industry are asking that everyone join in the campaign. You can sign the Downing Street petition, by going to the UK Bingo Association website. Another way you can help is by writing to your MP, and joining the Facebook Back Bingo Campaign.
UK Bingo Clubs need all the help they can get right now. Even if you don’t have a local club, and are a dedicated Online Bingo player, you can still lend a helping hand by signing the petition. If you are a Bingo Club fan, why not join the Back Bingo Campaign?
Mattingley has plenty of experience, within the Bingo Industry, and here’s hoping, he can help the UK Bingo Clubs get back on their feet. The industry itself does seem to have gained a certain amount of renewed optimism. When Bingo Clubs close, people lose a part of their community AND their jobs. So you really will be doing ‘real people’ a big favour, by signing joining in with the Back Bingo Campaign.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 21/05/2009

Comment on this blog post »
New Chairman for UK Bingo Association

By Lisa West on Saturday, 20th June 2009

Brian Mattingly has been appointed Chairman of the UK Bingo Association, who are also members of EUBingo, a European umbrella group. They are the official trade association for the UK, representing all the Bingo Hall proprietors who are licensed to operate in Great Britain.
Mattingly is certainly no stranger to the UK Bingo Halls. He was previously the Financial Director for the well known Gala Bingo chain and only recently took over a small chain of Bingo Halls from Riva. A company who are currently struggling to keep their heads above water, in the current economic times.
Everyone is aware of the current crisis, within the UK Bingo Halls. With the onslaught of competition from Online Bingo operators, the no smoking ban, and the added financial burdens brought about by the UK economic crisis, many UK Bingo Halls have been closed down, or are on the point of closure. Including the Riva Bingo Hall in Bristol.
Despite all the problems, Mattingley has big plans in the pipeline for the ex Riva Bingo Halls he acquired only months ago, and is extremely optimistic about the future. Something the Bingo Halls and the UK Bingo Association could do with right now.
Mattingley’s predecessor, Sir Peter Fry, had spent almost ten years as Chairman of the UK Bingo Association, when he retired earlier this year. It is hoped that Mattingley will bring a breath of new life into the Bingo industry, and there’s no doubt, he does have an impressive CV to date!
Mattingley has already worked with some of the biggest brand name operators in the UK, including Online Bingo company, 888 Holdings. With all the financial strains UK Bingo Halls are facing, including the impending rise in the Bingo tax duty, Mattingley is taking over the helm while facing stormy seas. Only time will tell if he can keep this ship afloat.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 20/06/2009

Comment on this blog post »
Gala bingo gives 96 year old Granny a Lifetime Ban?

By Lisa West on Thursday, 2nd July 2009

As an Online Bingo Player, I’ve only ever heard stories of how people can get very upset if someone takes their lucky chair, or they don’t have their favourite dabber, or lucky rat's foot (whatever!) when playing at their local Bingo Hall. Curiously, it did conjure up images of rabid, blue rinse ladies stabbing me with their knitting needles should I ever venture into this world (I have a dark sense of humor!) and, God forbid, be unfortunate enough to sit in the wrong place. However, it seems this wasn’t so far from a possibility after all!
The Pollock Gala Bingo Hall in Glasgow has just had to ban a 96 year old Bingo Player for giving the manager a left hook and threatening another Player. It seems the 96 year old had already become somewhat notorious, being well known for her hot temper and argumentative nature. The Gala Bingo Hall imposed the ‘lifetime ban’??? after this hot headed lady told the player she would have to face ‘Dire Consequences’ if she didn’t move out of her favourite seat. Wow! Let’s hope she doesn’t own one of those ‘wheeley’ shopping bags! This is one serious lady!
The offending Bingo Player refused to move, and the manager was called to try and sort the problem out. To which, he received a swift whack in the head for his trouble… As you would expect, people were left shocked by the behaviour of the 96 year old, although this isn’t the first time she had become abusive. Gala Bingo officials are said to be shocked too, commenting that the incident was ‘shocking from someone of that age’. Gala Bingo made a decision after ‘lengthy discussions’, deciding that they couldn’t let hot headed Bingo Players of any age, attack their staff either verbally, or physically. No matter how old they are!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 02/07/2009

Comment on this blog post »
Mecca Bingo Hall Raid

By Lisa West on Thursday, 9th July 2009

The All Saint Green Bingo Hall in Norwich, run by Mecca Bingo, was broken into by an knife wielding raider. The attack happened last Friday morning. A man, wearing a balaclava, entered the Mecca, city centre, Bingo Hall, at around 8.15 am, and held a female employee at knife point. The terrified woman, though to be in her late twenties, was dragged, from room to room, with the knife held to her throat, as the raider hunted for cash. The raid was foiled when the would-be robber entered the main Bingo Hall. Cleaner, Lee Marrison has been a cleaner at Mecca Bingo for the past two years. When he heard the terrified cries of the woman, he decided to stand his (and her) ground.
The intruder told Lee to lie on the floor, but when he didn’t, and just told the girl to “calm down”, the robber dropped the knife and made a run for it. Fellow worker, also a cleaner at Mecca Bingo, Rex Dowe, heard the commotion and went to the main hall, to see what was going on. He entered to see Lee chasing after the robber, and joined in the chase. The robber had entered, via a back door, which exits onto an alleyway. His accomplish was waiting here, with a motorbike.
Despite their intervention, the robbers managed to escape, and they didn’t get the number plates or a description. Apart from the one with the knife was about six foot tall. Lee’s mum is a cleaning supervisor, at the Mecca Bingo hall, and said the girl was “shaken up”. Thankfully, although in shock, she didn’t get badly hurt.
Several staff, including Lee, said they saw the two men ‘sussing the place out’ the day before the raid. Despite the lack of information, a twenty five year old has been arrested, but police are appealing for witnesses. Call Crimestoppers if you think you have any information that might be useful.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 09/06/2009

Comment on this blog post »
Bingo Tax Hike To Go Ahead

By Lisa West on Monday, 13th July 2009

Despite the Back Bingo Campaign, launched by the UK Bingo Industry, and the recent protest at Parliament House. OR, the fact that Bingo Halls are already folding because of low revenues, and the present, disastrous, economy. The Government has ignored everyone lol… and gone ahead with the Bingo Tax Hike. Which probably, more aptly, should be called the Tax Heist! It seems, far from reconsidering, the Government has actually pushed through the new bill.

You may remember the, now legendary, budget speech by the Chancellor. Regardless of whether you were there, or not, if you play bingo, you’ve definitely heard all about it since then! What seems to annoy the Bingo Operators, and Players, the most, is the fact that ONLY the Bingo Industry was targeted. While every other gaming sector can breath a sigh of relief, and carry on as usual, the Bingo Industry has to take a 7% rise. Right between the eyes!

It doesn’t look hopeful for the land based Bingo Operators, and this may well be the final, and fatal, blow for many local Bingo Halls. Of course, not forgetting, that also means jobs will be lost. It seems that neither the protests and petitions, nor the optimism, brought about by the appointment of Brian Mattingly (Chairman of the UK Bingo Association) was enough to make a difference. Not to the Government, anyhow.

However, on the brighter side, the Online Bingo Operators are doing well. Or, at least, most of them are! Lower overheads, mean the cost to players is less, and the cash prizes are getting bigger, and bigger, by the minute. Plus, with Bingo Made Millionaires hitting the headlines, it’s no wonder Players are rushing to their PC’s!! Some Online Bingo sites have FREE BINGO, with cash prizes. Penny Bingo and Buy One Get One FREE is also becoming a popular promotion. With Online Bingo being so much cheaper, and now the Government Tax Hike, things just seem to be going from bad, to worse, for many local Bingo Halls.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 13/07/2009

Comment on this blog post »
Bingo Extreme?

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 14th July 2009

It looks like the world of the land based Bingo Halls is getting a little ‘stressed out’ these days. What with the ‘Carlisle Protests’, against the, now definite, Bingo Tax Heist; attempted robbery at the Mecca Bingo hall in Norwich; A 96 year old grandma being banned for fighting! Plus, now, a sixty five year old man has just got, literally, a shot in the leg, at the Granada Bingo hall in Liverpool. Crikey! Luckily, the old boy only suffered ‘minor injuries’. But that can’t help but beg the question, what’s next?

Well, I could answer that, and I’m going to! Voodoo! That’s right, that’s what I said. Voodoo! Seems Bingo fans have gone to extreme measures, in a bid to make the Government listen to them. As you may be aware, the Government, so far, has been oblivious to all the usual lines of diplomacy…and logic. Every petition, every protest, and even the fact that they know the Bingo Halls are struggling, and people are losing their jobs (since their last lot of new ‘Bills’), has failed to have any effect whatsoever. So, now, Bingo fans everywhere feel they have no option, but to turn to the dark side…

For those people who are going to loose their jobs, and/or loose an important part of their social life, this definitely isn't to be taken lightly. There are a lot of people who have just had either, or both, put at risk. Simply because, the Government has decided to put another nail in the coffin, of the Bingo Industry, and target Bingo for a Tax Hike. It does seem incredible, that the Government has ONLY targeted the Bingo Industry. Why haven’t any other Gaming Sectors been hit? Why raise only the taxes for Bingo, to 22%? Why not raise the taxes for ALL the gaming sectors, by a more marginal amount? It seems we all have so many questions, yet, so few answers… no doubt, the saga will continue.. let's just hope, it doesn't all end in tears :(

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 14/07/2009

Comment on this blog post »
Another Blackpool Bingo Hall Closes

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 19th August 2009

As one more Bingo Hall close its doors permanently, the closures seem utterly relentless, and inevitable! The Orion Bingo Hall in Cleveleys, just outside of Blackpool, is the latest to lose the battle for survival. This Bingo Hall has been open since the late sixties, yet has been forced to shut down due to a big fall in attendance. Despite some loyal members regularly attending the games, it just wasn’t enough to convince the owners, or turn over any profit.

Thirty jobs will be lost because of the closure. During an interview with the Blackpool Gazette, the Cleveleys Orion Bingo Hall manager, Roxburgh Richmond, stated that staff were
"obviously very upset at the prospect of losing their jobs”. The staff were informed why the owners had decided to close the doors, and Richmond said they expected that to be “at the end of August or the middle of September".

The Cleveleys Orion Bingo Hall is located in an ex Cinema building, not far from Fleetward. Where only a few months ago, its local Bingo Hall also closed down. Many of the Blackpool Bingo Halls have reported that profits are down, and many are struggling to keep their heads above water. Without doubt, the economic meltdown has driven a few nails in the coffin. Alongside the arrival of big brand, Online Pay to Play and Free Bingo websites. It has been difficult for Local Bingo Halls to keep up the pace. The big tax raise has certainly tipped the scales for many.

It is sad to see yet another local Bingo Hall break under the pressure, more jobs lost and another hole left in another community. Although not so much a surprise. The manager for Cleveleys Orion Bingo Hall summed it up, when he stated, “A big part of bingo is the social side."
This was an article by Lisa on Local Bingo Hall Closures

Comment on this blog post »
Mecca Bingo's Big Success Story

By Lisa West on Saturday, 22nd August 2009

With so many land based Bingo Halls in trouble, and even the leading brand names struggling to keep finances on a level, it’s nice to hear some good news; for once! It cost an incredible £5Million to convert a former cash and carry building into the brand swanky new Mecca Bingo Hall. That’s a lot of investment, especially with the current economic climate, a smoking ban and the recent tax hike. Plus! The recent onslaught of Online Bingo operators offering penny Bingo and Free Bingo rooms by the tonne. It’s been more than enough to see many, previously well established, Bingo Halls close their doors, permanently.

The brand new Mecca Bingo Hall in Beeston, near Nottingham, has become such a buzz point that even some of their competitors employees have made a beeline for Beeston (on their nights off of course!). Looks like one Bingo Hall that is destined for success. Life hasn’t been easy for the land based Bingo operators of late. Just when they thought the industry had received about as many blows as thought possible, they’ve now had to suffer the Swine Flu epidemic. Even so, it just goes to prove, success is possible, even in the face of inevitable failure!

To get the new Mecca Bingo Hall of to a flying start, the grand opening of the new Queens Rd Bingo Hall was a not short of a gimmick or two. There was plenty of fresh male flesh for the ladies shall we say! The new Bingo Hall has made use of the latest state of the art technology, which, along with the live Bingo callers, make the game not so different to Online Bingo. The callers are a lot more interactive with the players, wearing headsets, which allows them to move around. Mecca have gone all out to make land based Bingo just that bit more exciting, and it looks like their players are having a great time!

This was an article by Lisa on Mecca Bingo

Comment on this blog post »
Is it Goodbye? Farewell or Adious?

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 26th August 2009

Long gone are the smoke filled church halls, buzzing with excited housewives and the old boy from down the road. At first, things naturally moved on. The church hall was turned into a permanent bingo players paradise, and even local cinemas moved over, to make space for the mighty Bingo Game. All was looking rosy in the garden pf Bingo, until the bingo operators were subject to a big, triple whammy of bad breaks. First, there was the smoking ban, closely followed by a worldwide economic breakdown. Then, the world of online bingo came along, leaving land based Bingo Halls, juggling balls, as opposed to calling them. Even at this point, it looked like many of the UK Bingo Halls were going to be heading for a fall.

Just in case the land based operators didn’t quite make it to rock bottom, the UK government decided to replace the possibility, with probability; and without hesitation, introduced a new crippling tax rate - Despite the fact that anyone and everyone, who knows anything about the Bingo industry, said this would be the final straw to break the Camels back. At this point, the days of Winnie the Pooh and Danny la Rue seemed numbered. Indeed, this has turned out to be one of those times when everyone would love NOT to say, “I told you so”. Unfortunately, the inevitable has happened.

The UK government, in their infinite wisdom, have ensured that already vulnerable Bingo Halls have been forced to close their doors, permanently. In addition, the operators who actually manage to make money, have packed their bags for Gibraltar. Well, that worked guys! didn’t it? So, what do we have now? If you're lucky, you still have your local Bingo Hall. However, the real question is, “for how long”? Of course, the government has defended its decisions, all the way. Over and over again, when questioned, Angela Eagle (treasury minister) just keeps on repeating herself, "the level of taxation for bingo is about the average for gambling". And? So when is this idealised philosophy going to be replaced by reality? Has she not considered, if there are no bingo halls, then there are no taxes… Surely, 15% of something is better than 22% of nothing? Or am I working from a different abacus here??? Hey! Haven’t we heard this somewhere before? Isn’t that kind of, there is no bread, “so let them eat cake”… How detached can they be? The story continues…

This was an article by Lisa writen for Bingo Faces on Bingo Halls

Comment on this blog post »
Players Asked To Sign Online Bingo Petition

By Lisa West on Thursday, 27th August 2009

Since the government raised the taxes for Bingo from 15% to 22%, things have gone from bad to worse for many UK Bingo Operators. There have been protests and petitions, however, nothing seems to have been able to dissuade the government to date. Nevertheless, neither the Bingo industry or the players are quite ready to give it up just yet.

Only a short while ago, John Hayes, a MP for the Conservative party stated that he would be doing his utmost to try and convince the government to reverse it’s decision. Even if the government does decide to reduce the current rate, it still might not be enough to save some of the Bingo Halls. It may just be too little, too late.

Romsey Liberal MP, Sandra Gidley has set up an online petition, protesting against the governments recent tax hike. Of course, she has made a point of calling upon the people of Romley to sign the petition. To date, over 2.500 people have done just that. Everyone is invited to sign, it is not exclusive to the people of Romley. It only takes a minute. You will find it here: http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/Bingoplayers/ - and without doubt, the Bingo Halls need all the support they can get right now.

When local Bingo Halls are forced to close down, people lose their jobs, as well as a central meeting point for the community. As Gidley pointed out, the “government killjoys just don't seem to understand the threat” the Bingo operators are under”. So, it looks like it’s going to be up to the players, to make them understand!

Another Liberal MP, John Barrett, for Edinburgh West, has also given his support, and signed the petition. He also believes that the tax raise will finish off many of the Bingo Halls who are already struggling to keep out of the red. Barrett recently stated in an interview with a local paper, that the government were using Bingo operators as a “cash cow”. However, as Barrett realises, rather than bringing in revenue, it is just creating “more gaps in high streets."

This is an article by Lisa for Bingofaces on the Bingo Petition

Comment on this blog post »
The Fate of Ex Gala Bingo Hall Still Undecided

By Lisa West on Friday, 28th August 2009

Many local Bingo halls have been forced to close their doors over the last twelve months, and it is not only the small operators who have been hit. The closure of many Gala Bingo Halls has been big news, as have their debts. And, while players might lose their local hall, and others their jobs, it all begs another question. What’s going to happen to all these buildings? One such hall is the ex Gala Bingo club in Upper Norward, which is situated in the borough of Bromley, south London. Word has it, there are two groups who would like to take over. They are, the Evangelical Church, and City Screen. The Evangelical Church have already submitted plans to the council, to convert the Gala Bingo Hall. However, this has been met by a stream of protests, and a petition with more than 5000 signatures.

It seems that Bromley locals would prefer the old Gala Bingo hall to be used as an “Art House” cinema. Even so, the Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) already own the freehold to the building, and only need the council to agree a ‘change of use’. The Bingo Hall was closed by the Gala group some time ago, so, there is a gap which needs to be filled within the community. The KICC have stated that the new “Church” would act as a central meeting place for people in the local community, is which case, everyone will benefit. Although it goes without saying, there is a lot of difference, with regards to entertainment value, between an Evangelical Church and an Art House movie theatre!

Currently, the Evangelist headquarters is based in rented premises, in the borough of Wimbledon. Their proposals include a café and bookshop, plus they intend to offer counselling services, a youth club, and skills training. Plus, they also plan to provide a weekly free family film viewing. Regardless, the locals seem to favour the Art House cinema, and it looks like the Evangelical Church are going to have a fight on their hands if they decide to go ahead. Despite their good faith and determination, their fate seems even less optimistic than the Gala Bingo Hall before it. I guess, as always, everyone will just have to wait and see!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo faces on Gala bingo Halls

Comment on this blog post »
Gala Bingo Charity Climb

By Lisa West on Sunday, 30th August 2009

Gala Bingo have had a few problems this year, to say the least. Even so, it hasn’t affected their generosity! Not only do Gala pay out more than £15Million every week in prize money, they have also raised a lot of money for charity. Since their launch, Gala Bingo have given a percentage of ticket sales to the Sue Rider Foundation. This is a charity, which provides care for people who are suffering from long term and terminal illnesses; Parkinson and Huntington’s Disease; Multiple Sclerosis; Cancer; and support for their families and loved ones.

Gala Bingo have set a target, to raise over a million pounds for the Sue Rider foundation over the next eighteen months. To get things moving along, twenty four employees at Gala Bingo have volunteered to climb seventy five miles up Everest, on a 2,700mtr ascent. It is hoped that sponsorship will raise £100.000 for the fund. The volunteers will leave for the Everest base camp on October 16th, and with everything going to plan, they should arrive on November 3rd. Quite a trek!

Paul Woodward is Chief executive for the Sue Ryder foundation, and of course, he has shown his complete support for the Gala Bingo staff’s endeavours. Woodward stated that the charity were “delighted”, and that the money they raise will make “a real difference” to thousand’s of peoples lives. Gala Bingo players can support the fundraiser, simply by playing their favourite game. From August 27th, Gala Bingo are holding a special 90ball link game, every Tuesday night at 7.25pm. For every pound players spend on tickets, Gala will put 10p in the Kitty. Compared to climbing mount Everest, this is a walk in the park! Why not offer your support, as they say, every little helps!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Gala Bingo Charity Fundraiser

Comment on this blog post »
Bingo Tax Not To Blame...lol

By Lisa West on Saturday, 5th September 2009

The rebellion against the governments new Bingo Tax legislation has been headline news for a while now. For many of the smaller, independent operators, the 22% has simply proven to be way too much to handle. Therefore, somewhat inevitably, they have been forced to close their doors. Despite many people indicating that the rise is responsible for current closures and cut backs, the government has remained solid. And unfortunately for those companies, it looks like they have absolutely no intention of back tracking.

Since the new tax rate was passed, two of the UK’s biggest online operators have moved their finances offshore. While smaller operators, have been forced to either close, or face bankruptcy. Things just seem to have gone from bad to worse, for many of the UK’s land based Bingo Halls. And it isn’t just the little guys who have been affected. Just take a look at the state of the Gala Bingo, and you’ll get the picture.

Yvette Cooper, former treasury minister, has always been against the Bingo Tax. And, although she is no longer minister, she continues to give her support. Cooper wrote to the current treasury secretary, Sarah Mc Carthy Fry, airing her, and others, concerns.

While most in the industry believe that the government has overlooked many relative, and crucial aspects, Sarah Fry states that the tax increase had nothing to do with the decline of the land based Bingo Halls. Instead, she believes that the problems are due to a change in the public’s general entertainment preferences. As well as a rise in competition, within the industry as a whole. In short, not so many people want to play Bingo, and there are more Bingo operators around.

This does seem, somewhat, a case of 'tunnel vision'. And, certainly, short of reiterating the bombardment of problems land based Bingo Halls have had to face, of late. The no smoking hit hard. The recession hit harder. Therefore, it stands to reason, the Bingo tax is going to be a killer blow for the little guy. One can only presume, where the government are concerned, the little guy isn’t a concern. Now, that makes a change. Lol.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Bingo Tax

Comment on this blog post »
Gala Bingo Totes For Investors

By Lisa West on Monday, 7th September 2009

Gala Bingo Online was first launched on the Parlay platform in 2005. The site has become one of the leading online bingo websites, and Parlay Entertainment have become one of the worlds leading providers of bingo software. Both have been feeling the pressure of late, but none more so than Gala Bingo. Although the company continues to rebuke claims that they are in trouble. However, with so many damning reports flying around, it’s looking more certain than ever, this is actually the case.

There have been many press releases, alleging that Gala Coral owe more than £2.5Billion, and are unable to make repayments to lenders. Only days ago, the Mirror released a report that stated, a leaked internal memo revealed Gala Coral were planning to streamline operations, and planned to halve current management positions. Undoubtedly, Gala Bingo are on a major cost cutting exercise.

The Mail Online have since published a report, based on information from an inside source. According to them, top management will be shown the door, and the group may well have to be “broken up and sold off”, if new investors are not found soon. Things are definitely not looking good for Gala Bingo.

The situation certainly throws some perspective, upon just how big the problems are, within the industry as a whole. Gala Coral are a well established company, with millions of pounds in equity. If their head ends up on the chopping board, what chance does the little guy have?

It’s believed that Gala Bingo have £250Million on the books, which is currently frozen, due to the terms and conditions of loans with current investors. If the Gala Coral Group can exchange debt for equity, with investors, the £250Million will be released. In which case, for everyone's sake, lets hope that Gala Coral find new investors, and soon!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Gala Bingo

Comment on this blog post »
More Cutbacks For Gala Bingo Halls

By Lisa West on Sunday, 6th September 2009

Gala Bingo have been in the headlines, plenty of late. Unfortunately, not for the best of reasons. Of course, just about all the UK land based Bingo Halls are struggling, so they are not alone there. However, it is all the more alarming when it is a big company, like Gala Coral, on the brink of disaster. doesn’t hold out much hope for the independent Bingo Halls, that’s for sure.
Despite numerous reports, from numerous sources, Gala Coral have denied allegations that they are in serious trouble. Pretty much, keeping their cards close to their chest. Even so, they have plenty of ‘insiders’ who aren’t quite so guarded. The Mirror has just revealed that, according to an insider, the Gala Coral group are planning to restructure management, at the Gala Bingo Halls. Apparently, an internal memo outlined the company’s aim, which is to halve management, shedding more than two hundred jobs.

If the latest allegation is true, Gala employees for the chopping block will know swiftly. Over the next month, financial gurus at the Gala Coral head office will be examining the current management structure, and implementing a new streamlined version. On top of this, Gala Bingo recently announced further closures. Five more of Gala’s land based Bingo Halls are also set for closure. All in all, Gala bingo staff are in for a rough ride.

The Mirror claims the cutbacks prove that Gala Coral are having serious financial problems. If that is the case, then the cutbacks are necessary for the group to survive as a whole. As long as they manage to avoid being dissolved completely, they will live to fight another day. And, time is a great healer. It is possible, we could see a comeback, in relatively no time at all. Lets hope Gala Coral can manage to keep the last man standing….

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Gala Bingo Halls

Comment on this blog post »
Gala Bingo - Raising £1Million For Charity

By Lisa West on Monday, 14th September 2009

Gala Bingo have begun a national drive to raise £1MILLION for Sue Rider Care, over just eighteen months. That’s a very noble cause, and a very noble gesture. You may have heard already, about the trip to base camp on Everest. But that’s not all the Gala employees are up to! They are all pretty busy right now, organising more great fundraising events, and of course, they need the help of their members. At the Gala Bingo Hall in Southampton, they have just raised hundreds of ££££££’s, for Gala’s Sue Ryder Care, charity push.

In just one month, the Gala Bingo Hall in Lords Hill has raised over £750 for Sue Rider. Simply by holding some regular prize draws and some fun Tombolas. To date, they have managed to collect more than £1500 - Amazing what can be achieved, just by having some fun! ; ) Sue Cooper is a committee fundraiser for Lord’s Hill. Sue has nothing but praise for all the players who have joined in, as well as the local businesses who have donated some great prizes.

First prize, in their big monthly draw last month, was a fantastic weekend for two in Bruges. Right now, they also have a group paintball offer, for up to thirty five people, up for offer. The package is worth over £500, and was another donation from a local, Southampton business. If you have a Southampton business, and would like to make a donation, why not contact Sue? Tel: 023 8074 1117.

Not just the Gala Bingo land based club members can join in, and lend a helping hand.
Every Tuesday, at exactly 7.25pm, online players join up with players at Gala’s 90ball Bingo Halls, for a linked, Charity game. For every £1 sold in tickets, online and off, Gala Bingo will put 10p into the pot. Like they say, no-one splashes the cash like Gala Bingo!!!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Gala Bingo Charity Push

Comment on this blog post »
Cashcade - Cutting Their Affiliates

By Lisa West on Friday, 25th September 2009

Since Parlay Entertainment took over Cashcade, they have continued their crusade to buy out the out the world of online gaming. Or, at least, ensure they have a mighty substantial slice of the market. When Parlay added Cashcade to their portfolio, they bagged the mighty Fox, along with some other, seriously popular online Bingo websites. Including, Think, and free play site Cheeky Bingo.

Foxy has become, without doubt, Cashcade’s leading guy. They have been putting their all, into pushing his already well known name into pole position, in the online gaming ‘Hall of Fame’. And, to date, they have been very successful, and not just with the Foxy Bingo brand. Maybe all that success has gone to their heads. Which is why they don’t feel the need to keep their affiliates happy these days. Well, at least, not quite so happy, by introducing a pretty significant cut in affiliate commissions.

While Foxy Bingo now enjoy huge popularity online, it seems they have been swift to dismiss their affiliates. Even though, their hard work has always played a major role, with regards to that success. Plus, they obviously had no intentions of explaining the cuts… the email circuited to their affiliates was pretty much delivering the message of ‘whether you like it or not, that’s the way it is. AKA TUFF!

A lot of the operators have been cutting back on advertising and slim lining operations, in a bid to cut costs and beat the recession. It does seem to have been since April, that many of them have really begun to make major changes. However, is cutting back commissions going to save them money in the long run? Or cost the members? Affiliates may well turn their efforts to other operators. With competition so fierce, for new custom (after all, players now have the choice of hundreds of online Bingo websites), this might be one of Parlay Entertainment / Cashcade’s best moves to date…

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Foxy Bingo

Comment on this blog post »
No More Closures Planned At Gala Bingo - lol!

By Lisa West on Saturday, 26th September 2009

Employees at Gala have been living on eggshells for a while now. For months, Gala Bingo have been announcing cutbacks and closures. Even so, ultimately, the company have denied there are any really big problems. Despite the fact that one press release after another, has indicated to the contrary, as have their lenders. Plus, we have all been witnessing the closures of their land based Bingo Halls, along with some, seriously streamlining, staffing and advertising ‘restructuring’ strategies.

Now, Gala have announced that their Bingo Hall in Castle Hill, in the Midlands, is set for closure. Despite the fact, only a couple of months ago, Neil Goulden, chairman of Gala Bingo, stated that “certainly, in the foreseeable future” the company had “no other Bingo Hall closures planned”. Looks like a definite U Turn (or a blatant ‘porky pie’), if ever there’s been one. With such a sharp and fast backtrack, it looks like not all the cards are on the table, with regards to the true situation, within the Gala Bingo camp.

The Castle Hill, Gala Bingo, Hall is located near Dudley Zoo, and it was thought to be a popular venue. Which is why, when Gala Bingo say they are closing it, purely as a “commercial decision”, it is a shock to discover; according to them, it isn’t actually that popular at all! Who knows, maybe it will be reverted back to the theatre it once was. After all, isn’t that what the government said? The Bingo Halls are going out of style? That people are simply changing their ‘entertainment preferences’.. ummm.. Wonder what Neil Goulden would have to say about that!

The closure was announced in two UK, regional dailies, and is one of a recent flood of Gala Bingo Hall closures. The fate of Castle Hill looked dubious in August. Even so, when it didn’t close, staff and players thought it had gained a reprieve. A spokeswoman for Gala Bingo said they have already had an offer for the building, so the decision looks fairly final. Just goes to show, you really can’t believe everything you read in the papers…

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Gala Bingo Halls

Comment on this blog post »
Gala Bingo On The Up & Up?

By Lisa West on Monday, 12th October 2009

The downturn of business for Gala Coral, has been headlines for months now. Gala Bingo are the UK’s leading land based Bingo operator. Owning more clubs, up and down the country, than any other. Even so, in the last few months, Gala Coral, who employ around twenty thousand people in the UK, have been forced to shut down Bingo and Casino clubs, as well as streamline staff. Without doubt, the smoking ban, economical crisis, and raised taxes, have had their toll on the company. Nevertheless, their biggest problem is still the £100million they have to pay back each year, in interest alone, on their estimated, £2.6billion debt.

There had been some speculation, that the current private equity firm, who own Gala Coral, would write off debts for assets. According to a report in the Sunday Times, that has happened. Candover, Civen, and Primera, will be writing off more than £540million in debts, in return for a substantial stake in the business. Effectively, by surrendering around 50% of the company, Gala Coral will be able to use their revenues (currently frozen), to invest in the business. As opposed to merely paying the bills. Hopefully, this will turn out to be a very positive move for the company.

Of course, this deal will not exactly remove the debts. However, it will allow them to utilise the money they do have, to move the company forward. And, hopefully, upward. How they handle their debts now, will certainly determine their future. Hopefully, now their private backers have agreed to the deal, gala Coral have found themselves some breathing space.

Gala Coral have quite a packed portfolio, despite the problems: 2000 betting offices; 148 bingo Clubs; 27 casinos and two Greyhound Racing stadiums. Gala Coral, apparently, has around £250 million frozen, due to debts. Neil Goulden, Gala Coral Chairman, has been (understandably) somewhat frustrated, by the company’s inability to utilise that money. Hopefully, this will mark the end of this chapter, and Gala Coral can look forward to a tad more security during the coming months.

This was an article by LJ for Bingo Faces on Gala Bingo

Comment on this blog post »
Party Gaming - Raking It In!

By Lisa West on Saturday, 17th October 2009

Party Gaming certainly knew what they were doing, when they acquired major online operator, Cashcade. That is, if their third quarter results for this year are anything to go by. Cashcade have just revealed that revenues are on the up and up, by eleven percent, to almost $113million. So, it certainly looks like the ‘Cashcade acquisition’ has had quite an impact on the figures. Collectively, the Cashcade sites have almost 190,000 players. Of which, 48,400 signed up, in the third quarter of 2009 alone. Together, they wager $150K each and every single day.

In response to the news, a Party Gaming spokesman stated, “The integration of the business is progressing well”. Indicating that the company were “pleased with its performance to-date.” UUmmm? Who isn’t going to be please with rising revenues? Especially in this day and age, with the current world recession, eating its way through the economy. According to Party Gaming, this months trading has been good, and the company are “confident about the Group's full year prospects.” Indeed, if the current trend sticks, the future for Party Gaming is looking very sweet.

The Cashcade sites include some of the leading online Bingo websites around; Think Bingo; Cheeky Bingo; Bingo Scotland; Foxy Bingo, and Little Big Bingo. Just to name a few! These sites alone, have around 15700 registered players. Who, from July through September, spent almost $10 a day. CEO for Party Gaming, Jim Ryan feels that the company’s performance was “ seasonally weak” this third quarter. Although, “in line with our expectations”. Even so, Ryan is more than aware, the acquisition of Cashcade has “transformed” Party Gaming presence. And, Ryan believes it “was the driver behind the substantial increase in our bingo revenue.” Nevertheless, the online Bingo industry is worth around $1.5 billion. And, you can bet you bottom dollar, Party gaming haven’t finished, getting their share of the market, just yet!

This was an articles by LJ for Bingo Faces on Party Gaming - Cashcade

Comment on this blog post »
Gala Bingo Team - Top of The World Ma!

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 28th October 2009

The twenty four strong team of Gala Bingo workers reached base camp on Sunday. Nine days after leaving from Kathmandu, on October 16th. What a bunch of super stars they are! Even though the guys and girls have succeeded in their task, there’s no need to stop giving. Visit: http://www.galacoraleveresttrek.co.uk/2009/08/27/everest-bingo-game/ and you can still donate, to any one (or all of them if you like) of the twenty four who made the climb.

Patrick King, one of the group, and assistant manager at Gala’s Bingo Hall in Sudbury, was among those hoping to raise £100K for the Sue Rider Charity. He, like most, is just falling short of his target. So, they need your dosh Roomies! Each of the group has their own “just Giving” page. You can read why, what and how, each and every one decided to take on this enormous challenge. It’s great to read their stories, and you will be surprised, and inspired to read why, each and every one of them joined in.

According to the groups blog, there were a “few tears” around when they reached base camp. Without doubt, achieving what you set out to do, when it is such an arduous thing too do, is bound to stir a few emotions. The trek has taken them 75miles, and 2700 meters up the worlds highest mountain. You might wonder, how did they manage that? According to them,
“through a combination of sheer will power and team spirit”.

Of course, they have achieved a lot personally, as well as doing a great thing for a very deserving charity. The twenty four Gala Employees who made the climb, were chosen from around 100 original applicants. Before they even left for base camp, they had already achieved a great deal. These guys have been through a gruelling experience, and yet, all they are asking you to do, is donate… so donate!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo faces on Gala Bingo

Comment on this blog post »

« Return to blog front page

Archive Posts by Date

2009

December (30)
November (30)
October (31)
September (30)
August (31)
July (29)
June (27)
April (24)
March (1)

2010

January (4)

Categories

Subscribe to this Blog

Bingo Faces Blog (RSS)