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Posts about “Industry News”.

What's Bingo?

By Lisa West on Friday, 26th June 2009

Bingo Machines are officially exempt from the amount which can be licensed, for any one particular gaming establishment. They are also exempt from prize and stake limits. However, the Gambling Commission has become more and more aware of the twists and turns, the gaming machine manufacturers are doing, in order to get past the regulations in place, to control slot machine gambling.
The biggest concern seems to be, some of the manufacturers are designing machines which are, supposedly, Bingo Machines, yet bare little difference to the more regulated slot and gaming machines. In an attempt to straighten things out, the Gambling Commission have come up with a list of ‘criteria’ for Bingo Machines.
Now, if the new machines don’t match that criteria, the commission are stating that they should not be classed as Bingo Machines, and may well be taxed accordingly. The new move, at present, is voluntary. However, the Gambling Commission have warned, if it isn’t sorted out this way, they will take more formal steps to make the requirements regulatory.
The Gambling commission did hold discussions, with both the UK Bingo Association, and British Amusement Catering Trade Association (BACTA). The Bingo association represents all UK licensed Bingo Operators, and BACTA represent the manufacturers of the pay to play machine industry. The new criteria is applicable to all Bingo games, regardless of whether they are automated, live, or machine.
There are certain criteria in place, which is specific to the manufacture of Bingo Machines. These machines may not be placed in an area where under eighteens can enter. The price per game may not be changed, nor may the prize on offer be dictated by the number of people playing. The new ‘Code of Practice’ has already been issued to both BACTA and UK Bingo Association members.
Although it has not been officially made regulatory (yet!), the Gambling Commission seem determined to get the issues dealt with. So, it seems in everyone’s interest to follow the guidelines, probably sooner, rather than later.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 26/06/2009

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Gala Coral In the Firing Line?

By Lisa West on Thursday, 25th June 2009

While Mecca Bingo can look forward to a 62million rebate, for overpayment of Tax, unlawfully charged by the UK Customs and Excise, Gala Coral could be looking at a multi million dollar tax bill. It has been reported that Gala Coral, who are already struggling to pay off billions of pounds worth of debt, may have to face another blow from the UK government. Primarily, if the government goes ahead with a crack down on the £500 Jackpot, Roulette Slot Machines. A big earner for the Gala Coral.
It is also believed that the UK Chancellor, Alistair Darling, will be targeting these machines for more tax increases in the future. A study carried out in 2007 indicated that around one in nine, Roulette Slot Machine players had a gambling problem. The Gambling Commission have now become involved, and it’s expected that they will advise Gerry Sutcliffe, the UK Culture Minister, to order more research into the problem.
Word is, the Gambling Commission have also discussed their belief that Gala Bingo Halls, along with others, have manipulated the rules, and their local licensing authorities, in order to install more of these, big money, Jackpot slots into their clubs.
Currently, the amount of Roulette Slot Machines any single club can have is limited. However, the commission believes that the Gala Bingo Halls have organised subdivisions within their clubs, in order to be granted multiple licences. The way things stand, the Gambling Commission sets out guidelines for local authorities, however, they are free to make their own decisions, and, there’s nothing the commission can actually do, to enforce those guidelines. It’s not just Gala Coral in the firing line. However, they are one of the most vulnerable companies if the government decides to crack down.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 25/06/2009

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62million for the Mecca Bingo Group

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 24th June 2009

Now doubt about it, Ian Burke, chief exec of the Rank Group, and the Bingo operator for Mecca Bingo Halls, must be breathing a sigh of relief right now. Rank have just won their High Court case against the VAT man, which means they can now look forward to a whopping great 62million rebate. Mecca Bingo have been hit hard by the smoking ban, seeing a sharp drop in profit, from it’s 103 Bingo Halls across the UK, since the new law came into force.
In this instance, the court ruled that the company had been overcharged VAT on some of the Bingo gaming machines, available in the Mecca Bingo Halls. The decision went their way, after the government changed the exemption from VAT, and taxation, on various gaming and Bingo machines in the UK. The court ruled that some of those changes were, in fact, in breach of European laws, therefore, the government must now refund those taxes back to MeccaBingo.
The refund is relative to one automated game in particular, played, between Bingo games, in the Mecca Bingo Halls. The High Court decision could be appealed, and it is believed that there are more than a thousand similar claims which still need to be concluded. The new ruling could end up costing the HM Customs & Excise a lot more, it’s possible figures could even reach the 500 million mark.
With the departure of their company head, Simon WyKes, and the arrival of their newly designed website, theirs been a lot of changes to MeccaBingo just lately. All in a determined bid to ensure Mecca doesn’t die, a slow and painful death, as have many of the UK’s less established Bingo operators. Seems the future truly is looking brighter, for at least one of the UK’s Bingo Hall operators.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 24/06/2009

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Free £10 No Deposit Bonus at Betfred Bingo

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 23rd June 2009

Yet another big Bingo name has announced it is changing over to the Virtue Fusion gaming software. Betfred Bingo are swapping from Playtech, over to virtue, in a bid to expand the Bingo, and side games, they already have on offer. Like many other Online Bingo sites, including Paddy Power & Virgin Bingo, many operators find the Virtue Fusion software more flexible.
Bet Fred already have an extensive variety of games on offer, including slots, casino and poker games, lotto and mobile betting. It will be interesting to see what develops when they actually make the change over. If you haven’t played Bingo at Bet Fred yet, right now they are offering a £10, Free No Deposit Bonus.
You will need to register and enter your payment details, in order to qualify, and have downloaded their current Bingo software. In addition, you need to send them an email to claim your £10. Betfred Bingo will then credit your account within twenty four hours. That might all seem a bit long winded, but they are offering one of the best Free No deposit Bonus deals around at the moment, and it doesn’t take long to sign up.
New players also receive a whopping great 150% Bonus when they make their first deposit, right to a £100!! Unlike the Free No Deposit Bonus, this new player Bingo Bonus is credited to your account straight away, unless you pay via MoneyBookers or Paypal. In this case, you will have to contact the Bet Fred Online Support and request this one too.
Every week, BetFred Bingo give away hundreds of thousands of Free Bingo cards, and they also give their players a 25% bonus every time they make a deposit. The Bingo Bonuses are big and there are tonnes of special promotions always on offer. All in all, there’s a lot of good reasons to play with Bet Fred. Why wait?

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 23/06/2009

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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

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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

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A New Bingo Experience From Microgaming

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 16th June 2009

Online Bingo and Casinos have fast become a multibillion dollar industry. Competition has become, should we say, intense? Although, that would probably be an understatement! But all this competitiveness has been good for Bingo Players. Today, there’s a huge variety of Online Gaming products available, created to be user friendly, to encourage even people who have never played a game of Bingo in their lives, to settle down for a game online.

Microgaming have to be one of the most innovative, and unique, Online Gaming company’s around. A private company who started out less than ten years ago, is now, for many, the workplace for some of the best minds in the industry. This month, the company have announced the release of their newest Online Bingo, stand alone, software.

Right now, Microgaming haven’t giving away too many details, to date. However, they have promised to let the cat out of the bag, to Bingo Players, at the Online Bingo Summit being held today and tomorrow (16th and 17th June). This is the fourth year of the summit, and every big name brand operator and gaming software company will be there.

In times past, Microgaming Bingo Software only functioned within their Casino software. The new ‘stand alone’, Online Gaming, Bingo software will function on a completely different platform. This means it can be installed alongside any other software. Therefore, opening more doors to operators and their Bingo Players.

The new software includes the traditional UK, 90Ball game, and the 75Ball game. Plus! There’s a great selection of casino games, slots, instant and scratch cards included. Each operator has the option to add their own personal ‘stamp’ on the new software package. As the new micro gaming slogan says, "It's what's inside that counts"! Only time will tell….

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 16/06/2009

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High Five Bingo

By Lisa West on Sunday, 14th June 2009

By the end of this year, Channel 5 hope to have their brand new UK, Online Bingo and Casino website up and running. Dawn Airey, Fives Chief exec, stated that the company are “looking aggressively” to expand their presence within the digital media sector, and are hoping to reflect Fives “unique sense of dynamism and fun”. The new Five Bingo website will be run by Party Gaming, and Channel 5 will be looking after the marketing side of things.

Chief Executive Officer, for Party Gaming, Jim Ryan, is very happy with the new addition to the company’s portfolio. More than thirty million people tune in to Channel 5 every week, and Ryan believes this could open the doors to many more ‘high profile’ “business to business” contracts in the future.

It’s a curious turn around for Party Gaming, who’ve just finished a previous contract with ITV - who, by the way, have not yet announced which ‘strategic partner’ they will be teaming up with next.

All the projects Party Gaming set up, with ITV, failed; ITV Bingo, Bingo Night Live, and the ITV Bingo Show. Of them all, Bingo Night Live was probably the most popular with viewers, but it still didn’t generate the kind of viewing numbers ITV expected.

Despite the new contract, and everything looking bright for Party Gaming right now, rumour is, they have been struggling with their ‘Party Bingo’ website, first launched in 2005. At first, this Online Bingo website was aimed at American players. However, due to changes in their online gaming laws, Party Bingo had to re-invent itself for the UK. No doubt, a big set back for the company.

There’s a lot of hearsay right now, with regards to the Five Bingo website. A lot of people believe that their new Online Bingo Bid is going to provide the extra revenue they have been looking for. One thing is for sure, the new Five Bingo site won’t be short of advertising!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 14/06/2009

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Good Bucky Bingo News!

By Lisa West on Thursday, 11th June 2009

The latest hot, industry Bingo News, is Bucky Bingo has gone ahead, and signed up for a long term contract, with gaming software provider Virtue Fusion. The contract means that the company will be the only software provider, for the Bucky Online Bingo site, over the next 5years. Many leading Online Bingo providers, such as Mecca, Virgin and Ladbrokes, have recently made the switch to the Virtue Fusion Bingo platform, and now, Bucky has joined the ranks.

The final decision has come after a two year trial, and indicates that Bucky management are definitely happy with the BNA software provided by Virtue Fusion. No doubt, this is also good Bingo News for Bucky Bingo players, who also seem more than happy with the Online Bingo and games provided. It’s no secret, the Bucky Online Bingo site saw a marked increase in players, during its first couple of years trial, using the Virtue Fusion platform.

The current contract will end in 2014, but if the positive response from players keep up, there’s no reason to why Bucky Bingo won’t be renewing its contract again. During the last twelve months, Virtue Fusion have been sweeping the board, when it comes to expanding their client portfolio. It seems like every day, they are headlines in the Bingo News, because another big name has been added to that list.

No doubt, Virtue Fusion are very happy with their latest addition, and no doubt Bucky management are looking forward to continuing their growing success. It does seem, this gaming software has the ‘Midas Touch’ when it comes to Online Bingo. But that’s not by accident! Their software provides the fun and entertainment all Bingo Players expect, plus, some great, added extra, innovative features they don’t! When it comes to Online Bingo, the fun just keeps on coming, down at Bucky Bingo!!
Lisa for Bingo Faces on 11/06/2009

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Time For A Bingo Break!

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 10th June 2009

Online Bingo has been taking the world by storm, and with the introduction of the smoking ban in the UK, the Bingo Association has been looking for a way to get people back into their local Bingo Clubs. And here you have it! Introducing the new, Bingo Break game!!!

Right now, the New Bingo Game is in ‘trial mode’, although it has already been given the go ahead by the Gambling Commission. Bingo tickets, to join in with the new game, are currently available at thirteen Bingo Clubs in the UK. You will need to find a land based Club participating in the trials, to purchase a ticket. However, you can play Bingo Break whenever you feel like it!

The New Bingo Game works like a lottery. Players choose numbers between one and sixty, so this is, effectively, a 60 Ball game. Prizes are based on how many numbers you match, with the ten drawn. Cash prizes are up for grabs, between two and fifteen pounds, but the Progressive Jackpots have been reaching thousands of pounds. To date, more than a hundred and thirty thousand tickets have been played, and more than £85,000 has been won.

Tickets for the New Bingo Game are sealed and pre-fixed, so you can even purchase them AFTER the numbers have been drawn. No rushing about, to get to the Bingo Club in time for the next game!!! So far, one in five tickets have turned out to be winners, that’s around twenty percent, and several new variations of the game are already in the pipeline.

The Bingo Association has announced that it wont be long before more similar, New Bingo Games, are introduced. There’s definitely a buzz for the game already, and the Industry is feeling very positive, about the success of their New Bingo Game. If you haven’t tried out the new game, why not give yourself a ‘Bingo Break’ and get down to your local Bingo Club today!
This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 10/06/2009

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CEO of Bingos.com Resigns

By Vikki Taylor on Monday, 20th April 2009

After five years of building and growing bingos.com, CEO Dominic Mansour is resigning to look for “new challenges”.

As well as being CEO of bingos.com he was also Director of Sales and Marketing for NetPlay TV plc.

Mansour started bingos.com five years ago, and built it up to what it is today, bingos.com was bought by NetPlay TV in April 2008 when he also became a board member.

Dominic Mansour spoke about his resignation in a press release: “It has been a real pleasure working with Martin and the team at NetPlay and I have really enjoyed the challenge of integrating the two companies and maximising the economies over the past 12 months. However, having built, lived and breathed the Bingos.com business from scratch over the past five years, I feel like it’s a good time for a new challenge. I wish Martin and the team all the best for the future.”

NetPlay TV have already found someone to replace Dominic Mansour, Gavin Whyte—who is also CEO of supercasino.com—will take over the position.

This was an article by Jess for Bingo Faces on Bingos.com

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ChiliBingo Launching Into the UK Online Bingo Market

By Lisa West on Monday, 29th June 2009

Parlay Entertainment software has just won a new contract, from Chili Gaming. Definitely good news for the company after recently loosing two major Bingo operators, to Virtue Fusion. Chili Gaming are already a successful UK Online Poker operator, but new to Online Bingo. The Chili Poker site currently runs on PlayTech software, and they could have stayed with them for the new ChiliBingo site.
According to the Chilli Gaming CEO, Alexandre Dreyfus, the company decided to go with Parlay Entertainment, mainly, because they believe, the Parlay Platform offers better Bingo and Side Games. The new ChiliBingo website isn’t up and running yet, so right now, we’ll all have to wait and see how things pan out. But there’s definitely the promise of some new and exciting Side Games, on the cards. Let’s hope they’re keen to encourage new players, and get things of to a cracking start with some big Sign Up Bonuses! No deposit, even better!!!
There’s no date set for the launch… yet! Nevertheless, be assured, as soon as it’s up and running Bingo Faces will be among the first to check it out. Fingers crossed, we’ll be bringing you good news! ChiliBingo will be for the UK Online Bingo market, and it will be interesting to see what Parlay Entertainment come up with. This is a great chance for them to make a comeback, after loosing two big contracts to rivals, Virtue Fusion. Online Bingo was the most rapidly expanding sector, within Online Gaming, in 2008. Looks like the competition is all set to heat up in 2009!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 29/06/2009

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Bingo Tax Backlash!

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 1st July 2009

The government has been ‘giving it’ to the Bingo Industry for some time now. Can’t have this, must pay that, tax, no smoking… Blimey! You’d be better off joining the Foreign legion than joining a local Bingo Hall! No wonder Online Bingo is doing so well, at least you don’t have to go outside for a smoke, and can get plenty of Free Bingo. A luxury Bingo Halls can’t afford to offer these days. In fact, the way things are going, the best you can look forward to is a sneaky fag outside the men’s toilet, a Coke and a couple of games for a tenner!
Well finally, Carlisle Bingo Players have had enough! They have joined the new push to protest and lobby their local MP to stop the new tax hype finishing off their already struggling Bingo Hall forever. While the smoking ban is one thing, (although I don’t see any MP’s changing their big, flash, polluting, asthma inducing, climate changing cars for a nice, practical, eco-friendly model) a 7% raise in tax is another… Hey! What do they care? Without doubt, they’ve kept their pay rises inline with inflation…
Obviously, 15% just isn’t enough to redecorate No. 10 this year, or service those big cars. So, as usual, why not give it to UK Bingo Players? just once more? After all, it’s only fun we’re talking about, and after you’ve worked like a power tool all week to pay local taxes and buy a loaf of bread, who needs a bit of relaxation? We’re just want, want, want ey guys?
Over 1,200 local Bingo Players have written to Eric Martlew, the local MP for Carlisle, to protest about the latest tax hype. Peter Lawton, owner of the Rex Bingo Hall located around the Denton Holme area of Carlisle, stated that they, like many other Bingo Halls in the UK, were already struggling to keep their heads above water. Lawton expects the latest rise will add more than £17,500 to his already substantial tax bill… not exactly peanuts! But that’s probably all he’ll have to look forward to this lunchtime!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Carlise Bingo Player Protest

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Ladbrokes Bingo to the rescue!

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 30th June 2009

A seventy six year old pensioner has been thrown out of Mecca Bingo for organising a day trip to a rival Bingo Hall. Yep! That’s right. Little did the unsuspecting pensioner know, looking for a change of scenery would mark the end of her days at Mecca Bingo. Just as well we don’t function like that with Online Bingo! To be quite honest, words fail me—and that’s a first!
Rose Clemson had been a loyal player at her local Mecca Bingo Hall, in Chester, for fifty years. Rose was organising a coach trip when the Duty Manager at her local Mecca Bingo Hall ordered her to stop her naughtiness! After challenging the manager, both Rose and her seventy three year old hubby were escorted off the premises and both received a lifetime ban from every Mecca establishment in the UK. Since then, Rose has been pining for a game of Bingo, and lucky for her, Ladbrokes, Online Bingo have come to the rescue!
Ladbrokes Bingo have adorned Rose with a fab laptop and the benefit of a monthly Bingo allowance in her account. She will also be bombing around the streets of Chester on a flash new mobility scooter, courtesy of Ladbrokes Bingo! To return the favour, all rose has to do is tell people about her new Online Bingo experience and advise Ladbrokes with regards to their new promotions and games.
A Mecca Bingo spokesperson confirmed that Rose and her hubby were banned, and ‘stressed’ that Mecca don’t “take the decision to bar people lightly”. Hey! Are they SURE about that? Rose can now look forward to her new ‘career’ with Ladbrokes, and enjoy all the benfits Online Bingo has to offer. As Rose puts it herself, “every cloud does have a silver lining”…

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 30/06/2009

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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

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£1.2 Million Mecca Online Bingo Jackpot

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 8th July 2009

Seems like Mecca Bingo are always in the news, for one reason or another, these days, and it certainly seems like that £62 Million Tax Rebate will be coming in handy! Because one lucky player, from Cumbria, has just won £1.2 million playing Online Bingo at the Mecca Bingo website. It has also been confirmed, by Mecca officials, this is the biggest payout, ever, for the Mecca Online Bingo site. A spokesman stated that the company think it’s “fantastic news”. Lynsey Mirehouse thought she’d take a quick spin on Mecca’s ‘Clover Rollover Progressive Jackpot’ slot game, and couldn’t believe her luck when those five lucky shamrocks dropped into place. I bet she couldn’t!
The Mecca Bingo Clover Rollover has been on the rise for months now, and the air has been thick with anticipation among Mecca’s Online Bingo players for a while. Especially since it hit that magical £1 million mark! Lucky Lynsey threw a party at home, and along with hubby, Barry, they celebrated by having a few friends over for drinks. Apparently, they haven’t had much rest since, with the shock. Or is the wine??!!! Lyn, who works for a Workington insurance company, hasn’t decided what to do with the money yet, apart from she’s going to treat her dog! (no mention of the treating hubby - like her style).
Lyn will be receiving her money, from Mecca Bingo superstar, Bingo Dave, in a few weeks time. At a special VIP presentation in London. The Mecca Bingo Clover Rollover has now been reset to a cool quarter of a million… Definitely not to be sniffed at! Like Lyn, you could be the next lucky player to roll over in the clover at Mecca Bingo. But, If you don’t play, there’s no way!!! If you haven’t signed up yet, that’s probably a good sign. Like Lyn, every big winner seems to be new, or nearly new to Online Bingo. So, what you waiting for? It just might be you!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 08/06/2009

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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

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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

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888 Has A Change of Heart

By Lisa West on Friday, 17th July 2009

It wasn’t just an Online Bingo rumour. 888 Bingo and Gaming have definitely been chewing over whether to buy out Cashcade, or not. However, ultimately, it has been confirmed that no deal will be going ahead. Cashcade is the parent company for some of the top Online Bingo websites. Including, Think, Foxy and Cheeky Bingo.
The chief executive of 888 Bingo & Gaming, Gigi Levy stated that other gaming companies were willing to pay more for Cashcade. The big rumour has always been that 888 Bingo don’t have the capital to seal the deal.
This has been revoked by Levy, who stated that it wasn’t they didn’t have the finances. It was that they simply were not willing to “ pay the price” Cashcade were asking for.
With 888 Bingo and Gaming now out of the bidding, the competition should hot up. Who will be sealing the deal with Cashcade? How will that affect Online Bingo Players? It is thought that it will be Party Gaming who will be acquiring Cashcade. Apparently, it’s just down to sorting the paperwork. Independent News and Media hold sixteen percent of shares in Cashcade. They have been having a few financial problems of late, and so are very keen to get the deal finalised as soon as possible.
It seems 888 Online Bingo will continue to use the Cashcade software, and have already signed up for another two year contract. Globalcom, a division of 888 Bingo and Gaming, provides the software for over eighty percent of Cashcades Bingo Sites. Therefore, Cascade is an important income earner for Globalcom. Another division of 888 is Dragon Fish. They have been busy lately, making new deals with various ‘white label’ partners. However, the new owners of Cashcade will be able to use other platforms, for any of new sites they operate. This could cause problems for 888, but ultimately, only time will tell.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 17/07/2009

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Keeping Sharp with Bingo!

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 22nd July 2009

They say keeping happy is the secret to staying young (begs the question? why are we spending a small fortune on all those creams ? ) Maybe there is some truth it that. Well, there’s a least one Bingo player who believes that’s true, anyway. For Sally Melia, a hundred and three year old lady from Liverpool, her beloved game of Bingo keeps her sharp, and smiling. Sally has been a big Bingo fan for years, forty three to be exact! Well, this birthday, Sally’s friends, down at her local Mecca Bingo Hall, decided to give her a big surprise party.

Both friends and Mecca Bingo staff put in a lot of effort, to make this birthday, one of the best Sally’s ever had. Sally retired thirty eight years ago, and has been making the most of her time, playing Bingo, since her retirement. Now Sally’s reached the ripe old age of one hundred and three, she is officially the oldest regular Bingo player, at any of the Mecca Bingo Halls in the UK. Sally is still hoping to win the Jackpot, one day, and believes Bingo keeps her active.

It’s always nice to hear good news, happy endings and the like. Plus, it’s not like the bingo Halls couldn’t do with some of that lately. This actually highlights just how important the local Bingo Halls are. Not just to sally, but to many people. When they shut down, some people are left with few alternatives, and lose a big part of their social lives. Others, lose their jobs. Every Saturday, Sally is taken to the Mecca in Knotty Ash, Liverpool, by her son, Bill. Here, she is treated like a queen and loves every minute of it! Sally says she would be lost without her Bingo Hall. Seems like the feeling is mutual!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 22/06/09

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Parlay is Spreading their Bingo Wings!

By Lisa West on Thursday, 23rd July 2009

To date, Parlay Entertainment have become one of the most popular Online Bingo software providers around. But it seems they have no intentions of leaving it there! Parlay Entertainment have decided to spread their Bingo wings to North America. Their new North American division will be known as Parlay Gaming Services, and the software they provide with be slightly different to the UK. In order to stay inline with the states regulations.

Parlay have decided to make the new software available for clients to try out, in a bid to gain new clients, and hopefully, wow some new ones! Gaming businesses and land based Bingo Operators will be able to link up with the software, and make it available to their players. Parlay have high hopes for the new venture, and have provided a good range of Bingo Games, Instants and Slots. Bingo Hall members will be able to use the games and join in with the Chat. Looks like a great way to get the Online Bingo and land based players all together. One great, big Bingo Community. Very innovative!

Parley Entertainment Chief Exec, Scott White, said that the company was “very excited” about the new software, and it’s potential. One client is already in the bag, signed and sealed, and Parlay are hoping that there will me many more to follow. N-one knows who the client is yet, Parlay are keeping mum until the Online Bingo site is launched Parlay were the very first software developer to get commercial Bingo, up and running on the internet. Their software has the 90, 80 and 75ball Bingo games, in addition to a good selection of casino games. A top Bingo software, which is used by some of the leading names in the industry. Parlay have always done well in the past, and there’s no reason to think this latest venture won’t work out. A company definitely going from strength to strength.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 23/07/2009

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Tombola are officially the most visited UK Online Bingo Website!

By Lisa West on Sunday, 26th July 2009

It’s official! Tombola Bingo is the most visited UK Online Bingo website. Can’t help wondering, how the Sun Bingo head honchos are taking the news. Of course, you have to take into account, when they split from Tombola, about a year ago now, it was Tombola who kept all the members. There has been a lot of hearsay to date, with regards to who is actually the busiest UK Online Bingo website. Although a lot of people in the industry already thought Tombola Bingo was top, now, it has been proved that’s true. The research was carried out by Hitwise, so it'is fairly conclusive and comprehensive.

Tombola Bingo have scheduled a BIG seven MILLION pound promotional push for next month. No doubt, in a bid to ensure they don’t lose that very notable title! So, what makes Tombola the most logged into UK Online Bingo website? There’s no doubt about it, they do dosh out a mountain of cash every week. THREE MILLION in fact! If you haven’t signed up yet, right now Tombola are offering a 100% Cash match on the first deposit. Sorry… no free cash without handing over some cash! The minimum deposit is £10, and the maximum cash match you’ll get is £25. Seen better, but it’s not bad!

A lot of people like the fact that the games at Tombola Bingo are exclusive. They don’t use anyone the software of anyone else, and since the split with the Sun Bingo, neither does anyone else use theirs! Tombola also keep the regulars happy by keeping their promotions fresh and frequent. Adding new games on a regular basis. With more than forty Chat rooms available, Chat Games are BIG at Tombola. This is an Online Bingo website that is renowned for their lively Bingo community. No doubt, another reason why they have become the most visited UK Online Bingo website!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 26/07/09

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Cashcade SOLD for £96 Million!

By Lisa West on Saturday, 25th July 2009

When 888 Bingo confirmed they would not be buying Cashcade, the whole Bingo Industry began buzzing with speculation. So who would be taking over Cashcade? There were a lot of people putting their money on Party gaming, and as it turns out, they were completely right to do so. Cashcade are the parent company of several big name Online Bingo websites, which includes the legendary Mr Foxy Bingo and the Queen of Free Bingo, Miss Cheeky. Apparently, 888 pulled out of the deal because they were not willing to pay the huge asking price for Cashcade. Seems no-one was exaggerating, because PartyGaming had to cough up just short of £96Million, to seal the deal. An absolutely incredible amount.

Both Cashcade and PartyGaming are said to be very happy with the deal. But Independent News & Media are probably the most relieved of all. They hold 16% of Cashcade and have been having a few financial problems of late. Without doubt, this deal should be making their money troubles a thing of the past! The Managing Director for Cashcade stated that this had provided a “substantial opportunity” for them, within the Online Bingo Industry. Jim Ryan, the PartyGaming Chief Executive was also very positive about the future. He stated that this had provided the company with “an excellent platform to build a meaningful share of the, one and a half billion dollar, global online Bingo market."

Cashcade were established in 1999, and have achieved a lot since then. Becoming one of the leading Online Bingo operators in the UK. Together, with Party Gaming, they seem destined to dominate. It is estimated that people will be spending around $2.5Billion, playing Online Bingo within the next three years. Almost thirty percent of global figures is accounted for within the UK market. Well above any other country. Seems us Brits just love to play Bingo. Was there ever any doubt?

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 25/07/09

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Jackpot Joy - Staying Ahead of the Competition.

By Lisa West on Monday, 27th July 2009

Jackpot Joy have always been big in the world of Online Bingo. However, it seems they just aren’t big enough! It was announced, not so long ago, that Jackpot Joy had dropped their existing advertising agency, and decided to look elsewhere. Of course, there were a lot of agencies hoping to bag this highly lucrative contract. No doubt, prepared to claw each others eyes out in the process! However, in the end, it came down to a head to head between Campbell Lace Beta, and Publicis. It has now been confirmed, Campbell Lace Beta are Jackpot Joy’s new Bingo Marketing Agency.

Campbell Lace Beta were up against some tough competition. But at least that proves, they can handle it! And they will need to… The UK Online Bingo Industry is worth millions. Jackpot Joy alone have paid OUT more than £75Million in prizes over the last twelve months. They were first launched in 2002, and since then, Jackpot Joy have become one of the top sites in the UK. Hordes of players already login regularly to play, but Jackpot Bingo bosses are hoping that Campbell Lace Beta will get them even more. The Online Bingo Industry is fiercely competitive, and even with a already established brand name, like Jackpot Joy, Campbell Lace will have their work cut out.

Campbell Lace are the new kids on the block. They haven’t even been around for a year yet! However, they have already bagged themselves two of the most lucrative contracts around, and up for grabs this year. It was only only a week ago when Thomas Cook were signing them up. In barely time to let the ink dry, they went on to sign with Jackpot Joy. Without doubt, it has been quite a week for Gary Lace and Robert Campbell. The two guys who launched the company. It will be interesting to see what they come up with. Hopefully!
This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 27/07/09

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Jack Looks Set to take the Bingo World by Storm.

By Lisa West on Friday, 31st July 2009

Wow! Looks like the UK Bingo Halls have another problem on their hands. Introducing, Jacks Live Bingo! A seriously cool, live, interactive Online Bingo website. It’s new, it’s innovative, and it looks like it’s going to be a BIG hit. Jacks Live Bingo is the only Online Bingo website of it’s kind, in the world. And now, it’s available in the UK. From 9am in the morning, until 1am, in the early hours, you can enjoy LIVE Bingo, seven days a week, without having to leave your living room.

Join Jacks Live Bingo and they will give you a 100% cash match bonus on your first deposit. Once you do that, the Bingo world is your oyster! Players from both sides of the globe are already logging in to this highly innovative Online Bingo Hall. The Bingo Callers can chat with players, via a live video stream, and you even get a big ‘Hello’, when you join in. You wouldn’t get that at your local Bingo Hall!! This is a seriously virtual Bingo World, where you can enjoy all the banter and all the atmosphere of your local Bingo Hall, but online.

Tickets are available from just 1p, which is absolutely incredible, given how top notch the site is. You wouldn’t get them prices at your local Bingo Hall either! Each of the callers are online for an hour, which keeps the games fresh, and the atmosphere buzzing. Plus, the promotions just keep on coming a Jack’s place. They include Free Bingo, special Chat Games, Team Bingo and even the good ole ‘Family Fortunes’ is on offer here. So far, the response to this new Online Bingo gaming experience has been phenomenal, and there are a lot of good reasons why that is. This is one new Online Bingo website that looks set to take the entire Bingo world by storm.
This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 31/07/09

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It's not the winning that REALLY counts.....

By Lisa West on Thursday, 6th August 2009

With all the recent ooos and aaahhhhs going on in the Online Bingo Industry just lately, the battle to stay on top has become a rigorous one. Long gone are the days when a good old fashioned ‘sign up war’ was enough to sort the men from the boys! Today, papa has to find himself a new bag. However, for the players, all this competition can only mean good news. 888ladies have had their fair share of ‘pats on the back’, from the industry, of late. With a decent assortment of awards being sent their way. And for 888ladies, this seems like just the incentive they needed.

In a new drive, to make sure they don’t just fade away into the land of ‘been there, done that’, 888Ladies have now added another 17 new Instants to their line up. This is a very popular side game with regular 888Ladies players. So there’s little doubt, this latest move is an endeavour to keep their players happy, and not looking elsewhere. Tombola Bingo have also claimed a fair share of the limelight just lately. Now, official wearers of the ‘Most Players’ crown ( and revelling in it right now!). Not to be out-shined, Foxy have also added another 20 new Bingo rooms, (even though they already had forty), giving them the ‘Most Rooms’ title. Without doubt, it looks like new tactics are in play!

Today, players have so much variety on offer, and a generous sign up package is virtually mandatory these days. Together, they make it very tempting (and easy) for players to try out new territory. Especially if their regular haunt happens to be a bit lacking of late. So, it looks like the top brand Online Bingo operators are going all out to make sure that doesn’t happen. In the long run, that will allow Bingo communities to build a more solid foundation, and develop the way they should. Ultimately, it’s down to the Online Bingo operators to keep things fresh, if they want to keep their players coming back for more. Not rest on their laurels, so to speak… let’s hope that the positive drive continues. It’s always so much more exciting than complacency!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 06/08/09

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More Options at Chit Chat Bingo

By Lisa West on Saturday, 8th August 2009

Finally, St Minver have cut an all essential deal with Paypal, which means players can now use it to top up their Online Bingo accounts. St Minver have a whole network of sites, which includes Littlewoods, love Bingo and Bingo Joy. Apparently, it won’t be long before their main site, Chit Chat Bingo will have the new payment facility available, a matter of days even. With the others in the network following close behind, over the new month or so.

Despite the fact that around 23Million people use Paypal in the UK, you may have noticed how Paypal isn’t one of the more available ‘alternative’ payment options available, when it come’s to UK Online Bingo websites that is. Many of those who already use the service began their accounts when they signed up for eBay. The connection? Paypal is owned by eBay!

Paypal have been known to be fairly picky, when it comes to which Bingo Operators they will allow to use their service. St Minver recently bought world lottery operator Gtech. This might well be why, only now, they have actually been given the go ahead. Any which way, without doubt, it’s certain to work out in everyone’s interest. Chit Chat Bingo do not require a credit card to register, and give new players a £1 Free bonus to get them off the mark. No deposit required. With the new Paypal facility, depositing at Chit Chat has just gotten really easy for players without credit cards.

They offer a 100% cash match Bonus on first deposits, from £10 to £125 and 50% on the second deposit; up to £65. Chit Chat Bingo are not big on Free Bingo, but they are big on Progressive Jackpots and promotions. They also have penny bingo on Wednesday and lots of new side games have just been thrown into the mix. If the deposit options have put you off in the past, maybe the new addition of Paypal, and the generous welcome bonuses, just might make it worth reconsidering!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 08/08/09

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New deal for Gala Coral

By Lisa West on Sunday, 9th August 2009

Gaming Technology Solutions have been signed up by Gala Coral, to try and help the company improve its portfolio. Gaming Technology provide solutions for Online Gaming Operators throughout Europe. The GTS software, EdGE, will be integrated into Gala Coral’s current platform. This means several of Gala Coral’s current gaming websites, which includes Gala Bingo, will have a selection of new games on offer.

GTS claim that the EdGE Platform will be cost effective for Gala Coral, and should mean that the games are easier to manage. Without doubt, amidst all the rumours with regards to the finances of Gala Coral, cost effective should be highly appealing to the company. Gala Bingo are among the big brand names of the UK Online Bingo Industry. Of course, they still have land based clubs, although, not as many as they used to. Over the last twelve months, it seems Gala Bingo have made nothing short of a determined effort, to reduce their land based operations. Concentrating on their TV and Online Bingo endeavours, with gusto!

According to certain media sources, Gala Coral are nursing debts, which range around the £2.5Billion mark. The joint owners of Gala Coral have already pumped a £100Million into the company, in an attempt to install some financial stability. However, it is reported that they cannot, or won’t, be throwing any more into the kitty. Also, the Royal bank of Scotland, Gala Coral’s chief lender, have ordered the sale of certain sectors of the business, in an attempt to balance the books. An allegation that has been denied by the group itself.

Gala Bingo has certainly been receiving a big promotional push just recently, especially the Gala TV Online Bingo club. All sorts of re-organising and big names being brought in, to hook the interest of Online players. Who knows? Maybe the side shuffle, into the world of celebrities, will be exactly what Gala Bingo needs. After all, a bit of the old ‘magic’ celebrity dust never did anyone any harm!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 09/08/09

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Ladbrokes Join Gibraltar Exodus

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 11th August 2009

As can only be expected, Ladbrokes have decided to take their custom elsewhere, as are their big rivals William Hill. The tax hike from the government was supposed to be a way to get more revenue into the treasury, and whether that be ‘fair play’ or not, the government brought it in anyway. As it turns out, it looks like that decision is actually going to cost the treasury millions, not bring in more. Offshore operators, do not have to pay the sky high 22% tax rate, for their online gambling operations. PartyGaming and 32Red already operate from Gibraltar, and low taxation is the primary reason for that. Hence, two of the biggest gambling operators in the UK have also decided to put their fortunes there.

Ladbrokes run over two thousand betting offices throughout the UK, and have reported losses and poor profit margins hitting their business, since the recession. Figures show a downturn of almost 4% on revenue in the first six months of this year. If they excluded their high rollers, and just took into account their every day betting figures, that reduction would be more than 25%.

The move should save Ladbrokes, who are now brand leaders for Online Bingo, in excess of £7million. Since Ladbrokes made the announcement, that they would be moving offshore, shares have risen more than 2%. Looks like the shareholders and investors will be happier than the treasury! In stark contrast to the millions the treasury will now be out of pocket, very few, only a handful, of UK jobs will be lost. The world chief exec of Ladbrokes stated that “competitive pressures” were becoming “intense”, and that running operations in the UK had now become “unsustainable”. Ladbrokes already has various sectors of it’s online betting operating from Gibraltar. The move is planned for the end of the year.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on 11/08/09

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Sun Bingo No1 Advertiser

By Lisa West on Saturday, 15th August 2009

Latest figures show that Online Bingo is a billion dollar industry worldwide, worth hundreds of millions in the UK alone. A lot of effort is spent on advertising, you only have to take a look a the TV Advert war to see that. Among the big brand names right now, they even have publicity about their publicity! With new Bingo websites being launched at the time, plus the latest onslaught of Free Bingo, the competition is no laughing matter! If these companies want to stay ahead, they have to find a way to attract new members, and, of course, keep them loyal. Without doubt, these companies are spending a lot on marketing, but have you ever wondered exactly how much?

To stay ahead, they need to keep players coming back, and a lot of that will be down to good promotions and good games, jackpots, rewards. However, in the first instance, effective advertising is the only way to get them registered in the first place. Global consumer, product and research company, Mintel, recently looked into how much was being spent on marketing by the Online Bingo portals. The figures are incredible. Cashcade, William Hill, Gala and Sun Bingo were the top four spenders. Between them, they spent £10Million last year. The overall No1 is The Sun Bingo, who spent £3.2 Million. Close behind them were Cashcade, who spent £3Million. Gala Bingo came out third, spending £2.3Million, and the least spent by the top four was £1.6Million, by William Hill. The top four together, spent twice as much as the other 20, top Online Bingo websites researched.

What is surprising, when you look at the figures, is that other big brand name companies, like Party Gaming and Think, spent less than £1Million. In comparison, a relatively small amount. Mecca Bingo was even lower, only shelling out just over £340,000 on marketing. The research by Mintel stated that this was “an indication” of the recent power shifts among the Bingo Operators. Concluding that those top four big brands accounted for “67% of main media spending”.

This was an article by Lisa on Sun Bingo Marketing

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Get Socially Interactive with Wink Bingo

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 18th August 2009

Wink Bingo have not been around, on the Online Bingo circuit, for long. In comparison to many of their leading competitors, that is. Relatively speaking, they have been quick off the mark to establish themselves up there, with the big boys. Proven, as not an operators to let the moss grow under their feet, or dismiss opportunity! They have just as swift as keeping up with the Jones’, and launched themselves into the social networking scene. Recently, a Twitter link was added to the home page. Now, loyal players just have to add the Wink Bingo link to their Twitter list, to follow all their latest promotions.

A lot of people have since made use of the facility, but not all players Twitter! So, not to leave anyone out, Wink Bingo have now gone one step further and set up a Facebook Fan Page. Facebook is among the world’s leading Social networking websites. It is completely interactive, offering a tonne of community features and shareware applications for members. Players don’t have to be a member at face book to access the Wink Fan Page. However, there are some great incentives to join up! Including a free Bingo ticket, and a trivia competition to win 10 tickets for the up and coming, ‘Big O’, £25.000 Guaranteed Jackpot game.

Wink Bingo has a good following of loyal players, and have some great promotions going on. Including Free and 1p Bingo! The Free Bingo starts at 6pm, in the 90Ball Free & Easy room, and the 75Ball Birthday Suit room. The games are on for 2hrs, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday is 1p Bingo time! The games start in the Pennies From heaven Room at 8pm, and run through to 10pm. New players are given a £15 no deposit welcome bonus. Make a minimum initial deposit of £5, and they get a 200% bonus, up to a maximum of £100. On top of that, Wink also give players 50% on all reloads. All in all, definitely worth trying out a bit of social networking!

This was an article by Lisa on Wink bingo Networking

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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

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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

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Moody Research for Bingo Halls

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 25th August 2009

The latest financial predictions, for the future of the UK Bingo industry, are about as optimistic as you might imagine. Moody is one of the UK’s leading credit agencies. According to their figures, the latest government tax hike could easily be thee writing on the wall for many of the smaller bingo operators. That might seem like a fairly rudimentary, and somewhat superfluous statement. Especially after all the petitions and protests against the 7% rise. It was pointed out a zillions times, it was highly debateable, as to whether the UK’s land based bingo halls could take the financial strain. Many of them were already suffering from lower attendance, since the introduction of the smoking ban.

Moody’s research specifically points out the possibility of smaller operators falling foul of the new tax rate. Their results were based upon an analysis for the Rank Group, who are among the leading gaming operators of Europe. They are based in the UK, and their primary business activities is bingo halls and casinos. The Rank Group are the parent company of Mecca Bingo. To date, their online gaming and bookmaking concerns were considered complementary; although not secondary. It will be interesting to see if this report sways that balance.

The Moody report concluded that the 7% rise would render the land based bingo industry “volatile”. Just look around at the latest bingo news, and you can see just how unstable things have become. Even the bingo halls who have, so far, managed to keep their heads above water, understand this may be a short lived respite. A mere calm before the storm. Moody also point out: While the recent victory, by Rank, over the UK Vat man, may install a certain amount of breathing space for the company, the victory was not yet conclusive. HMRC have lodged an appeal, and even if it is rebuked, it will still be a long while before Rank see the refund. Either way, it doesn’t look like the smaller bingo halls have little to look forward to.

This was an article by lisa for bingo faces on UK Bingo Halls

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Free Play Phenomenon - Destined For A Fall?

By Lisa West on Monday, 24th August 2009

When Cheeky Bingo arrived, players simply couldn’t believe their luck! Finally, a free bingo website that actually offered real cash prizes. Not just a fluffy teddy bear after 6months of winning jackpots! Combining free games with paid games has become a big hit. However, it does seem to be more of a hit for free players, in comparison to depositing members. In fact, the stats are implying, a third of players are now logging into the free play websites on a regular basis.

This creates several problems for the operators. The cash pots are a percentage of the money wagered in the paid games. So, the money from the paid player pots is being dwindled by the free games. That mean’s they are going to be upsetting their paying players, and without them? If the operators take the slack themselves, it will dig into revenue. Which means, they will have all the expenses of running the site, advertising, PLUS have to part with more of their precious coffers for prize money. Either way, free bingo will be draining someone’s pockets!

This, in turn creates another problem. The paying players are getting less for their money. Now, we are also seeing a raise in stakes, as the big boys battle it out for a top position. In a matter of months, the cash pots have quadrupled and more! Players can even find free games around, with hundreds of pounds in prize money up for grabs. Ultimately, it all begs a couple of questions. Where is it all going? And, what is it actually achieving? Are free games simply providing a slippery slope to no-man’s land? If the players stop depositing, how will the operators actually make any money? Sooner or later, something will have to give, or be taken away! Nevertheless, players may as well enjoy the offer…. While it lasts!!!

This was an article by lisa for bingo faces on free bingo

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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

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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

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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

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Online Bingo Operators Facing A New Problem?

By Lisa West on Saturday, 29th August 2009

This time it is the online Bingo Operators who are going to have to ride the wave of change. I’m sure that will make a refreshing change for the land based Bingo Hall operators, to see the “others” getting some flack! A new security move by Mastercard could have a significant backlash on the Online operators. Mastercard are introducing a new state of the art online secure payment system, to be known as Secure 3D. The new verification system is not just something that will be required for Bingo websites, it will be required to complete many online transactions, for various services and purchases.

The new Secure 3D is a “secure code verification” system, which cardholders will have to join up for the “Mastercard Secure Code Service”. If they don’t, their transactions will be refused. The system is not complicated, similar to having a ’chip and pin’, just online. Effectively, it is a password. Now, that all seems innocent enough, and easy enough too. However!! Where the Mastercard plan becomes less than masterful, is that not all the banks have agreed to go along with the scheme. This means, if your bank is one of them, you have two choices. Abandon Online Bingo, or abandon your bank! Lol! Without doubt, this could cause a major ‘glitch in the program’ for online operators.

Of course, it’s not expected that people will abandon Online Bingo, most will go find a bank that has joined up. However, that could take time, and so it looks like it, inevitably, revenue will be lost. Akin to the land based Bingo Halls, smaller Online Bingo Operators will be sure to feel the blow the most. As to what extent the damage will be, or even if there will be any long term affects, it is impossible to predict. Although it is possible to hypothesize. So far, the Online Bingo Operators have, pretty much, had it their own way. This looks like the first glitch they have had to deal with, so far. Even so, they say things come in threes… it did for the Bingo Halls. Let’s just hope, the kill joys down at Westminster, are satisfied with their spoils so far. Lol

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

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ASA Online Bingo Advertising Clamp Down

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 1st September 2009

I don’t know about you, but I hate it when the publicity says one thing, and the small print says another. On my travels around the online bingo circuit, I have come across various online operators who have been, shall we say, somewhat conservative when it comes to the facts. I’ve signed up, rubbing my hands together with glee, in sweet anticipation of my free tenner, which should miraculously appear in my bingo balance; without handing over a penny! Then, as I reach for my dabber, with bated breath and rising anticipation, I discover…. I can only play for fun… It’s such a letdown ( bl***y annoying too! )

Thankfully, it looks like ASA have finally turned their attention to the online bingo industry. Who, quite frankly, have been getting away with it, while the bingo halls have been feeling the heat from all directions! Bingo Hero are a relatively new website, owned and operated by Cheblis; a Cypriot company. The gripe from ASA is about their “£15 Free - No Deposit Required”, publicity to attract new players. After a complaint was lodged, ASA agreed that the publicity was misleading. Why? The winnings from the money cannot be withdrawn. Therefore, the “Free Money” is deemed “Fun Money”… not the real kind, that you get to buy new dabbers with!

It is not that they cannot make this kind of offer, it’s just that they have to make their offer clearer. Bingo Hero did add a *terms and conditions… even so, that’s not enough to ‘cut the mustard’ with the ASA! They want it made 100% clear from the off, without the need to check out the small print. Personally, I agree 100%! It’s about time. To not take action on such misleading publicity seems out of sorts, considering ASA recently clamped down on Tombola, so very hard. Not even for misleading the public, but simply for having a theme that might appeal to younger people. Tombola took the decision very well; piled in a tonne of money to revamp, and did a great job. The latest clamp down on Bingo Hero should push other online bingo operators into some straight talking, and it’s about time!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo faces on the online bingo advertsing clampdown

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Free Bingo Revolution..Or Devolution?

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 2nd September 2009

When UK Bingo Players first caught the headlines for Cheeky Bingo, they could hardly contain themselves. Free Bingo, Real Cash.. Whoop! Whoop! Even so, was anybody really prepared for, or have an inkling, as to just how HUGE free bingo websites would become? And in such a very short space of time.

The Online Bingo community has gone absolutely nutty for it! Even when there are five hundred players, all going for a £1 pot, they will keep coming back for more. There seems little doubt, when you think about that, Online Bingo is still a social game. Just like it was in the old days!

There have been hundreds of new Free Bingo websites popping up, since Cheeky Bingo. Plus, a lot of the big brand names have started laying on the free games a lot more. Even so, the main contenders seem to be Cheeky Bingo, Costa Bingo, and the recently launched, Foxy Zero. A report for June’s figures indicate that 31% of the total, online bingo action, is in the free bingo rooms. Despite the fact that many of the games offer relatively small prize pots. In January, this figure was a lowly 3%. That’s a big swing in the free play direction.

So, it looks like there's a free bingo revolution going on among players, and an online bingo war among operators! Interesting situation.... As to why this has happened?? Well, it surely has to be a combination of things. Regardless, bottom line is; if people have no money, it doesn’t matter how good the thing is you're selling. They can’t buy it!

Clearly, the recession has a lot to answer for. A lot of players simply cannot afford a night out at their local Bingo Hall. Online Bingo is the economical option. Plus now, with the introduction of free play bingo sites, players really do get to have their cake and eat it! How many of the pay to play sites can survive the change, has yet to be seen.

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

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Parlay Entertainment Exodus

By Lisa West on Thursday, 3rd September 2009

Tthere are many different operators in the world of online bingo; regardless of whether they are small fry, or big boys, all of them are free to choose any bingo software, platform provider. Just lately, many of the larger operators have been swapping around, in what seems like, a big game of musical ‘bingo’ chairs. Parlay Entertainment have definitely been getting the rough end of the stick of late. Both Virgin Bingo and Paddy Power made the switch, over to Virtue Fusion. On top of that, Gala Bingo, whose main site is currently using the Parlay software, opted to launch Minxy Bingo - Gala Bingo’s sister site - on the Virtue Fusion Platform. So, pretty much, it has been one blow after another, for Parlay Entertainment. Even so, unfortunately for them, it doesn’t look like it’s stopping there. Bingo Boogie have just announced, they will also be swapping over to the Virtue Fusion software.

With such a clear and decisive mass exodus, away from Parlay, in favour of Virtue Fusion, it begs the question. What exactly is the issue here? The general consensus among players seems to indicate that the Virtue Fusion platform is higher quality. Even so, that’s not to say they don’t enjoy playing the Parlay Bingo Games. Eyes Down Bingo run the newest version of the Parlay software. It wasn’t launched all that long ago and has already built up a good sized bingo community. In which case, Parlay must be doing something right!

For a while, rumours have been flying around the bingo industry. The big rumour being that the National Bingo Game might be launching into online bingo. But the even bigger rumour is that only sites with Virtue Fusion will be able to step in on the action. That could be why Bingo Boogie and so many others have decided to swap. However, it could simply be that they like Virtue Fusion more. Either way, it looks like stormy seas ahead for Parlay Entertainment, especially if those rumours turn out to be true.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Parlay Entertainment

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Roll Up For The National Bingo Game!

By Lisa West on Friday, 4th September 2009

The National Bingo Game came into affect across the country, at Bingo Halls, in June 1986. It was a great hit with many players, mainly because the jackpots were massive. Not only that but they were linked with other bingo clubs up and down the UK. Whichever player was the first to shout Bingo! With the least amount of numbers, was entitled to the National Bingo Game jackpot prize.

Introduced in 1986, parliament brought in a new legislation called the Bingo Act. The introduction of this legislation made it possible for players to take part in The National Bingo Game everyday of the year, twice a day. Gala Bingo and Mecca Bingo were two of the biggest brand names to join up. Although, it was played at most land based, UK Bingo Halls.

2008 brought round some big changes in the Gala Bingo Halls. They dropped the National Bingo Game, so they could introduce a new membership style game, for their own regular players. Of course, this made the odds of winning the National Bingo Game much better. All the more for everyone else!

Plenty of independent Bingo Halls played the National Bingo Games everyday, but maybe the best known name for the National Bingo Game is Mecca Bingo. The price of tickets varies, but it's only 25p for the afternoon game, and in the evening you can play for just £1.

The National Bingo Game offers a range of different prizes, depending on whether it is the weekend or a weekday. It also depends on whether the sessions are in the afternoon or the evening. The National Bingo Game has a National and Regional prize. Both of which, the winning player is the National Player to shout Bingo! first, with the lowest amount of numbers; The same for the Regional Player prixe. First to shout Bingo! With the fewest amount of numbers walks off with the goodies. So, if you have always been an online player, why not get along to your local Bingo Hall? and join in with the fun! It’s the ONLY place you can play.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on the National Bingo Game

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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

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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

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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

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Abandoned Bingo Halls Do Have A Future

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 8th September 2009

With so many of the land based Bingo Halls closing down, there’s been a lot of holes left in the UK high streets; Never good. Who likes to see the place looking like a ghost town? In April, Mecca Bingo closed the doors to their Swindon club. Many of the locals believed the old building would be pulled down. This was dismissed by the local council, and it looks like, on this occasion, someone was telling the truth! Plans have now been forwarded, to turn the old Mecca Bingo building into a Music Hall. If approved, it should get the official go ahead within the next six months.

Thankfully, there have been some determined (and somewhat brave) businessmen taking over the old Bingo Halls. Churches too! According to a report published in a local Swindon newspaper, “This is Wiltshire” (who are part of the Newsquest Media Group), a “Mystery Backer” is behind the new proposal and plans have already been submitted. If given the go ahead, the old Mecca Bingo Hall is set to metamorphose into a Regent Circus Music Hall, capable of accommodating more than a thousand people. That should certainly blow some new life into the old building, and the people of Swindon too!

Phil Young, Councillor for Swindon’s ‘Culture & Regeneration’ cabinet, supports the proposals. He stated that the council were hoping to finish repairs to the building by early next year. Young believes that “everyone would welcome a music venue in the town centre”. Primarily, because the idea for the building to be used as a Music Hall venue, came directly from market research in the town.

Undeniably, the number of Bingo Halls is on the decrease. Even so, according to a recent player report, the amount of people playing the game is on the rise. Despite one of the worse recessions ever recorded. Some players are travelling notable distances, just to play their favourite game. There is little doubt, there’s still plenty of people who are making the effort, to play at their local Bingo Hall - even when that hall isn’t quite so local as it used to be!

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

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Brits Use Bingo Chat Rooms To Reduce Stress

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 9th September 2009

The world of Bingo has been under scrutiny for some time now, both in the press, and by a seemingly endless barrage of market researchers. Yet another survey has been carried out, but this time, it reveals much more than a list of statistics. The survey was carried out by a respected Online Bingo comparison site, and is based upon the responses of more than one thousand people. The survey revealed that one in six people are turning to chat rooms, as a way to find support, for the escalating problems that most Brits are currently facing.

Of course, the current economic meltdown is causing a lot of people financial problems. Money worries was top of the ‘stress list’, affecting more than 70%, of the one thousand people who took part in the survey. This must be a prominent factor, when considering the popularity of Free Bingo websites. Here, players have the perfect opportunity to beat the credit crunch, and share their troubles. As they say, “A problem shared is a problem halved”.

More than 78%, of those questioned, stated that playing online games, like Bingo, allowed them to wind down. They also emphasised that the social network, available through such gaming websites, was an underlining factor, as to why they were able to achieve that. The survey found that one of the top ways people chose to de-stress, was by talking to friends; with around 40% of those people, preferring to talk in a chat room.

The survey also revealed why people prefer to talk in chat rooms. Almost 50% said that it was easier to make friends there, and almost as many, felt more at ease. Therefore, were more open about their problems. With money worries gripping the nation, more and more people are looking toward the online chat rooms and gaming websites, as way to relax and make friends. This survey does a lot to reveal why the Free Bingo websites are becoming so popular. It also seems, providing chat rooms and team games, and a good socially interactive base for players, has never been so important.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Bingo Chat Rooms

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Low Returns For 888 - $11million Written Off

By Lisa West on Thursday, 10th September 2009

It’s not just the land based Bingo Halls who are facing low returns. The half yearly reports for the 888ladies have been released, and unfortunately for them, it’s not looking good. The 888ladies online Bingo website has long been considered one of the most popular on the net. That’s why, a report that their profits are down by 43%, compared to last year, comes as somewhat of a surprise. The 888 group run both B2B (business to business) and B2C (business to customer) operations. Rather curiously, the disclosed revenues do not include Bingo, only the revenue from the online poker and casino games.

888 Profits have dropped by $11million, from twenty six in the first six months of last year, to $15million, in the first six months of this year. Overall income, from all operations has seen a drop of thirteen percent, down to $118million. Gigi Levy is CEO for 888, and she remains optimistic about the future, despite the downturn. Levy blames the decline on the current problems within the economy, stating that “consumer sentiment is still weak” and the downturn reflects that “currencies remain volatile”. Indeed, while figures reveal a 21% reduction in the 888ladies B2C operations, their B2B operations have gone up significantly, by 42%. Levy believes, the figures demonstrate “the strength of the combined business model” and that the 888 company are “ an innovative and comprehensive B2B service provider” who are “trading solidly.”

Gigi Levy is, most definitely, remaining positive. Even so, it is odd, and more than a little intriguing, that Bingo was only mentioned in the reports “Operational Highlights”. Just a brief on the new 888ladies TV advertising campaign. Along with the mention of two new, extensive, poker leagues, recently launched down under and in the UK: A live online casino for European players: Plus, a big feature, newly designed Poker game, and a fast play games suite. 888 don’t seem to be giving much away, despite the report. But then, that seems to be the main ‘game play’ for most of the online Bingo Operators at the moment.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces On 888ladies

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UK Gambling Commission Reveal - UK Bingo Is Moving Onwards And Upwards

By Lisa West on Friday, 11th September 2009

It is a curious world we live in, but the world of Bingo is even more curious! While, on one hand, we have seen hundreds of UK Bingo Halls close; The latest report from the UK gambling Commission reveals, ticket sales are up 4.6% on last year. Bingo Revenue figures for 2008/2009 are up by £74million, from £1620million in 2007/2008. Considering the state of the economy, the smoking ban, raised Bingo taxes, and the onslaught of bargain priced Online Bingo, that could be considered a victory. Regardless of how marginal a victory that might seem to be, the fact is, land based Bingo prevails!

When checking out the figures, there is something which strikes a chord. According to the UK Gambling Commission, as of March 31st this year, the amount of licensed clubs in the UK has dropped by just 34, from 675 to 641. This means, in reality, the number of Bingo Halls in the UK has gone down by just 5%. This may indicate, the world of land based Bingo has been shifted, more than it has been depleted. In addition, up until March 31st last year, the Gambling Commission had licensed 2166 operators. This year, that figure was down by fifty eight. That is a drop of 3%, again, probably not as dramatic as many first thought. Although certainly, still more than most would like to see.

The UK Gambling Industry grossed £84Billion, from 2006 to 2007. From that, operators grossed almost £10million. Just 25% of that income was generated by the UK National Lottery. Despite all the problems both Gala (24.4%) and Mecca (15.9%) have been facing, and the closures, they remain the top two Bingo Hall operators in the UK. Together, they own just over forty percent of all the land based Bingo halls in the UK. Therefore, should Gala Bingo fold, that will be a quarter of the land based Bingo Halls wiped out, over night.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo faces on UK Bingo Halls

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Community Bingo - Taking It Home To Texas

By Lisa West on Saturday, 12th September 2009

It is incredible what a game of Bingo can achieve. Especially today, with our high tech, interactive, all singing, all dancing, state of the art - am I overdoing it here??? - well, you get the picture! Technology and the internet has added a new dimension to the game, and despite it’s success, online Bingo does have it’s fair share of critics. Why? Primarily, many believe it simply does not have the same sense of community, that the land based Bingo Halls can provide. For those who don’t really understand what that means, they might be wiser if they played in Texas!

Charity Bingo has put back $3.2million into the one hundred and forty different counties, and cities, situated across the state of Texas. And, that’s just the figures for the first half of 2009! That’s a lot of money going back into the community, and that’s a lot of fun being had by those communities at the same time. Talk about a win, win situation. According to Texan law, 5% of any prize won, playing Charity Bingo, must be donated to the General Revenue Fund. Looking at the figures, they must be loving their Charity Bingo over there!

During the second quarter of 2009, Bingo donations to the General Revenue pot went up by 5.3%. Any counties or cities that impose the levy, get half of the donation, from every player who wins in their jurisdiction. So obviously, everyone is enjoying the benefits. How’s that for putting the community spirit back into Bingo? There are few who could argue with this kind of ‘taxation’. Certainly a less bitter pill to swallow, compared to the latest tax rise, imposed on the already ailing UK operators. If the government really wants to squeeze a few more coffers from Bingo, maybe they should take a leaf out of the Texan book?

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

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PartyGaming PLC Subsidiary Will Buy WPT Enterprise

By Lisa West on Sunday, 13th September 2009

During a press release statement, American gaming company, WPT Enterprise, have publicly confirmed, they have cut a deal with PartyGaming subsidiary company, Peerless Media Ltd. PartyGaming first placed a deal on the table, only after Gamynia LTD (a private investor group) decided to opt out of the company. The buy out is fairly conclusive, inclusive all of the company’s operating assets. Only cash, some investments and specific assets, will be excluded from the deal. President and CEO of the WPTE company, Steve Lipscomb, stated that, for several years, the company had considered PartyGaming an “important partner”. Lipscomb confirmed that the WPTE company board of directors considered the deal from PartyGaming to be “financially superior”. Also expressing the company were confident, PartyGaming would be “ an excellent manager of our brands”. Referring to them as “pioneers and leaders in the poker and online gaming markets”

Looking at the fast and furious expansion of PartyGaming, in such a relatively short space of time, that statement isn’t actually that far off the mark, if at all… Only recently, PartyGaming acquired Cashcade for £94Million, a virtual giant among the operators of Online Bingo. With Cashcade, came Foxy Bingo, Cheeky and Think, some of the most popular Bingo websites online. When PartyGaming acquired Cashcade, they took a lead position online. Even so, they did make it known, the company were still on the lookout for more. They have since put new meaning into “aggressive expansion”…..

Reportedly, PartyGaming paid $12.3million for WPTE. Depending on revenues, they will also have to pay out another million a year, for the next three years. For that, PartyGaming get the whole company, intellectual rights, trade and brand names, everything! As the WPTE president said, PartyGaming should certainly “ provide a strong vehicle for the WPT brand to continue its global expansion, and return to online gaming.” certainly, with the mighty PartyGaming behind them, it’s hard to imagine what could go wrong.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on PartyGaming

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Join The Bingo Breakthrough!

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 15th September 2009

The game of Bingo has always been used as a charity fund raiser, as well as a way to provide an excellent source of entertainment for the community. In the UK, one in every nine women are diagnosed with cancer, at some point in their lives. Various charities have been set up to help those who have been affected. As well as provide the money needed, to continue research, and ensure the information’s available, to help reduce the ‘fear factor’, and promote awareness. The National Bingo Game has been on the go since 1986, and has always been popular with land based players. They have joined with UK charity, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, to launch a new campaign, called Breakthrough Bingo. Together, they plan to raise money, to help this much needed cause.

The National Bingo Game is a linked game, offering some HUGE cash jackpots. Since 1986, it has been played at both Gala and Mecca Halls across the country; as well as a majority of the independent clubs. Gala Bingo dropped the National game a year ago, so they won’t be taking part in the new Breakthrough Breast Cancer charity push. However, as you may know, they have their own campaign running, to support Sue Ryder. Another admirable UK Charity that offers support and care to those suffering from Cancer and other terminal, or long term illnesses. Gala hope to raise £1Million over the next eighteen months.

The special Breakthrough Bingo game is not actually Bingo, it’s an instant scratch card, with cash jackpot prizes available of up to £1000! Tickets are a pound, and the National Bingo Game will donate 11.5% of every ticket sold, plus any taxable profit, to the Breakthrough Breast Cancer charity. The Breakthrough Bingo campaign begins on October 5th, and will run for three months. The National Bingo Game launches this campaign every year, and has raised more than £3Million since 2003. Even so, they need as much support as they can get, and players can give that, in an instant!

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on the National Bingo Game

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St Minver Websites To Run GTECH G2 Software

By Lisa West on Saturday, 19th September 2009

GTECH G2 may be a newcomer to the online gaming industry, but that doesn’t seem to be cooling their heels in any way. The news that GTECH would be replacing the Parlay Entertainment software, on all eighty of the St Minver sites, was announced at the EiG in Copenhagen. Despite the fact that Parlay Entertainment seem to be splashing the cash, buying up anything they can get their hands on, profits were down for the first half of 2009. Whether the latest move by St Minver will have any great affect, is yet to be seen.

Although GTECH are a relatively new venture, they do own St Minver. Therefore, it could have been assumed, chances were, they were going to change over to their own software. The GTECH software will replace the Parlay Entertainment software on every site; Including the Boss Media Bingo network, as well as the International Bingo Network. The change over won’t be happening for a few months yet, targeted for next February, 2010.

That wasn’t the only announcement GTECH made at the EiG. They also broke the news that they would be releasing new Bingo software, Bingo 2.2. A Swedish operator will be the first to launch the new software, Hem Bingo. The new software is multi language, multi currency, and can support linked games. GTECH believe the Bingo 2.2 software will allow their clients to “pool liquidity and maximize the jackpots”. Although new to the scene, GTECH G2 seem hell bent on making an impact. Their software also holds many promises. It will be updated every three months, ensuring the online Bingo experience remains exciting and problem free. Something that is overlooked by too many of the online operators and software providers. This should get them up on their toes!

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

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UK Gambling Awareness Day

By Lisa West on Sunday, 20th September 2009

This year, both the land based Bingo Halls and major online operators will be promoting Gambling Awareness Day, which is on October 19th. As well as the rest of the UK gambling industry. It is a curious thing, and maybe it is just because Bingo has always been associated with your granny, but a lot of people just don’t see it as ‘gambling’. Which, of course, it is. I guess, when it conjures up images of ladies with a blue rinse, it hard to place the concept of it alongside the racing totes. Even so, the simple fact is, money is lost, and money is won. Therefore, Bingo is gambling. Although, of course, it more reflects the lighter side of betting.

The need for public awareness is a real one, campaigns like this are essential for promoting understanding, helping players establish a realistic idea of what ‘responsible gaming’ really means. As well as being aware that there is help available, counselling and support networks right across the UK. The British Bingo Association have organised the placement of posters and flyers, in all the UK’s gambling establishments. The association has also made a pledge to continue offering support to the charities who are providing that support.

Wink and Foxy are among the bigger brand operators, who will be taking part in Gambling Awareness Day. They already offer a gambling ‘self assessment’ test, which allows players to establish whether they have a problem. As well as keeping an eye out for the warning signs. Many of the online operators have also been removing previous penalties, previously penalising players who did not depositing regularly. GamCare are the main organisation, heading the campaign, and their annual conference is also planned for the same day. The plan being, to make sure Gambling Awareness Day procures some publicity, at both a national and local level.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Gambling Awareness Day

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Cashcade Gone & INM Still Struggling

By Lisa West on Monday, 21st September 2009

Independent News and Media, AKA INM, is a leading media and communications group, with international operations that span four continents. Despite their world renowned reputation, and apparent success, they have been under serious financial pressure recently. They recently sold their stake in two companies, and by doing so, have managed to keep the wolf from the door, and live to fight another day. One of those companies was Cashcade, in which, IBN had an eighteen percent stake. When deals were being put on the table, it was no secret that IBN were greatly in need of a positive conclusion.

PartyGaming paid out £94Million for Cashcade, which gave INM almost £15million, which was promptly given over to their lenders. Even so, it wasn’t enough. INM went on to sell its stake in an Indian newspaper, raising another £22Million in capitol. News was, they had bought themselves some more time. Hopefully, enough to thrash out negotiations with their lenders, with whom, they had a £200Million bond. As well as the bank, who they needed to pay another £50Million, first. In which case, there probably won't be much left on the table for bond holders. Shareholders aren’t too happy either, with INM shares plummeting by eighty percent.

The powers that be, within INM, say that the recession has been directly responsible for the company’s untamed debts. They claim, people just aren’t spending their money on advertising. This does seem somewhat incredulous. Plus, as opposed to being a positive move; it looks like a serious case of bad luck, when you sell off the one thing that actually seems to be making you money; and that was, online Bingo, which is a world wide, multi million dollar industry. Without doubt, Cashcade must have been a sweet money spinner for INM. But then I guess, paying their bond holders with Bingo tickets was never going to cut it.....

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Cashcade

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Feel Like A Foxy Flutter??

By Lisa West on Thursday, 24th September 2009

Foxy Bingo has been a big favourite among online players for a long time. When Parlay Entertainment bought out Cashcade, Foxy was among the biggest Online Bingo brand names, they acquired from the deal. Many people, especially those working within the industry, wondered how the tables of power would ultimately settle. And indeed, since that happened, the brand name of Foxy has been splashed about in all sorts of places! Namely, number one to hit the headlines, the new Foxy Zero free-play site; which, of course, has become a very big hit, in a very short space of time. Then, just recently, we have been introduced to Foxy’s new ecommerce efforts, Foxy Street.

As you can see, the Bingo boys down at Foxy have been busy sharpening their pencils, and not sparing the dabbers. Even so, while we’re all still trying to work out which bright spark chose all those lush, embroidered housecoats, up for grabs at Foxy Street, they have come up with yet another website. Thankfully, this time, the guys have ‘stuck to what they do best’, and produced a fab new gaming website. Actually, to be more precise, a fab new casino website! Foxy Flutter offers more than sixty great games. Including all the favourites, slots, instants and traditional casino card classics, like Poker, Blackjack and Baccarat. If you like the roulette wheel, then you’re definitely going to love Foxy Flutter, because they have seven different versions on the go.

Just deposit anywhere from £20 to £100 and Foxy Flutter will give you a very warm and welcoming 100% cash match slots bonus. Foxy Flutter has plenty of 1p on offer too, with jackpots of up to £2500! Just play from Friday afternoon, 1pm, and seven in the evening. Foxy Flutter has some great weekday promotions too. In fact, this site offers everything you have come to expect from Foxy Bingo. Big prizes, plenty of fun, and of course, the fabulous Mr Foxy!

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

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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

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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

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Power 50 Survey - Not Looking Good for Gala Bingo

By Lisa West on Monday, 28th September 2009

The Power 50 Survey is a highly respected report, within the gaming industry. Thought to be, and looked upon, as one of the most accurate representations; of who is, and who is not, among the top 50 gaming operators. Providers of poker, casino, sports betting and, of course, Bingo, are included in the research. Looking at the results, plenty of the so called ‘Big Boys’, with be crying over the books. For a while at least!

Despite the closures, (at the minute!) the Gala Coral Group own 24.4% of all UK Bingo Halls, making them ‘technically’, the largest Bingo Operator in the UK. Gala also own Gala Casino, as well as the Coral Betting chain of bookmakers. And of course, the Coral Betting website. Things haven’t been good for Gala lately, with closures, streamlining, and massive debts threatening to remove them from their top spot. Permanently. Despite the fact they could seriously do with some good news, looks like it’s more bad news. The Power 50 Survey revealed that Gala have dropped from a more than respectable 11th place, right down to 36th. One more drop like that one, and they will be out of the picture, altogether.

Without doubt, the results reflect the company’s falls in revenue V mounting debts. Like many UK Bingo Hall Operators, Gala Bingo have felt the consequences, of the introduction, of a public No Smoking ban. This, coupled with a worldwide recession and the introduction of Online Bingo, was fair destined to cause some damage. Reduced revenue has led to mounting debts, and it has been alleged that Gala Coral are “in” for more than two Billion. Repayments alone being more than £200million. Unfortunately, things have gone bad to worse for Gala Coral. The Power 50 Survey has gone a long way to revealing the true extent of the damage. Overall, within the British gaming industry. And it’s not at all promising.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Gala Coral Power 50 Results

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Posh Throws Down the Gauntlet To ASA

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 29th September 2009

The ASA, which is, the UK Advertising Standards Agency, have certainly been keeping busy of late. Looking at the complaints, for Bingo advertising, a few of the operators do seem to be (somewhat alarmingly), shall we say, inaccurately portraying their promotions? But it’s not just misleading information, that the ASA keep an eye out for.

Only months ago, Tombola had to completely redesign their ‘look’, due to their advertising being way too appealing, and too inviting, to young people. According to the ASA. Even so, just lately, the ASA have been getting more publicity than most of the Online Bingo Operators put together! So, who’s keeping an eye on them, eh?? Lol.

Only a couple of months ago, the ASA made Bingo Hero change it’s promotional advertising, for their apparent, free cash welcome bonus… which, as it turned out, was not real cash at all! However, the ASA have also responded to some suspiciously ‘nit picky’ complaints, which have ultimately, gotten much more attention than they were worth. And this does seem the case, with regards to a recent complaint, about Posh Bingo. The ASA recently turned the heat on, after a member of the general public said their TV adverts were misleading.

However, after an investigation into the complaint, the ASA found that the Posh Bingo TV Advert neither mislead the public, nor were they in breach of any advertising standards, or TV advertising codes. Therefore, the complaint has been dismissed, which has to be good news for Posh Bingo. Because, all that revamping and making adverts costs a lorra money! And, it’s not like they would have been the first to have to do that.

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on Posh Bingo TV Adverts

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IBN Loss Played Down By Parlay Entertainment

By Lisa West on Thursday, 1st October 2009

Parlay Entertainment boss, Scot Longley stated that the recent loss, of eighty St Minver websites, to GTECH G2, will not have any “material impact”, for Parlay Entertainment. In short, that means, he doesn’t think that he’s going to see any falls in revenue, when GTECH 2 software takes over from Parlay, in February next year. The St Minver sites are collectively known as the Independent Bingo Network - IBN. GTECH also own that network. G2 is a subsidiary of GTECH, and has already announced that they would be merging all the IBN sites onto its Boss Media Bingo software. GTECH G2 made the announcement in Copenhagen, at the EiG. GTECH also announced the arrival of their new Bingo 2.2 software, which is the software that will replace Parlay Entertainment.

Now, while Longley may be adamant that this won’t affect their finances, if it does, this could create more than a few problems for Parlay Entertainment. Profits are reportedly down, for the first half of this year. Word is, during the first 3 months of 2009, revenues were down by 70%. Despite cutting back operating costs by more than half a million. Net losses this year, being more than half a million to date. So, the company could probably do with some good news right now. Although they do not have any debts, and also have about two million dollars in the bank.

Earlier this year, Parlay also lost Paddy Power and Virgin Bingo, to another rival bingo network, Virtue Fusion. It seems that the boss at Parlay is in complete denial, as well as the company president, and CEO, Scott White. As far as White’s concerned, the St Minver network only represents a marginal percent of their portfolio, stating they were presently, “one of Parlay’s smallest customers”. While also stating, like the boss, the impact of this would have “no material impact” on the company. White was not forthcoming with exactly what kind of percentages were are talking. For some reason…

This was an article by Lisa for Bingo Faces on the Independent Bingo Network

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NEW! Deal or No deal Bingo Game

By Lisa West on Friday, 2nd October 2009

Virtue Fusion are in the headlines again, after making their latest press release statement. So, what’s going on now? What is the UK’s leading Bingo software provider up to now? After the last few months, there’s not a lot we would be surprised by… but, Ice Bingo Booths in Rekyvic? Na! just kidding.. Virtues Fusion have announced, they are about to ‘get connected’ with Endemol UK; a UK company who have become frontrunners, in entertainment programming. On that note, you may well be wondering, what exactly has Endemol got, that Virtue Fusion want. Because you know very well, they must have something important!

Well, what it’s all about, is that amazing TV show, “Deal or No Deal”, which has taken the world by storm. By running in cahoots with Endemol, Virtue Fusion now have a free hand, to develop some new and exciting Bingo games, based on this great show. Jurian van der Meer, Head of Products and Brand Exploitation for Endemol, stated that the company were “really excited”, about the prospect.

The new Virtue Fusion game will combine facets of traditional Bingo, along with elements of the show. Van Deer also added, "Deal or No Deal is one of Endemol's biggest TV hits worldwide”. He also revealed that the company believed Virtue Fusion would “create a new entertainment experience”, and would be distributing the game “to some of the biggest operators in the bingo industry”. Look like big plans lay ahead, for the Endemol-Virtue Fusion connection.

The new game is set to hit the Virtue Fusion network within weeks. Some of the biggest online operators, in the UK, have already confirmed, they will be hosting the new “Deal or No Deal” Bingo Game. This includes Mecca, Sky and Paddy Power. Virtue are also waiting for more operators to confirm, in the very near future. And, with an innovative software developer like Virtue Fusion behind it, I’m sure it won’t be long before the operators are knocking down the doors for it!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo Faces on the new Deal or No Deal Bingo Game

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Dragonfish Heads For South Africa

By Lisa West on Saturday, 3rd October 2009

Dragonfish are a leading gaming software provider, and a subsidiary company of 888 Holdings. 888 ladies, are a popular Bingo brand in the UK. However, 888 Holdings are a world respected, leading online gaming entertainment company. Despite their obvious success to date, not a company to let the grass grow under them, 888 are off to South Africa. Just the other day, dragonfish announced, they have signed a deal with one of South Africa’s top casino groups; the Tsongo Sun Gaming Group (TSG). Managing Directors for Dragonfish, Gabi Compos, stated that the company were regarding the deal with TSG as “the first of many, targeted at regulated markets”.

888 Holdings develops and manages all the company’s fundamental aspects of its operations in-house. This not only includes software development, but marketing, payment processing, customer and risk management as well. Ms compos is adamant that the software, and infrastructure, Dragonfish supply provides “ an excellent platform, for partnerships with land based casinos”.

The Tsongo Sun Gaming Group operate seven casinos within South Africa, which collectively, are visited by over 20million people a year. TSG will be using their experience and expertise to promote the new online gaming experience, provided by the Dragonfish software. They will also be launching their own online gaming site, and both 888 Holdings and TSG will be merging their members database.

There’s little doubt, Dragonfish could be extremely beneficial to many companies like TSG, who are able to operate with a local licence. And, word on the grapevine is, they intend to launch Bingo, Poker and Casino websites in the near future. However, for now, they will have to keep their sights on sports betting. That is, until they have assessed the blurry lines, which currently define gambling laws, within south Africa. But you can bet your bottom dollar, they will be doing exactly that….. as soon as they’ve sussed it!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo Faces on Dragonfish

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Irish Bingo Laws Up For Review

By Lisa West on Sunday, 4th October 2009

For the first time ever, Northern Ireland may allow the great game of Bingo, to be played on a Sunday. It has been announced, the government have put the current laws up for a review. Northern Ireland’s Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, stated that she personally believes that the country’s laws were “not robust enough to deal with modern gambling”. According to Ritchie, the current laws are out of date, being “ inflexible and hard to understand”.

T’is true, the world of gambling has moved on, with the introduction of new technologies, and of course, the internet. Almost certainly, when these laws were introduced, which was way back in 1985, it would have been impossible to envision exactly how many new ways to gamble, would be invented. In those days, we were still listening to the odds over the radio and chalking them up on a whiteboard… and settling bets with a red ballpoint pen and a calculator… well, most of us anyway! The internet? Well, that was ‘up there’ with video phones… nanoo, nanoo! Only got whiff of one of those when the ‘Starship Enterprise’ graced the screen, for 30minutes of futuristic excitement.

Okay, so you get the picture… and this is why Margaret Richie has somewhat sensibly, initiated a review. So, what are the key issues? Primarily, the fees and charges associated with a gambling licence look set to change… and, it’s doubtful that any of those will go down! The systems in place to enforce the laws, will also need to be reviewed. Problem gambling, or should we say, sensible gambling is a major issue, as is the ‘protection’ of young people. Even though, the ASA have already proved they are more than ’on the ball’ with that one. There are many aspects that will need to be reassessed. Let’s just hope, for the sake of the Northern Irish operators, things don’t just end making things more expensive, as opposed to making things any easier.

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on gambling

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Bringing Home The Beacon

By Lisa West on Monday, 5th October 2009

You may, or may not have heard of Beacon Bingo Entertainment. It depends on where you live! Beacon are a relatively small, independent Bingo operator, who currently run local Bingo halls in London’s Cricklewood, Loughborough and Northampton. Mecca and Gala may have had their fair share of problems, over the last few months, and they are the two largest operators in the UK. So, with that in mind, imagine what the little guy has been going through! Indeed, there have been many, who have simply not been able to keep their heads above water, in the tide of change.

That’s why it’s such good news to hear that some of the independent operators are actually doing very well. Thank you! And one of those is Beacon Bingo Entertainment, who have just taken over three separate Bingo Halls (as of October 1st 2009). Two of the halls, in Streatham, South London, and Brighton, were operated by Riva Bingo previously. The other is the Hippodrome Bingo Hall in Lowestoft. That means, Beacon Bingo have just doubled their numbers overnight!

Representatives for Beacon Bingo stated that all three of the Bingo Halls will have “redesigned signage” to incorporate the “classic Beacon torch”…oohh err!!! The Loughborough Beacon Bingo Hall is up for some “major refurbishment” too, as well as the newly acquired Brighton hall. Their new “contemporary interiors” are set to include outside/inside, external (but enclosed) smoking terraces. Sound like a winning plan, if they get to pull it off.

Beacon Entertainment is among the largest UK gaming groups, with more than thirty gaming venues, and a quarter of a million members. To get their new Bingo Halls off to a blazing start, Beacon bingo have sent new cards to members, along with details of the £125K of cash and prizes up for grabs; during their special, 18 day promotion. But hey, with that amount of dollar up for grabs, they might have to buy next door!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo Faces on Beacon Bingo Halls

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Sky Bingo Re-Launch

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 6th October 2009

Sky Bingo have finally made their big re-launch, and there’s more than a buzz of excitement in the air. The big Sky Bingo re-launch has been eagerly anticipated. There’s even been a bit of a ‘cloak and dagger’ scenario going on, with regards to what new features would be revealed. Sky Bingo making the most of the attention! And who could blame them? It costs a pretty penny to revamp a website on this scale. They are bound to want to at least use the intrigue, to cook up some interest!

The new design is very different to many of the online Bingo websites around. Personally, I found it a little ‘wishy washy’ looking. Far from kicking me into an excited buzz of anticipation. In fact, I would go as far as to say, it is one of the most ‘clinical’ looking Bingo websites around. To get the free £15 bonus money, new players must wager £5 first. That’s a 300% bonus, which is one of the most generous on the net. And, players can withdraw any winnings gained, from wagering the free bonus money. However, the maximum bonus available, is £15. Defo NOT the best around…

Sky Bingo have four hours of FREE Bingo available. Every day, there are four separate, hourly sessions of free games. The first free Bingo hour starts at 10am. There’s afternoon sessions too, the first one starting 1pm. The next session starts at 5pm, and then they have a late session at night, beginning at 10pm. Looks like this promotion is set to stay too, with all the free games having their own dedicated venue.

Sky Bingo also offer 3hours of Penny Bingo every day, as well as a weekly £20,000 jackpot game, where tickets are just 2p. Bargain! With Linx games available, and some seriously big weekly, regular jackpots, Sky Bingo have obviously been busy. For just 10p a ticket, players can also go for the £1000 jackpot game, held every evening at 10pm. Tickets can be pre-purchased too, so you always have the chance to be a winner at Sky Bingo. Even when you’re not logged in!

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

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Inspired Gaming At Gala Bingo

By Lisa West on Saturday, 10th October 2009

Looks like the number 3600 as turned out lucky, for Inspired Gaming. Currently, the company has exactly that amount handheld terminals, in Gala Bingo Halls up and down the country. And, it looks like that has turned out to be a truely ’inspired’ move on their behalf. Because, now, Gala Bingo want another 3600! The Inspired Gaming Group PLC are a UK based company who supply gaming software to online Bingo and Casino operators in ten countries. By no means a ‘cottage industry’. However, renegotiating a deal like this, can only add to their portfolio… and their profit margins, of course.

The extra ‘Bingo Wizard’ terminals were distributed in September, in most of Gala Bingo’s one hundred and forty eight Bingo Halls, situated throughout the UK. Originally, the Inspired Gaming Group developed and designed the ‘Bingo Wizard’ software, specifically for Gala Bingo. It operates solely alongside Gala’s current gaming platform. It’s design provides players with a lot more opportunities to socialise, which is, without doubt, a good thing to encourage.

Obviously, Gala Bingo feel that it has provided many advantages for players. Else, they wouldn’t be doubling up their order! Machines Director for Gala Coral, John Pettit, stated that the company has seen a ‘significant change’, with regards to how their members like to play Bingo. Especially over the last few years. Pettit believes that members “now expect the most personal, flexible experience available”.

Inspired Gaming were pioneers of Open Server Based Gaming (SBG). John Pettit stated that the SBG, provided by the company, enabled Gala Bingo to “procure top content”. As well as allowing them to “ react quickly to consumer and legislative changes”. From October, ten of Gala Coral’s UK betting offices will trial Inspired Gaming’s ‘Storm Cabinet’ terminals. Looks like this could be the beginning of a wonderful relationship!

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

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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

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Everyone’s Making A Beeline for Beeston

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 13th October 2009

We've all heard about the new multimillion pound, revamped, Mecca Bingo club in Beeston. In Bingo circles up and down the country, it’s become a virtual legend. And, in a very short space of time. In fact, there may even be some Bingo fanatics thinking about moving to Nottingham! Well, if they were ‘tinkering’ with the idea before, Beeston Mecca’s latest ‘shenanigans’ might be enough to edge the odds. The Beeston Bingo Hall now has ‘smart & arty’, slick and cool waiters, serving up copious cups of frothy cappuccinos. And, as if that wasn’t enough to get their members buzzing, they’re even serving up wine with the fish and chips. Blimey!

The Beeston Mecca has been doing very well since it opened; revamped and ready for action. Of course, the latest figures for the Rank Group, who own Mecca Bingo, have showed revenues are on the up. Which is quite a remarkable achievement, with the troubles of today’s financial climate. That just goes to show, it can be done… with a lot of ingenuity and some good solid innovation. The Beeston Mecca is divided into two separate member areas. Of course, there’s a gaming room, where as we expect, the ambience is quiet. The other area is where players can talk freely, without disturbing their fellow members, in the games room. A great place to 'spread the love' when you had a win too ; )

According to Ian Burke, CE for the Rank Group, the two areas are the “Key part of the design”. Without doubt, players can get more than a little ‘testy’, shall we say, if there’s too much chatter going on, while the numbers are called. So, it seems perfectly logical, to give players a place to go and ‘have a break’. As Burke points out, at this Mecca Hall members can “play bingo in the traditional way”, as well as have a social area to enjoy with their friends, and “ not be told to be quiet”. Sorted!
This was an article by LJ for Bingo Faces on Beeston Mecca Bingo

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Mecca Making Good

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 14th October 2009

With regards to the Bingo industry, there’s been way too much ‘doom and gloom’ in the press, over the last year. Of course, it’s been a tough year or two for everyone, and it doesn’t look like it’s over yet. The Bingo industry as a whole, has had more than its fair share of ups and downs. None more so, it seems, than Gala Bingo. However, it looks like they have managed to cut themselves a deal, with their investors; and hopefully, that will be enough to get them back on track. Regardless, they continue to be the biggest land based operator in the UK. So, things aren’t (maybe) as bleak, as they’re doomsday looking!

Even so! Mecca Bingo, currently the UK’s second largest land based Bingo operator, is hot on their heals. And, it looks like whatever they're doing, to get ‘bums on seats’, is definitely working. The Rank Group’s (Mecca Bingo’s parent company) financial reports, for the last three months, ending October 4th, reveal revenues are on the up. Which does beg the question; exactly what are they doing, that Gala aren’t? Apart from, not sending their employees up Everest! Or, is it even a question of what they are, or aren’t doing? Maybe they just invested that little bit too much, too soon… and maybe not! and 'funnily enough', it will all work out...

There have been plenty of external factors affecting the Bingo industry of late. And, they have affected every operator, big and small. The arrival of online Bingo; the recession; a smoking ban; raised taxes; free Bingo! It’s been a ‘proper’ onslaught of negativity… However, looking around, it does look like things might be on the up and up, for everyone. What with Gala Coral getting some respite; Ladbrokes being bailed, with a £270million injection from investors; and the Rank Group pulling in the £££££’s…

And do you know what? Without doubt, it’s about time…

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

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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

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Gala Coral - Moving On

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 20th October 2009

Gala Coral, the parent company of Gala Bingo, have been in the headlines for months now. If it isn’t the press digging out leaked memos, or speaking to the bank managers, then it’s Gala Coral. Often, with some kind of ‘counteractive announcement’. Sometimes, it has been the press who have reported, let’s say, a more direct version of the facts. And, it has been Gala, who have been, not so much lying, as avoiding the truth.

Even so, who can blame them? Who, in their situation, would want their financial details broadcast. After all, the facts can have a way of ‘expanding’, in the media. And when the pressures on, that level of attention can simply add more unnecessary ‘elements’, into the mix. Without doubt, Neil Goulden, the Gala Coral Chairman, has probably been more than a ‘tad’ frustrated!

Recently, Gala Coral finally managed to get their debts realised. As their head man always said they would. Now, that done, Gala have created themselves some space, and can now move on. And, it looks like they are not about to let the grass grow! The group have just announced that they have cut a new advertising deal, with just one company, ‘The Engine Group’. Reportedly, worth around eight million. Looks like they are out to reinvest and recuperate, as well as streamline operations. Maybe?

Gala Coral still hold an impressive portfolio. Including casinos, greyhound stadiums, betting offices, and of course, Bingo Halls. Since Gala have managed to reach an agreement with investors, they will now be able to get hold of their previously frozen assets. Which is, namely, £250million. Therefore, £8million is a mere chip off the old block! Hopefully, this will be start of ‘good things’ for the Gala Coral group. Finally… But hey, as they say, there’s no such this as bad publicity. So, on that note, maybe it will all work out in the end…

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

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William Hill & Playtech - A Winning Combination.

By Lisa West on Saturday, 24th October 2009

Two of the UK’s largest gaming operators have released trading figures this week. Nothing too unusual or curious about that, you might say… and, I have to agree! However, what is curious? Is the fact that neither of them included any detailed information, with regards to their Bingo operations. So, who are we talking about? Namely, Playtech and William Hill. It was a year ago, in October, when the two companies first joined their online operations at the hip. Therefore, the figures are somewhat significant. It has been a long year, no doubt, for Henry Birch. The man who is at the head of the division. He’s had some task, working out how to integrate, and make the most of what the two have to offer.

On the Playtech side, the company have been investing copious amounts of time and money, developing their own range of Bingo games. In the report Playtech stated, that among the years ‘operational highlights’, was the “launch of a new version of Playtech's Bingo product”. However, this was about the long and short of it! William Hill’s online gaming assets use Virtue Fusion software. Although, one might well expect that to change in the future. Indeed, although William Hill said that their “ casino, poker, bingo and skill games” were “performing well”, and “in line with management expectations”. According to the report, their gaming activities collectively delivered a “net revenue growth of 98% by the third quarter.”

There were few more details than this, included in the report. Other than an air of optimism. The companies state, they believe the current figures will “be further boosted by increased liquidity contributed by existing and new licensees”. And yes, things do look positive for both. Unlike Ladbrokes, whose shares have plummeted recently, due to problems with huge debts. Shares for William Hill and Playtech have stabilised. So, looks like they’ve found themselves a winning combination.

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

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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

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UK Online Bingo - Australian Gambling Allegations Shocker

By Lisa West on Thursday, 29th October 2009

Australiangambling.com.au have unearthed some damning, and un-nerving indications that UK Bingo players are being betrayed. As well as members from some of the worlds top online gambling companies. The allegation is more than shocking, and involves names such as, Foxy, William Hill and 888. According to industry sources, players details are being sold online for a price. And a pretty price it is too…. Thousands of pounds in some cases. However, even though players might be shocked, and even a little upset about discovering that, it has not yet been clarified, as to whether any laws are actually being broken.

If this is the case, it could turn out that some of the UK’s leading brand Bingo Operators, may be in a shocking breach of player privacy. Although, the consequences of that could be great, whether legal or not. The details being sold include, names, addresses, DOB, email address and even financial information. As in, how much that player has deposited, lost and won. And, it is available to anybody, anywhere, who has enough money to buy it.

Of course, gambling operators are far from the only industry to buy and sell personal data. Far, far from it. And, it has yet to be clarified, if this is indeed the case. Although the internet has provided us with a whole new world, it is not always that easy to keep some privacy in it! Hence, people spend their hard earned cash on privacy and data protection software. Australian Gambling have, to date, received no replies from any of the operators involved, and they are numerous.

The commission is specifically aimed at protecting Australians. However, in this instance, their findings will to be relative to many people, all around the world. What effect this SHOCKING REPORT has, upon the world of online gambling, is yet to be seen. But, indeed, it doesn’t look like it will be a positive one, and that wont be good news for the industry.

Email between Australian gambling, and online seller - AKA Ryan:

Hi Nick, thanks for the chat on messenger earlier.
Ok, as I mentioned we have gambling data targeted to Casino, Poker, Sportsbetting and Bingo.
In the latest batch of casino data we have roughly 40k full records available which include Full name, address, email, telephone number, net loss and total deposits of each player.
All the data is European and comes from various online casinos like Casino Tropez, Eurogrand, Casinojoy, 888, Intercasino, Spin Palace, 32 red, Will Hill, Europa, Vegas Red, Platinumplay and Roxy Palace.
If you wanted to buy all the 40k casino data I would charge you $100 per 1,000 records so the total cost would be $4,000. If you just wanted to buy part of the database the cost per 1,000 would differ depending on how many you wanted to take.
Regarding poker data we have 37k full records available which again include Full name, address, email, telephone number, net loss and total deposits of each player.
All the data is European and comes from various online poker sites like Titan Poker, Poker Ocean, Pacific Poker and Full Tilt Poker.
If you wanted the whole 37k we would be looking at around $80 per 1,000 records so the total cost would be roughly $2,950. If you wanted to buy part of the database the cost per 1,000 would depend on total spend.
With regards to sports betting data, in the latest batch we have roughly 25k available which are mainly UK and are just email addresses.
The betting data as come from sites Ladbrokes, Betfair, Totesport, Will Hill and Coral.
If you wanted the whole 25k I can do you them at $50 per 1,000 as they are just email addresses so the total cost would be $1,250 or again if you just wanted part of the data the cost per 1,000 would all depend on how many you wanted.
Finally, as I mentioned we have around 500 records for bingo which are just Uk email addresses and they come from Foxy, Cheeky and Tombola Bingo.
I would be willing to chuck these in for free on any substantial order.
If you wanted to take all of the above Nick the total cost would be $8,200 but I would be willing to knock that down to $7,000 for you so you would save $1,200.
Let me know what you want to do.
Cheers Nick.
Many Regards

Ryan

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on UK Online Bingo

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No Joy For Rank Chief Exec

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 4th November 2009

Ian Burke, Chief Exec of Rank Group; owners of Mecca Bingo, has made three appeals to date, with regards to the 22% tax rate. Land based Bingo operators in the UK have recently befallen a 7% rise in taxes, due to government changes in legislation. Before and since the rise, there have been protests. Primarily, operators airing their concerns for the fate of those, unable to manage such a high rate of tax. Requesting that the rate be 15% for all operators, not just those online. Online Bingo is booming, and yet, somewhat curiously, the government did not rise the tax rate for these operators. Leaving it at 15%.

The Rank Chief Exec has made a personal appeal to the Secretary of the Exchequer Treasury, Sarah McCarty Fry. In a letter, Burke raised several issues, stating, “In the last few years our business has experienced sudden, unheralded and substantial tax increases, both in relation to casino and bingo”. Well, not a lot to argue about there! According to Burke, the new tax rate has “ necessitated profit warnings”, for two of Ranks last three budget announcements. Burke went on to make three specific requests, regarding this ongoing issue.

The Rank Chief Exec requested that land based bingo tax brought inline with all other forms of UK gambling or betting. Currently, the land based operators being the singled out, to pay the extra 7%. Burke also requested that the tax rate for amusement machine stay put. And, his final request? That casino revenues from player to player card games should be taken out of the equation, for the purposes of taxation. Burke also states that the Rank Group are “ unaware of any other sector in Britain”, which has been required to endure the same.

Mecca Bingo aren’t the only Bingo operator feeling the pressure of a heavy tax burden. Many land based halls have been forced to close their doors, since the new rate was introduced. Even so, the government doesn’t look set to meet the requests. Not now, not never….

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This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on Mecca Bingo

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NeoGames Delivering The Fairy Tale

By Lisa West on Thursday, 5th November 2009

NeoGames have launched a brand new scratch card into the magical world of online Bingo. The Fairy Tale has a fascinating fantasy theme, and looks destined to find fame and spread some fortune, all around the world. NeoGames are world leaders, when it comes to the art of scratch cards. They have been wooing and wowing players worldwide, with an ever expanding collection of state of the art, scratch creations. There is little doubt, the arrival of the new Fairy Tale game, is certainly going to grab some attention.

Bingo players in the UK are more than a bit partial to online scratch card games. And, they have been available, along with a variety of other exciting Instant games, to UK players for a long time. Today, there are few operators who do not integrate side games, within their Bingo games. Such is the interest, and their appeal, NeoGames have been able to spawn a whole new generation of online scratch cards. Today, they are major forerunners, within the online gaming industry. There is little doubt, the Fairy Tale will follow in the footsteps of some of the most successful fantasy scratch card games around. This game is now available across all the NeoGames network. As well as being available in 12 European languages.

It is a beautifully designed fantasy game. Each card represents a medieval castle. Each castle having five mystery towers. Inside each tower are a menagerie of curious looking characters. From witches to princes, genies to dragons… all the usual suspects are here! Of course, you don’t know who’s hidden away until you ‘do the scratch’. Reveal three matching characters, and you will be counting the cash! The more you wager, the bigger the cash pots! For example, a wager of 50p could win you a £5000 pot. The maximum stake is £10. Get brave and you could be bagging a £100K Jackpot. Definitely, the stuff that legends are made of..

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This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on NeoGames Scratch Cards

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Mecca & Gala Out Of The Running - Bingo Operator Of The Year 2010

By Lisa West on Monday, 9th November 2009

Mecca Bingo and Gala Bingo are not on the shortlist, for this years Bingo Operator Of The Year award. A surprise, as the size of the business is one of the criteria, taken into account. And, why Crown Bingo did not enter this years competition. While size may not be everything, it does seem to come into the equation, for just about everything! The UK Bingo Operator Of The Year Award is sponsored by eGaming Review, and is considered a prestigious award, within the industry. Therefore, the release of the short list has been highly anticipated. The six UK operators, who did make it to the shortlist, are probably not going to be so surprising to you, as those who didn’t.

Cashcade’s Foxy Bingo has been shortlisted….. Of course, nobody will be too surprised at that. Foxy Bingo is a showcase for Cashcade, and a mighty fine showcase he is too! Foxy games run on the Globalware platform. Although only one of Cashcade’s sites made it to the short list, Globalware are providing the Bingo software for two of the short listed operators; Foxy Bingo, and Wink Bingo. Spacebar Media, an Online Marketing Firm, based in London; own Wink Bingo. Indeed, Wink Bingo do not only owe their great success to some good promotions, they also owe a lot to some extremely clever and innovative marketing. Of course, the cap has changed a little over the years. Today, Wink Bingo is a hugely popular online Bingo destination, with a major following of loyal and happy Winkers, logging in on a regular basis.

William Hill Bingo are one of two operators to be short listed, using the Virtue Fusion platform. Ladbrokes Bingo being the other, who, this year, are in the running for many gaming industry awards. Tombola Bingo and Jackpot Joy make up the six finalists: Both running their games on ‘in-house’ software. The winner of this coveted award will be announced on November 30th, at eGaming’s ‘Review Awards Gala Dinner’.

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This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on the Bingo Operator Of The Year Award

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Ladbrokes Bingo - On The Move

By Lisa West on Thursday, 12th November 2009

When the government announced a raise in taxes for land based Bingo clubs the whole industry was up in arms. Even so, regardless of how many, who or where they protested, the government stayed staunch to the new tax rate: Completely unwilling to reconsider. Of course, Bingo has suffered the rebuff of recession, as have many UK businesses. And, like the public house and restaurant owners, the Bingo industry has felt the brunt of a smoking ban.

Ashas been well documented, a lot of Bingo operators have fallen to the wayside. Whilst the larger operators have had to fight their own financial battles. Some, streamlining and ‘selling off’ assets in order to keep their heads above water. So, at a time when operators were already struggling, the government decided to raise taxes. Sounds like a plan.... As predicted, this dealt a final blow to smaller companies, and led to larger brands taking their business elsewhere.

Ladbrokes are one of the UK’s leading Bingo operators, as well as top bookmakers. Even so, when their half yearly financial reports can back, Ladbrokes realised.... They simply cannot compete successfully, within the gaming industry, with such heavy tax burdens. Not when they are competing against gaming companies, who have the benefit of a low tax rates, simply because their businesses are registered offshore.

So, the solution? To match those businesses - like Paddy Power, who are based in Gibraltar - and get their business moved offshore. Christopher Bell, Ladbrokes chief exec, originally confirming this in August. Back then, Bell stated that the UK tax rate was “unsustainable” and that the company would be leaving in the new year. However, last week, Ladbrokes announced they would be relocating before then. Seems, like many, they can’t wait to get away from Mr Brown. WTG Gordon….

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces On Ladbrokes Bingo

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UK Bingo - American Style?

By Lisa West on Sunday, 22nd November 2009

America. The land of lawsuits. Only recently a woman won her case against an American superstore, for tens of thousands of dollars Why? Because she tripped over a child who was running in their aisles. Bizzare thing? The child was hers! And, there are few who do not remember the infamous multi million pound award; made to a Mc Donalds customer, by an American court, because they were burned by the coffee they bought.

Well, it looks like the economic crisis is really taking its toll, or we are becoming more and more like America every day… what do I mean? I mean, the latest news that a Scottish Bingo is being sued for £10,000 by one of their customers. Well, not so utterly American! People do sue each other… but the crux of this law suit? It’s all over a chicken curry!

Sandy Williams, 36, wants £10,000 compensation because she burned herself at the curry counter. KE Entertainment own and operate Kings Premier Bingo Hall in Perth, the bingo hall being sued by Ms Williams. According to her, she has been “scarred for life” at their hot food counter.

Few details have been released, as to exactly how Sandy Williams managed to get burned. But according to Ms Williams, she was pointing at the Chicken Curry, in the HOT tray at the HOT food counter, and “before I realised, I had burnt my arm”. Since the run in with the curry tray, Ms Williams has found everyday life difficult, stating, “I still have a problem carrying shopping and things with my right hand." Looks like a long and complicated case lies ahead….

According to Sandy Williams, the whole incident turned her bingo night into a “nightmare”. Maybe she should try the Ceasar Salad next time? Or order in and logon at home. Wrap herself in some cotton wool… and so forth… Can you get a lifetime ban from Bingo halls for being a danger unto yourself? If it isn’t.. the operators might want to start putting it in their members terms and conditions….

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on UK Bingo Halls

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New MD For Gala Bingo

By Lisa West on Thursday, 26th November 2009

Gala Coral are the parent company of Gala Bingo and it has been a rocky year for them. To say the least. There were rumours, that should the bingo balls hit the fan for Gala Bingo; someone, somewhere upon the higher echelons, would find themselves apart of the most recent cut backs. Somewhat inevitably, Simon Longbottom, managing director of Gala’s bingo and casino sector has stepped down from his post. However, despite what this may indicate, Gala Coral insist that his departure has nothing to do with their current financial ‘situation’…..

For the time being, Mark Sargeant, who only recently became Gala’s Group Gaming Director this July, will be stepping up temporarily. Mark Sergeant spent a year in the position of Commercial Director of Gala Gaming Division; prior to becoming Group Gaming Director in July. Although nothing has been officially announced, word on the grape vine is that Sergeant looks set to take up his new Managing Director’s position on a permanent basis.

Simon Longbottom will be moving on to entirely new pastures, taking up a position outside of the bingo gaming industry. According to a report released in the Times newspaper, Longbottom implied that he would be moving into the pub trade. Gala Coral look set to complete a deal, which should save them from total ruin, by the end of the year. Reports indicate that Gala have debts of more than £2.5billion. Restructuring and refinancing enabling the company to recover and manage those debts. Finalising any deal is going to be complicated. The Gala Group has more than two hundred individual investors.

Blackstone, an American private equity group have put £300 million on the table. It is reported that in return for this, they are looking for an equity stake of somewhere between 40% and 60%. More offer are expected, the general consensus being, if they are good enough for Blackstone, they are good enough for a lot of people. The saga continues….

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces about Gala Bingo

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FatSpannar Launching "New Dab For Life" Charity Bingo

By Lisa West on Wednesday, 2nd December 2009

Of late, we have seen a major surge from bingo operators, in the drive to raise much needed funds for UK charities. After all, Bingo has always been a community game, originally a popular form of entertainment, devised and directed at raising money for local communities. A bit of harmless fun you might say! Costa Bingo recently teamed up with the BBC, to raise money for their ‘Children in Need’ charity. The efforts of employees at Gala Bingo now being legendary, when they made it to base camp on Everest. As well as having themselves a game of bingo!

One in nine women in the UK will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Therefore, the charity work carried out is more than needed. FatSpanner are known as ‘specialists’ in online electronic games. Recently, they unveiled plans for a new bingo game, which will be known as “Dab for Life”. The prototype was first seen at London’s recent “Preview Show” and FatSpanner were glad to see, there was plenty of interest in the new game.

Five percent of all the net profit made from the game will go to the UK Breast Cancer Campaign, which is a very respectable donation indeed. The new game is a bit of a spin off from the company‘s tried and trusted, SWAP game for iphones, “True Skill” Bingo. FatSpanner’s New Business Director, Alfio Monterosso stated that everyone had been anxious to see whether “the concept would be embraced by potential customer” at the show.

Despite the fact that “True Skill” has been more than successful in the marketplace, the company are somewhat apprehensive. Why? Because although “Dab For Life” is based on this successful game, it is NOT the same. And FatSpanner have pledged £10K to the UK’s Breast Cancer Campaign, whatever the outcome. So if it doesn’t get a good reception….FatSpanner will be more than out of pocket. So go help them out! The company have pledged 5% of all profits to the UK Breast Cancer Campaign. And on the off, things are looking good, with the first test machines making a great impact. So keep your eyes peeled!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on charity bingo

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Bingo Entertainment Revive Playnet Network

By Lisa West on Saturday, 5th December 2009

Only recently we witnessed the head of Gala Bingo lay down his golden bingo dabber and move onto pastures new… Obviously, he has chosen to move on, his decision having nothing to do with Galas much publicised near miss with insolvency… While the global recession has obviously had a negative affect upon the bingo industry, it has to be said… this is NO time for mismanagement. And any company who is unfortunate enough to have employed a red herring, they will now be paying the price. And it will be a heavy one… as Interactive Playnet recently discovered, to their peril…

Only weeks ago the Interactive Playnet online bingo network shut up shop. Temporarily freezing the accounts of its registered players of the following online bingo operators:

Bulldog Bingo
Churchill Bingo
Skippy Bingo
Fun Bingo
Rainbow Bingo
Exotic Bingo
Blind Date Bingo
Comedy Bing
Emerald Bingo
You Got Bingo
Happy Days Bingo
Starlight Bingo
Sunset Strip Bingo
Bingo Boat

Of course, players and affiliates alike were ‘upset’. There was a rumour that the Gamesy Group who own Jackpot Joy - one of the UK's leading online Bingo operators - might be up for taking over the reigns. Well, turns out that it was certainly true, another operator had shown interest in reviving the Playnet network. However, it isn’t Gamesy…. It is Bingo Entertainment who have come to the rescue. The Bingo Entertainment Network has rapidly expanded its online bingo network, since launching in 2003. To be around so long, hails the fact they provide a quality product, one that has indeed become highly popular among players. The software being an internationally recognised brand.

As company CEO, Richard Chambers stated, “It is sad when you see something like this happen. Being one of the first online bingo operators, I have seen many, and I do mean many, bingo operations come and go”. However, as Chambers comments, the reason for failure are not always down to the current world economy… Chambers stating that failure being down to the fact “some have been fraudulent and others as is the case with Interactive Playnet, a simple issue of mismanagement.” The company will be merging all Playnet accounts into its own gaming database, thereby securing all player funds. So NOBODY needs to panic…

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on Playnet

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Free Bingo Set To Expand….

By Lisa West on Sunday, 6th December 2009

Yes, apparently it is possible to expand upon the amount of free bingo already offered across the UK bingo networks. Just when we all thought that free bingo had reached it’s saturation point, seems that was wrong! Fa la la la lah!! Just feeling the joy of the festive season upon me there! The latest news from Dragonfish is that they will be spreading the joys of free bingo right across their networks.

The 888 Group own Dragonfish, the business to business (B2B) section of the 888 Group. And Dragonfish own Globalcom, a world class bingo software company. Therfore, both Dragonfish and Globalcom being under the 888 Group’s umbrella. Globalcom software is extremely popular, used by some of the UK’s leading operators. Indeed, including the UK’s official No1 Bingo Operator, Foxy Bingo. So players should be able to look forward to some excellent free game play.

The news that Dragonfish will be offering free bingo right across their networks should sent a ripple (or two) through the industry. Both of the UK’s biggest freeplay sites, Cheeky Bingo and Costa Bingo both currently operating on the Globalcom software. In many ways, 888 have been the company behind the ‘uprising’ of free bingo. An entity that was originally only destined for the ‘short term’, now the object of desire for around a third of all online players. The surge of free bingo, over the 12months, being the stuff that bingo legends are made of!

Gabi Campos, speaking on behalf of Dragonfish stated that: “By signing up for free cards, they enjoy the chat rooms, get excited about the software, and very quickly become a community in a similar way to any other social network. They then start escalating their commitment little by little, and then want to play for the bigger prizes.” So there is a strategy to all this! Although many operators do not believe this to be the case.. Well, I guess we will all have to wait and see.. Exactly what will be the impact of this latest move from Dragonfish? Hey… every end marks a beginning ; )

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on free bingo

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Playtech Set To Take Over Gaming Technology Solutions

By Lisa West on Friday, 11th December 2009

Playtech Ltd has been developing online gaming software since they were founded, which was back in 1999. The company provides casino, bingo and poker software for a number of operators, as well as providing mobile gaming and “fixed odd” online arcade games. On top of that Playtech also have their own bingo network - Bingo land - which include online bingo names such as Miss Bingo, Bingo Day, Bingo Fantasy and Ruby Bingo. Playtech have built a sound reputation within the bingo industry. All their gaming software being tested and certified by a major, accredited, testing facility.

Among the long list of notable operators currently using Playtech software is Bwin, Betfred, ToteSport, Titan Poker and SEGACasino. Now, while Playtech may already have an impressive portfolio, news is that they are all set to take over Gaming Technology Solutions - also known as GTS. According to Mor Weizer, Playtech Chief Executive, this is a “strategic move” by the company. GTS offers a wide variety of “skill” games. Some of which are allowed to be played even under regulated markets. Weizer stated that by integrating GTS the company will be able to “work with a true open platform and integrate new games seamlessly.”

Effectively, Playtech have many to enhance their capabilities overnight. Gaming Technology Solutions have thirty operators in their current portfolio and gaming licences with fifteen different European companies. Some of those operators not currently gracing the books of Playtech LTD. Playtech will be handing over €10.8 million initially for GTS. Plus, they have also agree upon an additional “performance based” consideration of €21.6 million. According to Weizer, their take over of GTS will “allow them to tap into the rapidly growing sports book segment and add another offering into the Playtech portfolio, which already offers online bingo games and casino games including online slots.” Sounds like Playtech are definitely “up for it”…. so things should be getting exciting in the very near future… ; )

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces about online bingo

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Bingo Addiction - Reaching New Heights?

By Lisa West on Friday, 18th December 2009

Unfortunately in life there always seems to be a downside to the upside : ( But even more unfortunately, all too often the ‘downside’ is actually avoidable. But at the end of the day, we are only human… quite simply, we don’t always get everything right. In the world of Bingo the upside is that lots of people get to have lots of fun. And online, it doesn’t even have to cost a fortune. Not with all the free bingo around these days. The downside? People can (and are) becoming addicted…

In recent years the number of women gambling has risen 100% in the UK. Today, they represent 25% of the gambling population. Many people are hailing the introduction of online bingo as the instigator for this dramatic increase. And without doubt, they do seem to have a point. The percentage of women gambling dramatically increasing, alongside the popularity of online bingo, seems no coincidence. According to the UK Gambling Commission, there are around a quarter of a million Brits harbouring a serious gambling addiction. However, that figure is contested by Gambler’s Anonymous, who believe that figure to be around 600,000.

So how much is too much? Dr Bowden Jones, head of the new ‘National Gambling Clinic’ in Soho, indicated that there are women playing up to ten hours a day: Logging on first thing in the morning and “not logging off until their partners come home”. Without doubt, this can be considered as excessive and the negative effects on their children has become a big concern - with children being dumped in front of the television and left to their own devices, while mum plays bingo. Certainly not ideal…. Which is why the NHS have opened this new clinic. The idea being that addicted mothers can take their children here to be looked after, while they receive counselling. And no-one need be the wiser. Apart from the person with the problem that is…

If you think you might be a bingo addict (beyond reasonable realms) seek help… sooner rather than later…

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on Bingo Addiction

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Hail Caesars Bingo!

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 15th December 2009

After all the festive activities you might think you can’t take any more excitement… well not until the next girl’s night out anyway ; ) Well that’s too bad if you can’t because Caesars Bingo is coming to town! Sources have revealed that American gaming giant Harrah are launching Caesars Bingo to the UK online bingo market in the new year. The launch has been scheduled for the first weeks of 2010 and should start things off nicely.

Harrah already have an online casino website, and rumour is that a poker site is also on the cards - pardon the pun! Even so, this will be there first time working and catering for the UK Bingo market. Curiously, Harrah have opted for the Gamesys software - also used by Sun Bingo and Jackpot Joy. Not that this bingo platform isn’t popular with players. It just seems odd that they run the Caesar Casino on Dragonfish, a tried and trusted leading bingo software provider. Yet have changed hands for their new venture.

The Caesar brand is renowned worldwide, so that should get them off on the right foot. The legendary Caesars palace in Vegas being among the most famous casino-come-resorts in the world. Eighty five acres dedicated to the glory of Rome and the glory of Vegas. Crowned king of the strip by those who have been lucky enough to sample what is among the world’s top luxury resorts.

Not a lot more info available at the moment. But stay tuned! Caesar Casino has a very generous welcome offer up for grabs - up to £500 in bonus money available. So there is every indication that the all new Caesars Bingo online will be equally as generous. So Roomies, keep those Bingo Dabbers crossed - X

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on Caesars Bingo

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Swedish Operator Buys Interactive Playnet

By Lisa West on Saturday, 19th December 2009

The global economic meltdown has undoubtedly had a negative affect upon the UK land based bingo industry. However, financial problems are not exclusive to those who are running land based operations… online operators have been having their fair share of difficulties. Only a few weeks ago The Bingo Entertainment Network came to the rescue of bingo software supplier Interactive Playnet - transferring all Interactive Playnet accounts over to Bingo Entertainments “YouGotBingo” Network.

Interactive Playnet first lowered the jackpots, then stopped taking deposits stating “This is very unfortunate and totally beyond our control. We have not shut down the network at the moment, however, we have suspended the deposit page and cut bingo pots”. However, before long the company froze all operations, “Due to the size of the funds and the seriousness of how this affects us operationally”.

Richard Chambers - company CEO - stated, “It is sad when you see something like this happen”. Even so, as Chambers states, the reason for an operators’ failure cannot always be blamed upon the economy; “some have been fraudulent and others as is the case with Interactive Playnet, a simple issue of mismanagement.” Without doubt, while the current economic turbulence continues, now is not a good time for management errors.

The “YouGotBingo” Bingo Entertainment Network includes several websites for American players. It seems the Swedish Company who have now purchased Interactive Playnet were slower to do so; due to legal concerns with regards to accepting American depositors.
The company planning to create a European operation using the Interactive Playnet software. Interactive Playnet Chief Operating Officer Nigel Simmons blames the shut down upon the “unpredictable and turbulent” nature of the current American market. In particular the “complicated legal issues surrounding this area of online gaming”. Adding, it was understandable that the new company, did not “ wish to continue accepting American depositors.” All we need to know now is who the mystery Swedes are : )

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces about Interactive Playnet

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Facebook To “Strictly Enforce” Bingo Advertising

By Lisa West on Monday, 21st December 2009

Facebook, probably one of the most powerful social networking websites online right now, have announced a revision of their advertising policies for 2010. This latest move by Facebook was initially ‘leaked’ by the “BigNews Network”…. the world's largest social networking website. According to them, Facebook are out to “enforce” it’s rules against “morally unacceptable products” - and gambling, which includes bingo as well as casino and sports betting websites, is on that list. Quite a statement…. Quite a decisive move too!

Facebook have around twenty products that are ‘no go’, which includes; Uncertified Pharmaceutical Products; Nudity; Adult Toys; Firearms; Inflammatory Religious Content; Dating Websites; Tobacco; Spy Cameras & Pyramid Schemes. Along with this relatively long list of prohibited content, Facebook also have a ‘section code’ that prohibits "gambling, including without limitation, any online casino, sports books, bingo, or poker."

Although it could be construed that Facebook are targeting online gambling, they insist they are not. And indeed, gambling is only one of many “products” to be ousted. Even so, it does seem like a rather curious move… but probably not as curious as their recently retracted ban on dairy products… who knows why that one came up…..maybe someone high up on the board is a strict vegan!

Will this have an impact on UK online bingo.. Probably not. This does seem a rather superfluous move by face book. After all, people watch these adverts on UK and Terrestrial TV all the time. Only recently Google announced it WOULD allow advertising for gambling to continue, with a UK targeted audience. Why? Because all these advertisements are legal and regulated by the government. All in all, it is difficult to see exactly what their objective is… what exactly they are trying to achieve. Maybe they aren’t trying to ‘achieve’ anything… just trying to stop their SOCIAL network getting clogged up with advertising. Guess they have to start somewhere!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces about Online Bingo

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Apollo Investment Corporation to Control Gala Coral

By Lisa West on Tuesday, 22nd December 2009

American Apollo Investment Corporation “provide private middle-market companies with an alternative to traditional financing sources.” According to their publicity at least! The fact is, Apollo have a serious amount of experience under their belt, with regards to saving debt ridden companies from extinction. And that is probably why they will be the company taking over the Gala Coral Group, including Gala Bingo - debts and all!

It has been no secret… Gala have been teetering on the edge of extinction for some time now; after accumulating more than two and a half billion pounds in debt. Only recently the company announced that a “debt restructuring” was in the pipeline and that the Blackstone group was making a bid to control of the company. If the latest news is correct, and Apollo have made an acceptable offer to take over Gala Coral, completion of the deal will probably be swift. According to sources, the offer on the table from Apollo is £250million in cold hard cash. For this, they expect a 50% stake in Gala Coral. Which means? The Apollo Investment Corporation will have control over the company.

Despite the fact that the Gala Coral Group have been experiencing huge financial problems, it hasn’t stopped them doling out the cash ‘big style’ at Gala Bingo. And there’s still thousands of pounds up for grabs, just in their special Christmas jackpot promotions. Plus, they are still offering free bingo every day at Gala Bingo. Through all the problems, Gala Bingo have shown few outward sign of a struggle - they may have been streamlining their clubs and staff… but certainly not the prizes! There’s a “winner every 16 seconds at Gala Bingo”! Let’s just hope the new ‘owners’ are going to keep it that way!

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

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888 Holdings Get The Wink For £60Million

By Lisa West on Thursday, 24th December 2009

An offer to purchase Wink Bingo, made by gaming giants 888 Holdings, has been approved. Which means? Well, it could mean a whole lot of things! But what seems to be 100% final, is that 888 Holdings are soon to be the proud owners of this top ranking UK online bingo website. But how much did it cost? After all, we aren’t talking go-Karts luvvies! Wink Bingo is ‘up there’, among the shiny, the powerful, the stylish and the EXPENSIVE!!!! According to sources, 888 Holdings will be handing over £60 million for Wink Bingo.

Without doubt, nobody expected the price tag to be light - Wink Bingo’s pre-tax profits in 2009 were £1.3 million. The website generating a revenue of around £15 million from January 1st to November 30th. Taking on such a profitable concern has to be good news for 888 - with the UK FTSE index closed at it’s highest for a year only days ago, they seems guaranteed to watch their shares grow…..probably….. substantially.

888 Holdings will be handing over £11Million immediately, not the entire £60Million. The balance is to be paid based on the earnings for the year, up until March 2011; with a £59.7 million cap on payments. Wink Bingo currently uses the Dragonfish platform, as do Posh and Bingo Fabulous, both of which are also included within the Wink Bingo network.

Wink Bingo was only launched in 2008, yet this popular bingo website already has around SIXTY THOUSAND PLAYERS! And counting… It seems a hard task to improve on that! So what does 888Holdings have in store for Wink bingo… What’s the plan???? If anything! According to the CEO of 888 Holdings, Gigi Levy, the company are “delighted to announce the Wink Bingo acquisition …….. as an expansion of our B2C online Bingo footprint in the lucrative UK market.” As Levy also points out, “The Wink team has a proven track record of excellence in marketing, CRM and execution”. Adding that they “will be a great addition to our growing Bingo business. In addition the transaction is financially attractive and will be earnings enhancing." In short? More customers… more revenue… more profit.. Sounds like a winner!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on Wink Bingo

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Gala Bingo TV - 2010 Expansion

By Lisa West on Monday, 28th December 2009

Gala Bingo TV has built a huge and loyal following during 2009. And why not? It’s entertaining… has some great prizes on offer… and is easily accessible - players can either join in through their Sky (channel 861) or join the feed via the gala bingo.com website. Despite all the problems at Gala this year, the company has continued to invest “it’s” money and efforts into producing a class Bingo TV channel. And it seems those efforts have not been in vain.

Due the huge popularity of Gala TV during 2009, the company have now scheduled the show to begin an hour earlier. Gala Bingo TV is broadcast live, and during 2010 the show will start at 5pm. Not 4pm as was the case during 2009. To get the ‘show on the road’ in the right direction, Gala Bingo TV will be laying on the free bingo… big style! Last year Gala offered free bingo on the hour every Thursday. Now? Players can also look forward to a free bingo “Saturday special” treat. For the moment, word is there will be three free bingo games each Saturday throughout January.

Gala Coral, the parent company of Gala Bingo have had a rough year. However, with the latest news of a take over, hopefully the worst is over. Now Gala Bingo can really ’get back to business’. New players need to deposit and wager £5 to receive a £10 welcome bonus at Gala Bingo. That’s a 200% cash match! No bad at all.. Plus, register your nectar card at gala Bingo and you will also be collecting points while you play. Another very easy way to get your dabbers down for some free bingo.

More and more online bingo websites seem to show up every day. Even so, operators like Gala Bingo have been around for a long time and know a thing or two about keeping their members entertained… just a shame they haven’t been quite so good at keeping their bank manager equally so!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on Gala Bingo TV

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Cheeky Bingo - the busiest bingo site around?

By Lisa West on Friday, 29th January 2010

EGaming Review recently released an online publication that revealed statistics show Cheeky Bingo had the most players logging on during December. These stats do not include all the major online bingo operators. However, they do include all the operators currently using the Dragonfish bingo network. And that has some big names on it, like Wink Bingo and the UK No1 operator, the great Foxy. When you consider they are part of the equation, and yet the busiest site on the network is a free online bingo website (as well as the second busiest!) - you have to take notice…. These statistics do seem to be highlighting just how huge the impact of online bingo sites has been, during the last 12months.

Cheeky Bingo were the first operator to launch a dedicated free online bingo website. Offering free games and real cash prize money it’s popularity became phenomenal, and in July 09 Costa Bingo also launched onto the UK free online bingo scene. Many Bingo enthusiasts and workers within the industry, since trying to call the ‘popularity stakes’ between Cheeky Bingo and Costa - not an easy thing to do… According to the stats from Dragonfish, while Cheeky averaged 1608 players a day, and Costa Bingo 1408 players a day during December, Foxy and Wink Bingo didn’t even hit the 1000 player mark.

According to Costa Bingo’s CEO Richard Skelhorn, the statistics prove that the free online bingo model works, with regards to attracting new members. And while there has certainly been a marked notice of late, with regards to the bonuses in place for depositing players, Skelhorn has stated that the company will not be abandoning the free play strategy, stating; “We are confident in our product offering and encouraging players to try our free bingo experience before making the decision to deposit with us.”

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on Cheeky Bingo

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Free No Deposit Bingo On It's Way Out?

By Lisa West on Saturday, 2nd January 2010

The free play bingo model seems to have become a success in the UK, in a relatively short amount of time; with major free play operators such as Cheeky Bingo and Costa Bingo pulling in more players than the likes of Wink and Foxy Bingo. That is, according to the latest statistics released by Dragonfish and eGaming magazine. However, while they may be claiming success other such operators are far from pulling in the players…. Despite offering up a tonne of free bingo online. Plus, it has been noted that some ‘free play’ website operators have recently been changing their tact. Moving their interests over to depositing players; abandoning their no deposit, free play, real cash prize offerings.

Bingo.com is bingo portal where members can enjoy a free or pay to play game of bingo…. and of course… a good Chat! After all, it just ‘aint’ bingo if you can’t have a chinwag with your fellow roomies! What’s so extraordinary about that I hear you ask??? Well… nothing! But what is extraordinary is that this operators figures for the first three quarters of 2009 showed losses. The final figures in the third quarter for 2009, from July to September, revealing the company lost more that £125K a month. With overall losses for the year, showing an 8% fall in revenues.

Why is this company in trouble? They have been around for eons - Bingo.com LTD (the company) are based in the West Indies and were originally founded way back in 1987 - and have been providing online bingo to players from around the world since 1999. With such a long time in the industry - as well as the No1 domain name for bingo! - one would think these guys had it in ‘the bag’…. According to Tarrnie Williams, Chief Executive for Bingo.com, the losses are down to players “becoming more sophisticated”…

So does that mean we will be seeing some big changes soon at bingo.com? At the moment they are still offering players a free £15 no deposit welcome bonus, and the prize jackpots in their pay to play bingo games are still offering some seriously BIG prize money. My advice… get in there while the going’s still good!

This was an article by LJ for Bingo faces on free no deposit bingo

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