Coinslot 2340 digital by GB Media Corporation

Price: £2.50

November 1 –Job November 7, Lot 2013Flap • No.Advert_test 2340 • www.coinslot.co.uk 0018 Bank Rob the 27/10/2013 20:57 Page

2340-p02-inside flap:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

15:06

Page 1

COINSLOT

COMMENT

Industry news Seaside amusements Bingo sector Latest machine charts B2B Listings For sale, wanted + opps Jabro Surreal Soccer Comment and opinion

The pub industry has had a tough time. Policies and working practices have been under the spotlight, but Draconian intervention could be the worst possible thing to do... 23

4 8 10 15 16 18 21 22

Southern coastal resorts hit by STORM SUMMARY

Gusts of 99mph were reported on the Isle of Wight; 77mph in Southampton and 75mph80mph in parts of Wiltshire. Seaside businesses in Aldeburgh, East Anglia, were hit hard by a widespread loss of power caused by Monday’s storm, with high street businesses losing out during half-term - a ‘key week’ for the town’s economy. Torquay attraction, the English Riviera Wheel, was closed as a precaution, but has since reopened and the firework display on November 3 will go ahead as planned. Severe gales in Snettisham, Heacham and Hunstanton caused high waves to wash over and erode the coast. This resulted in the loss of approximately 1,200 cubic metres of the shingle ridge from the Heacham Dam area

alone, and the erosion was as much as three metres in some places. Pubs across southern UK experienced a drop in trade after the worst storm in five years battered parts of the country, although Boi DeBuna, assistant manager at the

Commission issues regarding illegal gam CRACKDOWN

racking down on illegal gamC bling was top of the agenda at a training event run by the Gambling Commission’s Local Authority Liaison Unit (LALU) at Hull City Council this week.Over 100 delegates from local authorities and police forces were shown what to look for when checking suspected illegal gaming machines, as well as being provided with updates on the latest legislation and guidance on gambling. This follows concerns raised by councils about illegal gaming machines and the requirement for more information and training to address the problem. More than 150 unlicensed and illegal gaming machines have been seized by agencies working with the Commission across England

in the last year. The Gambling Commission’s Rob Burkitt, who co-presented the training said:“This was a great opportunity for the Commission to pass on its expertise to local police and council officers on what to look for when dealing with illegal gaming machines, as it’s important they know the difference between machines that are legal and those that are not.” He continued: “Supplying gaming machines or making them available to the public without the appropriate licence or permission is a criminal offence. By their very nature, illegal gaming machines are unlikely to comply with Gambling Act licensing objectives which are aimed at ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly, pro-

2340-p03-front:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

14:56

Page 2

INDUSTRY

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Tied pubs want freedom and choice

Full house for bingo

30 November 1 - November 7, 2013 • No. 2340 • www.coinslot.co.uk

ts hit by wind and torrential rain

St Jude’s Day storm causes havoc at seaside resorts OCTOBER STORMS

Resorts on Britain’s southern coastline has been affected by severe storms, with Clacton Pier’s iconic helter-skelter being badly hit. onday’s storms, which swept across the south west of England causing up to one in ten homes to lose their power, caused havoc at a number of UK seaside coin-op strongholds, notably Clacton, where the town’s iconic 50ft high helter-skelter was blown over. The structure, on Clacton Pier, collapsed early on Monday morning but did not fall into the sea, according to Tendring District Council said.Witness Chris Woodley said the slide appeared to have fallen on to the amusement arcade, while the rollercoaster also looked like it was ‘breaking up’. The pier’s operator confirmed that no-one was hurt and the area has been evacuated. BBC Essex reporter James Waterhouse said other amusements had also been hit,including a climbing frame with a ball pit which has toppled over. One eye-witness said: “The helter-skelter was the tallest thing on the pier, the kids loved it.” Sharon Charters, from the pier’s management team, told Sky News that the pier was shut at 3pm on Sunday 27 October as a precaution, and that they were hoping to get the helter skelter reassembled during the winter with a view to having it completely rebuilt by summer 2014. The historical helter skelter, which had become an iconic part of the Clacton skyline before Monday’s storm, has now gone into storage ahead of hopefully being repaired and reinstalled. A council spokesman spoke of the authority’s disappointment at the ride collapsing, saying:“Any of the main rides on the pier are crucial to Clacton.” Elsewhere, metal sheeting has been seen being blown off the pier at Walton-on-the-Naze, while Walton Pier has also been damaged in the wind.The Tendring council spokesman said because so many

Fortune of War on Brighton seafront, said trade was busier than usual on Sunday night due to locals heading to the pub in order to witness the storm. On Monday, the Environment Agency said there were 12 flood warnings in place across

the South West, the Midlands and the East of England. There were also 130 flood alerts telling people to be prepared for flooding. Hampshire County Council said 145 roads were shut at some point due to the weather conditions.

sues guidelines l gaming machines

tecting children and vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling, and keeping crime out of gambling. “All of these can have an impact on local community safety and so we regularly support councils and police forces across the country on joint operations to remove illegal gaming

machines.” Councillor Nadine Fudge, chair of Hull City Council’s Licensing Committee, (pictured) said:“Hull City Council is pleased to host this event and support the Gambling Commission in dealing with illegally supplied and sited gaming machines and highlighting the risks that they pose. She added:“Of course the vast majority of premises in Hull are law abiding and responsible and there is a good level of self regulation. However, we must be conscious of the fact that unlicensed premises do exist and we shall continue to work with the Gambling Commission, Humberside Police and HM Revenue & Customs to ensure that unlawfully sited gaming machines are removed.”

trees had also fallen down in the district, it was “running out of chainsaws”. The storm has affected commuters in Essex, with most rail services throughout the county being suspended. Parts of the country were placed on flood alert with the Environment Agency issuing 12 flood warnings for the South West, as well as 131 flood alerts for the rest of England and Wales. The public was warned to expect the possibility of power cuts, trees blocking roads and transport disruption. Meanwhile, in Newquay 100 properties were left without power for part of the night,and emergency services were called out to almost 40 incidents.

HS MONT ! Y A P TO

Sharon Taylor, assistant chief constable for Devon and Cornwall Police,told the BBC on Monday:“So far we have had 122 weatherrelated incidents, that includes 19 reported areas with localised flooding.We have put out over 100 extra police officers, including over 50 special constables. I am pleased to say that the majority of incidents are those reported by our own staff and other agencies out on the road,so it does seem that the public have taken to heart the advice we have been giving out over the weekend. We have got a significant number of flood warnings in place and certainly at least 19 areas where we have got localised flooding at the moment.”

2340-p04-05-industry:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

14:37

Page 1

Coinslot November 1 - November 7, 2013

Industry

TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

Astra takes price reduction plunge MANUFACTURERS

Bridgend based gaming machine manufacturer Astra Games has initiated a bold new initiative aimed at stimulating the UK coin-op sector. n an effort to give operators and retailers a boost,Astra has implemented a new pricing policy for upgrades. In essence, retailers and operators will have access to proven, high-earning games in one of the industry’s most iconic cabinets, all for an outlay of just £30 or £35 per week depending on whether they opt for Cat C or Cat B3. Explaining more about the rationale behind this exciting prospect wasAstra Games sales and marketing director Alan Rogers. He noted: “Magic Games and Magic Lotto have become a familiar part of the UK coinop landscape, which prompted us during a

recent board meeting to explore how these games could be adopted by beleaguered operators and retailers in a way that would help drive their business, but without a high cost burden. “CEO Zane Mersich took up the challenge and,via his many European contacts, managed to secure access to significant quantities of the iconic FV623 cabinet that Magic Games and Magic Lotto were originally housed in.We’re now able to use those cabinets to offer Magic Games 3 to the market and these will qualify for a free upgrade to the new £100 jackpot in January. Coupled with that, we are also using the FV623 cabinet to offer the Cat B3

Magic Lotto Ultra which takes the original Magic Lotto package and adds 10 new titles to create a 14game library.” Rogers believes that this new offer represents fantastic value for operators. He added:“Our customers are highly knowledgeable and understand more than most that they must invest in their businesses to stay ahead of the competition. But with challenging trading conditions prevailing, it’s incumbent on us as manufacturers to give them access to great games at a price point where we can all make a living.This deal ticks all the boxes - great product in a great cabinet at an affordable price.”

uring the House of Commons Prime Ministerial D Q&A session on October 23,

AMUSEMENTS

ollowing on from being awarded a further five-year contract with Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach, HB Leisure has been awarded the contract to provide games for Dubai Global Village’s major new Fantasy Island attraction. It will provide 16 fun fair-style games and an extensive offering of coin-operated amusements in the Coney Island-themed attraction.

Tom Watson, the Labour MP for West Bromwich East,asked Prime Minister David Cameron:“Fixed-odds betting machines allow the user to stake £100 every 20 seconds for up to 13 hours a day.They have transformed the local bookies from places where

oin-op solutions provider Project has C announced the launch of a

has recently happened in Ireland?” Cameron responded:“This is an issue on which I have been repeatedly lobbied by people across the House and more broadly. I do think that it is worth having a proper look at the issue to see what we can people went for a flutter on do.Yes, we want to ensure that the horses into high street dig- bookmakers are not over-regital casinos. Will the Prime ulated, but we also want a fair Minister consider banning and decent approach that prethese addictive machines, as vents problem gambling.”

Mooted Blackpool EMRO could ‘open floodgates’ to more RESORTS

lackpool could “open the floodgates” to early morning B restriction orders being implemented elsewhere, the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers Autumn Conference heard last week. The ALMR’s strategic affairs director Kate Nicholls said there has been a “bit of a lull” in councils looking at EMROs after an initial “rush of applications,” but added: “If Blackpool goes through then

EMRO, and if other authorities might walk away from the idea if Blackpool scraps the plan.Nicholls responded: “I think you’re absolutely right.” Speaking at the ALMR Autumn Conference in Bath, Nicholls emphasised the lengths that the police and authorities in Blackpool have gone to as they try to secure an EMRO, which would restrict lots of other people will follow.” Paul Chase, CPL Training’s head opening times in designated areas. She pointed out that the council of compliance, asked whether the Lancashire resort could “open the has hired five QCs to argue the case, floodgates” if it introduces an while the police have knocked on

Project launches Mega Bars upgrade kit CONTENT PROVIDERS

HB Leisure secures Cameron calls for ‘fair and decent approach’ major new contract FIXED ODDS TERMINALS

Email: al@sjc.co.uk

doors of bed and breakfast outlets asking if they had a problem with crime and disorder and urging them to support an EMRO. She also pointed out that Blackpool’s proposed EMRO excludes the Winter Garden entertainment complex in the town centre, which the council owns, and the casino, which it part owns. The hearing into Blackpool’s EMRO was due to take place last month but was deferred after failings were highlighted in the council’s pre-hearing procedure.

kit which will enable operators to upgrade their existing Mega Bars stand alone into part of a wider choice compendium of games. The simple upgrade kit comprises a second screen which converts the Mega Bars V19 cabinet into a compendium with the capacity to hold up to ten different games from Project’s extensive library of popular and proven earners. Explaining the thinking behind the launch, Project managing director Tony Boulton said: “We are very much in tune with the needs and the pressures facing our customers in what remain testing trading conditions. As a result, we have arrived at what we believe to be an extremely cost-effective method for operators to retain their existing Mega Bars whilst enhancing the offering by adding new games. He concluded: “Once again, we appreciate the price sensitive nature of the market and have addressed every cost element with our suppliers in order to keep the price of the kit down to £350. This represents a straightforward upgrade path for operators to freshen their product offering.”

2340-p04-05-industry:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

14:24

Page 2

New FSB survey confirms ‘tied pubs’ want freedom and choice PUBS

esearch by the FSB which surveyed 500 pub landlords tied to one of the big pub companies asked what they thought about how much rent they pay and how much of the profits the pubco takes. The overall response was overwhelmingly that the pub tie is ‘grossly unfair’. Landlords tied to Enterprise Inns, which has around 6,000 pubs across the UK, were among the more vocal when it comes to feeling worse off in terms of how much rent they pay and the amount of profit they think the pubco takes. Eighty four per cent

of respondents felt Enterprise took too much of the profits. Punch,which has around 4,000 pubs across the country, came in second as 81 per cent of respondents tied to the company believe they take a much larger

share of pub profits. The FSB has long campaigned for a fairer playing field for publicans that rent pubs from one of the big pub companies.The trade body stated:“Self-regulation of the industry hasn’t worked and the FSB is

pleased that government is intervening and looking at legislative action.” Respondents to the survey say that if they could be free they would give more choice to their customers, with 62 per cent saying they would stock a greater range of beers. Moreover,almost all respondents (91 per cent) would approach microbreweries for products. The FSB has worked with Greg Mulholland MP and supports the campaign he has spearheaded on getting a ‘Fair Deal for your Local'. JohnAllan,national chairman, Federation of Small Businesses, said: “The

results speak for themselves. The big pubcos are as bad as each other and their tenants don’t feel they are getting a fair deal. They want to give their punters more choice as well as interesting craft beers too.The statutory code can’t come soon enough. The largest pub companies are able to control the relationships to their own advantage and are under pressure to reduce their debts by increasing income from rent and selling off pubs. Considering current conditions we believe that it is not possible for the large pub companies to operate credible voluntary regulation.”

Grand Pier celebrates third birthday PIERS

he Grand Pier in Weston Super Mare Tcelebrated its birthday last weekend by holding a party and free family fun day three years since reopening after being destroyed by a fire in 2008. Pier general manager, Paul Charalambous, said: “We are already turning our attention to the concerts and events programme for next year, which will be even bigger.”

2340-p06-07-industry:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

13:56

Page 1

Coinslot November 1 - November 7, 2013

Industry

INDUSTRY AMUSEMENTS LEISURE

B2B COMMENT NEWSWEEK SECTOR Essential Guide takes a look at the bingo sector and some of the products shaping its direction. 10

Newton Aycliffe WMC ‘here to stay’ WORKING MEN’S CLUBS

he secretary of a popular working Tmen’s club in the north east of England has

dismissed claims that it is struggling financially. In recent weeks, rumours have been circulating that Newton Aycliffe Working Men’s

Club, known locally as the Big Club could close and that administrators had been called in. However, club secretary Mick Dooney

has labelled the inaccurate reports as ‘ridiculous’ and has stressed there is ‘no chance’ of the club going into administration.

He said the popular venue, which has about 4,000 members, was very much open for business and would be for years to come.

CRIME

man has pleaded not guilty to robbery in conA nection with an armed raid

Armitage Leisure and Enterprise site enjoy double Paragon delight SWP

The Black Dog, an Enterprise house at Crawshawbooth near Rossendale in Lancashire, has double cause for celebration, with not one but two National Winners in Megatouch World Tournament events on their networked Paragon SWP terminal.

Lancashire pub has been the unexpected venue for two big Megatouch prize winners. Firstly, regular customer at the Black Dog Kerry Goodall - won the £500 top prize in the trial version of National Skill Challenge,a newTri-Towers Prize Competition involving text messaged entries. Just a month later, licensee Paul Harrison scooped the £1,000 top prize in the regular Megatouch World National Tournament. Rick Moriarty, the Enterprise regional manager responsible for the Black Dog, and Stuart Brown of machine operator

Armitage Leisure, were both on hand to present the two winners with their cheques. Rick Moriarty commented:“It is fantastic to see machine suppliers and game designers working together to provide our customers with such creative and rewarding SWP game content and everyone at Enterprise is obviously delighted for Kerry and Paul that their skill at these great games has enabled them to come out on top.” Black Dog licensee Paul Harrison added:“The tournament games on Paragon have been terrific for my pub, attracting a core of

Innovative Technology joins BACTA TRADE ASSOCIATIONS

ank note validator manufacture Innovative B Technology has become a

DISTRIBUTORS

espite becoming an authorised Barcrest disD tributor in early October,

Arcade raid suspect pleads not guilty

at an amusement arcade in Kent. Gary Grannells, 25, of Notting Hill,west London denied robbing Mr G’s arcade in Leysdown-on-Sea on the Isle of Sheppey in June. Grannells did admit to handling stolen goods and two charges of assaulting a police officer causing actual bodily harm. The raid was thought to have been carried out by three men, one of whom swung a large axe at a female member of staff and demanded cash from the safe. After the member of staff handed over around £3,000 in cash, the men fled the scene.Grannells was arrested in the Wembley area of London just four days later. He was remanded in custody at Maidstone Crown Court ahead of a trial, the date of which will be set in December.

AMG looks to continue expansion ahead of London show

ings will ensure we remain at the forefront of all prospective industry changes. In a move to furmember of BACTA for the ther stamp our commitfirst time. Commenting on ment to the UK industry I the membership, business can announce that our development manager Ian stand at next year’s EAG Fuller said: “This year we Expo in January will be the have joined both BISL and largest space we have ever BACTA, confirming Innovataken at the show allowing tive Technology’s commitment to the UK amusement helping to strengthen and shape us to show our complete range of innovative cash handling industry.We will look to be active the future of the UK industry.” Fuller concluded:“The legisla- solutions for the amusement members of both organisations and relish the opportunity of tion updates and regular meet- industry.”

players who visit regularly, stick around for longer and put coins in the cashbox like nothing I have ever seen before.” Armitage Leisure has worked closely with Enterprise since 1999 and as an established supplier to managed, tenanted, nontied free house estates and sports/social clubs, is one of the leading operators in the North of England. Armitage’s Stuart Brown concluded:“This genre of game requires extra work and promotion from the licensee and the retailer but as Paul keeps on showing, the rewards in terms of income are clear to see.”

Margate regeneration hits NYC headlines regeneration of Margate has hit headlines in New York. The city’s TNewhetheYork Times magazine featured a two-page article on October 18, highlighting how the development of Turner Contemporary has helped open up the seaside town to visitors and stating that it was “a controversial undertaking” and a “$27.7m gamble”.

Ripon-based firm AMG Leisure is not resting on its laurels. Buoyed by the Barcrest deal, the company is looking to take on further distribution lines ahead of EAG 2014. AMG’s Terry Farr told Coinslot:“The Barcrest distribution deal has of course been massive for us, and we won’t be stopping there in terms of bringing in more high-profile distribution lines.” He added:“We’re already looking ahead to the EAG International in January as to how to maximise our stand space in order to present all our new and existing lines to their best advantage. The EAG will give us the perfect showcase to show the market that we’re optimistic for the industry’s prospects and to this end we’re massively looking forward to it.” Farr continued:“The Barcrest deal has given us the chance to expose our customer base to some wonderful products.Many of whom hadn’t previously had access to Barcrest products and at this point in time we’re just scratching the surface of getting these new lines to market.We’ve been particularly impressed by their T8 widescreen and dual-screen cabinets.” He concluded: “At present, we’re really enjoying the opportunity to do deals with people to upgrade their machine stock and as part of this we’ve set into motion a programme of making sure all our customers have access to £100 as soon as is humanly possible.”

2340-p08-Amusements:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

17:26

Page 1

Coinslot November 1 - November 7, 2013

Amusements

TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

Merlin plans to float on London Stock Market

Email: al@sjc.co.uk

briefs

amusements

FINANCIAL

The owner of Alton Towers, Legoland, London Eye and Madame Tussauds has said it will offer at least 20 per cent of the company to investors. But will that be a magical offer from Merlin.

AUGUST BREAKS RECORDS Holiday visits broke monthly records for the fourth consecutive month in August, with the UK welcoming the most inbound holiday visits ever in a single month. August visitors spent only one per cent less than the record set in August 2012, which saw its average spend boosted considerably during the Olympics.

CHRISTMAS HAS COME EARLY... THE NEW MILESTONES IN MUSIC JUKEBOX FOR ONLY £1645 INCLUDES £205 CASH BACK FROM SOUNDNET

UPGRADE AND SECURE YOUR SITES WITH THE UK’S MOST POPULAR JUKEBOX TECHNOLOGY Rent a Music Milestones for £24.99 per week includes music costs. Call Soundnet now on 020 7644 8888 www.soundnet.net www.soundleisure.com

t: 020 7644 8888 t: 0845 230 1775

erlin Entertainments plans to float on the London stock market in a deal that could value it at more than £4bn. The amusements attractions firm said it plans to raise £200m by selling new shares in an initial public offering to pay down debt, which stands at around £1.2bn. Once the float is completed,Merlin will have 20 per cent of its shares listed, implying an equity valuation of £3bn. The new share offer will be accessible to smaller shareholders, with a minimum investment stake of £1,000. Shareholders will also get a 30 per cent discount on an annual pass to Merlin sites for either two adults or a family. Merlin, which was valued at £2.25bn in 2010 when private equity firm CVC bought its stake, had hoped to float that year, but abandoned the plan because of market volatility. However, an increase in demand for stock market flotations and stronger equity markets have helped to support a pick-up in new London listings. Merlin Entertainments chief executive Nick Varney said the share sale would provide the company with the platform for its next stage of development and allow it to

plan for the longer term. “Merlin Entertainments comes to the market with a consistent record of strong growth in both revenues and profits and bright prospects for the future,”he said. Varney commented in March that the group planned to cut net debt from £1.27bn to less than three times ebitda,ahead of listing. Private equity firm Apax Partners created Merlin by backing a £57m management buyout of Vardon Attractions in 1998. Hermes Private Equity bought the company for £72.5m in 2004 before selling it to Blackstone for £102.5m a year later. The company operates 99 attractions in 22 countries, which attracted more than 54m visitors in 2012, generating total revenue of £1.07bn and underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of £346m. The group said it had continued to trade well in the year to date, with revenues up 11 per cent to £888.7m in the 35 weeks to the end of August,including growth of 7.1 per cent without investment in new attractions. The number of visitors to Merlin’s parks has grown 11 per cent every year since 2008.

NEW SITE SEARCH FOR HAYLING ISLAND TOURIST ATTRACTION The future of Hayling Island Seaside Railway has been secured for next year after fears it could close for good. Volunteers were told they must leave their base at Funlands Amusement Park when the lease runs out in December but that has now been extended through to the end of 2014. The pressure is now on to find a new site ready for 2015. FAMILY SEASIDE FUN CONSTRAINTS According to a poll for National Family Week, the average UK family spends just 49 minutes together a week. The stresses and strains of modern living, as well as the expense of traditional but occasional trips to the seaside and amusement parks have been cited as reasons why families don’t have the time or means to interact together.

KEEP PACE WITH

THE INDUSTRY

THE AMUSEMENT & LEISURE SHOW

www.eagexpo.com scan me

T: +44 (0)1582 767 254 E: sales@eagexpo.com Presented by

B AC T A Representing the British Amusement Industry

Supported by

2340-p10-15-Essential:Coinslot NEW

B 2 B

15 This week’s machine charts

16 B2B listings and industry marketplace

29/10/13

15:28

Page 1

Essential Guide to... Bingo Sector BINGO OPERATIONS

COMMENT

Community Cat C games continue to grow in popularity

Bingo - the byword for battling back

18 Classified sales, job and business opps

21 Jabro Surreal Soccer season

Nigel Davis, head of machines for Praesepe, which operates nine Beacon bingo venues in the UK, discusses the ongoing importance of gaming revenues in the sector. oinslot: With 2013 rapidly drawing to a close, how would you sum up trading in your bingo venues this year? Nigel Davis: It’s been a good performance, and on a par with AGCs,up until the shiny thing in the sky came out which has impacted business, together with the introduction of the government’s austerity measures. Current trading is tough and we are constantly reviewing our product to make sure we provide value sessions that suit our customer’s pockets.

The UK land-based bingo sector can recover from some serious legislative and economic blows, with the help of strong trade body backing, engaging new coin-op products and the expertise and belief of its stakeholders.

alex lee foreword

CS: What impact do you foresee the Cat C prize uplift to have on your bingo operations? ND:The impact of £100 on Cat C controlled games will be more attractive to some players than the more random B3s, freeing up these limited numbers for those that want to play them. We have a strategy ready for day one and will be discussing this, along with other ideas, with all the manufacturers who will be at our forthcoming Machines Symposium. CS: Could you detail and marketing or promotional exercised you undertook in 2013? ND:We believe in letting our general managers use their local knowledge to manage their businesses, so we do not have many central promotions. This allows our managers to be proactive and at the same time be reactive to local market forces.

NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

Essential Guide to jukebox Next Week Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

CS: Which gaming products performed particularly well in 2013 and why do you think this is? ND: Community Cat C has seen some of the best growth in bingo during the current year, mainly video-based such as SG Gaming’s Money Mad Martians and Rainbow Party.But we’ve also seen a demand for reel-based games - not just legacy but new rules machines such as Electrocoin’s Bar X Extreme and Astra’s Bullion Bars (three player), and Piggy Banker from Empire Games, to name a few. CS: There has been a trend over recent months for some bingo operators to focus on upgrading/revamping their existing venues. Has Beacon been doing the same, or are you confident that your estate already offers what consumers desire? ND: We believe we have invested wisely through various initiatives to improve the customer experience, but at present we don’t need to complete any major revamps in any clubs. However, this does not mean we will not in the future.

hile 2013 has undeniably seen mixed fortunes for the bingo sector, there have been signs that W investments previously made in research and development are beginning to show a return, as the industry strives to move towards a common technology platform. The tax regime under which the bingo sector is forced to operate remains a serious issue for all licensed bingo club operators. To the annoyance of operators, taxation of UK land-based bingo remains unreasonably penalised by a higher rate of Gross Profit Tax than other gambling activities. The Bingo Association supports the longer term objective of tax harmonisation across all gambling activities at a consistent rate of 15 per cent and it continues to lobby the government in a bid to have this implemented. Credit, therefore, must go to the Bingo Association, the National Bingo Game and BACTA - all three of whom have supported their members with a view to delivering to members the services they require to help them manage the many challenges around taxation, VAT licensing, lobbying, best practice and whichever issues may arise with the Gambling Commission. From a broad coin-op industry perspective, it was perhaps inevitable that the overall excellent 2013 trading season enjoyed by coastal arcade operators would be somehow offset by losses in other sectors. The recent results published by the Rank Group, alongside the on-going rumours of Gala looking to sell to the highest would suggest that the bingo sector didn’t enjoy its most glorious summer. Even Rank’s chairman and CEO Ian Burke admitted that Mecca’s bingo may have lost a bit of its community aspect, but stated that while his company has not yet found a way to broaden the appeal of land-based bingo, it hasn’t given up on it. The above revelations notwithstanding, the bingo sector has been a fixture of UK life for several decades now. Furthermore, the level of support it receives from the likes of the Bingo Association and BACTA as well as the likes of distributor RLMS Sales and gaming network provider the NRM Group should help it rise again as a reinvented pastime for adults of all ages.

2340-p10-15-Essential:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

15:46

Page 2

B 2 B

Sector Overview Cat C support

Serving the community

Machine revenues continue to bolster bingo operations across the UK, and the sector is set to be boosted further by next year’s introduction of the £100 prize limit for Category C gaming.

Community gaming has proven itself to be the perfect format for AGC and bingo operations, as both venues attract regular customers who welcome the opportunity of being able to play in a group environment and share bonus features.

A game for the nation

Royal Gala

The National Bingo Game, known to many regular bingo players as ‘The National’, is run and managed by The National Bingo Game Association. The game offers players at participating clubs the opportunity to win life enhancing cash prizes twice a day, every day of the year, except Christmas Day, and the chance to win one or more of three cash prizes.

For over 20 years, Gala Bingo has been one of the UK’s most loved and trusted bingo operators, with over 143 clubs, 5m members, and paying out prizes across retail and online of over £42m per week.

SWOT ANALYSIS

Coin-op’s most sociable sector While the UK’s land-based bingo halls could undeniably do with being permitted to site B2 gaming machines, the sector is gradually reinventing itself to offer widespread player appeal. hile bingo has long been part of the social landscape of the UK, its many and varied UK operators must take some of the credit as the pastime’s image gradually transforms from that of an activity almost exclusively for the ‘blue rinse brigade’ to an all-inclusive fun night out. Of course, social interaction and inclusion have always been at the heart of the game, with bingo at the heart of many of the UK’s communities. Bingo’s commitment to community well-being is just as strong now as it ever has been and there are plenty of examples to back up this assertion. The willingness of the Gala Bingo hall in Aldershot to relocate in order to aid the town’s latest development scheme is one such example, with the local council admitting that without Gala’s co-operation the move simply couldn’t go ahead. Similarly, Leo Leisure has proved that independent operators can straddle several entertainment sectors successfully. The Eastbourne-based Pevensey Road Bingo Club has added a children’s soft play centre to its bingo offering in a bid to entertain people of all ages. Today’s diversified bingo scene, with its many and varied game styles and of course its ancillary machine offering encourages social interaction and through participation in a shared activity builds robust communities, which are open to all regardless of age or gender. Bingo is a remarkably ‘broad church’, appealing to a wide and diverse range of people, who all enjoy the game. All forms of bingo equipment manu-

facturers and suppliers have supported the sector with quality products for decades. Some of the latest and most exciting innovations to have appeared on the UK coin-op landscape lately have been developed with the bingo market firmly in mind. Mecca in particular has concentrated hard on delivering a suitable machine offering by allocating dedicated staff and resources to this area of the sector. Furthermore, we must not forget that the bingo sector has long been a valuable asset to coin-op and now that bingo clubs are entitled to have 20 per cent of their total machines as Cat B3 machines and the maximum stake for Cat B3s increased to £2, the machine gaming side of the sector has been given a muchneeded shot in the arm. While sporadic news of closures is never welcomed, this is often counterbalanced by revelations of successful independent operators actively recruiting staff members. Undeniably, the bingo sector has felt the effect of many external factors that have served to create a tough trading landscape. Many of these factors have been created by government ‘intervention’ - legislation, regulation, bureaucracy and the smoke ban to name but a few.The bingo sector has had to be creative and innovative in order to offset the damage created by the above - in the face of a burdensome, punitive tax regime. Despite the array of negative impacts experienced bingo is beginning to emerge from this gloom with the benefit of a small tax reduction, the above

mentioned uplift in B3 machines and some creative marketing on the part of both corporate and independent bingo organisations. Additionally, there has been no shortage of innovation and experimentation on the part of both manufacturers and distributors in a sector that has never been found wanting for enthusiasm. While online bingo can be seen as a threat, there is no doubt that land-based bingo receives some benefit from online advertising. Players who make the effort to visit bingo halls have an array of new products to play above and beyond the traditional ‘dabber and bingo card’ offer. With the land-based bingo sector proving strong in terms of new product, new innovations and a much broader audience than ever before, there is no doubt that, along with its durable and proven core offer, bingo can go from strength to strength. Overall, it would be true to say that despite experiencing some tough times due to a number of legislative factors, the bingo sector continues to show its resilience and ability to understand the needs of an ever-changing customer demographic.

SWOT ANALYSIS BINGO SECTOR STRENGTHS • Strong trade body in shape of Bingo Association • Long-established, simple to understand offering • Big marketing pushes have broadened player appeal WEAKNESSES • Despite wider demographic, bingo can still broaden its attraction further • Smoke ban has reduced ‘in-between gameplay’ on machines OPPORTUNITIES • Creative Cat B3 games coming to market • Handheld solutions permeating sector • Message that bingo halls are even more vital to community in wake of pub closures THREATS • Taxation levels still too high • Online bingo • FOBTs in bookmakers

Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

2340-p10-15-Essential:Coinslot NEW

B 2 B

29/10/13

16:03

Page 3

Essential Guide to ... Bingo Sector Market Analysis DISTRIBUTORS

SYSTEMS

Machine offering ‘a key profit driver’ for bingo

Testament to the company’s skills and expertise, NRM Group holds the prestigious service contract for The National Bingo Game, which was awarded by The National Bingo Game Association (NGBA) in 1995. Andrew Ludlow, managing director of NRM Group, explains the importance of the National Game in the wider context of the UK’s bingo sector.

A growing percentage of RLMS Sales’ business is derived from the bingo sector, according to sales director, Tony Glanville. bingo sector always has and continues to be an important market for RLMS “Sales.The If you trace our history, we were part of the Rank Group. Mecca Bingo - a major player in the UK bingo market - was part of the same division as us, and the Mecca machine department was based alongside us in Burton. As a result we have good background knowledge of the bingo market and the types of equipment those in the sector operate.A growing percentage of our business is derived from the bingo sector, and this is down to good product from our suppliers and the bingo sector continually looking to invest in their product offering to ensure the bingo player gets the very best machine offering. Over the years the bingo sector has

realised that the machine offering is a key profit driver and stakeholders have invested in machine teams to ensure they are operating the best equipment and the offering is properly marketed to the player base to ensure player awareness. It’s quite simple get the people through the doors get the players to play, reinvest in new equipment to keep the offer fresh and appealing. The reinvestment drives machine sales,which encourages manufacturers to apportion research and development resource to develop bingo equipment. The bingo sector has and continues to work extremely hard at making its offering appealing to both sexes and across the age spectrum. We have seen bingo over the years transformed from a game that was

played by ladies of a certain age in old converted cinemas to a product that has mass appeal, played in state of the art facilities, with a wide range of food and drink offerings, entertainment and other events to compliment the main game of bingo and broaden the experience. The machine offering also has changed remarkably, with the bingo environment being one of the first to embrace digital product to go alongside traditional reel based machines and the bingo world probably offers the most diverse product offering of any of the bricks and mortar gaming environments.The entire bingo experience is extremely well marketed and there is a constant drive to encourage new participants and encourage repeat visits from its existing members. If this desire to succeed continues you can only see forward progress for the bingo sector.”

“

In overall terms the market continues to face some tough trading challenges. It’s no secret that mainstream commercial bingo has been impacted by a number of elements.The smoking ban back in July 2007, a tough economic trading climate and more recently changes to taxation in the form of MGD has, for a number of operators, further increased the costs of delivery to consumer. The other key point of note relates to the ‘core’ bingo consumer, whilst the government’s austerity measures are starting to show some positive signs from a wider economic perspective, I and others believe they have adversely affected the traditional‘core’bingo players rather disproportionally. The National Game is not immune from the trading pressures bingo gener-

BINGO OPERATIONS

Major bingo operator co Leading UK operator Gala Bingo continues to invest in its venues in an effort to broaden its brand appeal and increase footfall. ollowing on from the successful relaunch of its Metro Centre club in FGateshead last year, Gala Bingo invested

to attract a younger, modern day audience to play alongside Gala’s traditional customers who have grown up with bingo. The new venues are fully equipped for £3m in two of its most popular venues in all types of visitors, with innovative the South East of England. After several months of redevelopment, “shush free” lounges, whereby the the newly refurbished Stratford club offi- modern day bingo player can enjoy the cially launched in September last year, fol- game without having to keep the noise lowed by the official re-launch of the down; a separate main hall with soundproof glass for the more traditional player; Feltham club later that month. The investment is aimed at changing the a central hub that serves a newly devised perception of bingo by broadening the food menu; a vibrant arcade full of the brand’s appeal through the addition of latest slot machines and after-hours bingo new zones and much improved facilities entertainment, together with low-stake

Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

2340-p10-15-Essential:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

16:03

Page 4

B 2 B

‘The National Game is an extremely powerful brand’

ally faces, and therefore its fortunes are naturally linked to the health and vitality of the sector.The National Game is an extremely powerful brand that offers consumers an industry wide game and the ability for the bingo sector to unify under a headline proposition. Research suggests and I believe that the NBGA would support the need for the National Game to further develop.Against this backdrop,NRM has been working very closely with the NBGA in the development and deployment of a new technology platform to support a planned launch of a new National Game in the first quarter of 2014. The National Game offers a true industry headline game and the ability for all clubs to offer a powerful and trusted game brand that consumers clearly love to play. Having good numbers of participating clubs also creates improved liquidity pools and the capability to deliver some fantastic prize values.With the new National Game

platform and game variants there are some really exciting opportunities around the corner. I think it’s fair to say that for a number of years the National Game has relied on the loyal consumer following it has had rather than the development of the game and its delivery. The changes last year within NRM and NBGA, I believe, have been a real catalyst for change. Miles Baron, the CEO of the Bingo Association and NBGA, has delivered a positive plan of future development and the launch of a new National Game next year is a clear testimony of this.To support the delivery of the new game NRM has already delivered and completed the roll out of the new National Game platform, this in itself offers improved operational delivery and a scalable technology base from which to drive further game innovation. Having the ability to robustly link any number of venues brings distinct advantages in the prize money and game liquidity that can be delivered to consumers. Other benefits include an ability to leverage a common platform that should drive cost savings and an ability to deploy new initiatives very quickly. The important factor here as with any industry platform is the ability for open interfaces that allow content developers to deliver exciting

and innovative content across multiple locations. NRM continues to re-enforce its position as market leaders in the bingo,adult gaming centre and snooker hall sectors, through the delivery of some cutting-edge content, technology and platform innovations.A key example of this is the Bingo Express platform that is situated in over 110 connected locations.Additionally, and as mentioned earlier, the company working closely with the NBGA has successfully deployed a new 3G platform to support the delivery of the new National Game. Content has and will also continue to be an important area of innovation and I think there will be some interesting developments in this area.

NRM AND NATIONAL GAME MANAGEMENT • Britain’s largest computer controlled national bingo game • Regularly connects over 500 gaming establishments • Brings over 3m customers together each week • Over £1m in prize money controlled and managed each week • Seamless behind the scenes network administration and application support • Technical and end user help desk support

or continue to invest casino games; and a relaxed outdoor terrace that provides a pleasant environment for smokers. Commenting on the new venues,Simon Wykes, managing director of Gala Bingo, said: “Our new and greatly improved layout offers the best for both our traditional members and those looking for a livelier environment where they can have fun with friends and family. “We chose to continue our revamp with Stratford as it is one business in the area that has a guaranteed legacy post the Olympics and Feltham as it has been an essential part of so many bingo lovers lives for so long. Players travel for miles to enjoy its already fabulous facilities and atmosphere.” Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

2340-p10-15-Essential:Coinslot NEW

B 2 B

29/10/13

15:33

Page 5

Essential Guide to ... Bingo Sector Products PRODUCT TRENDS

NRM GROUP

Welcoming the next generation of gaming innovations

‘Bingo in a box’

A range of gaming categories are coming into their own in bingo venues across the UK.

Growing technology business NRM Group continues to reinforce its position as market leaders in the bingo and adult gaming centre (AGC) sectors, through the delivery of cuttingedge content, technology and platform innovations.

LMS Sales remains a key supplier to the bingo sector. According to key account manager Chris Widdowson, the company has a range of product that is doing particularly well in bingo venues across the country. “In terms of B3 we have the Astra Big Party and Project Coin’s Casino King compendiums,” Widdowson said.“Both platforms incorporate numerous themes and styles of games, ranging from simple game formats through to more elaborate feature-based games. “In Cat C and D our two key products at the moment for bingo are the Party Time Classic from Astra and the Gold Run three-player arena from Empire Games. Both are multi players, which work extremely well within the bingo

Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

market where there is prominent social feel to the product mix. Both Astra and Empire can demonstrate a tremendous track record of success within the bingo Cat C sector,and this looks to continue into 2014 with the exciting new ranges they have in development.” According to Widdowson, Supernova Games’ Skill Ball Zingy SWP has performed extremely well in the bingo market due to its simple play structure that complements bingo clubs’ gaming machine offering by attracting a different player base. “One other product that was greatly received by the bingo market was the Vortex, which was introduced into our portfolio ear- tives has been used as a major draw within the lier this year,” he said.“The product which has clubs and promoted through their social media been linked in through prize draw-style initia- sites to develop a special event for members.” When asked why he thought concepts such as community gaming have been so readily embraced by bingo customers,Widdowson said: “The bingo club is a very social environment, with a significant number of the members making regular weekly visits.As a result they get to know the other members and the community spirit develops. “Bingo, by its very nature, is a ‘community’ game with all the players knowing that the more people playing each game, the more the jackpot increases - and even if they do not win the jackpot the chance is they know the person that has won. Community gaming is really an extension of this, with members playing together for the chance of winning.You see them in the clubs going to the machines with their friends to participate in the community games, and it is great to see the buzz when the community feature kicks in and everyone participates in the“winning feeling”. Discussing the possible impact of the Category C prize uplift next year, Martin Austin, new account manager for RLMS, said:“Our manufacturer partners are well into the development programme of new Cat C games to embrace the £100 jackpot.We have seen some extremely exciting new ideas and we can’t wait to get them to market.I am sure the introduction of £100 is another fantastic opportunity for the clubs marketing departments to kick into overdrive and drive footfall to the club and to the machine areas.” Austin added:“I am sure the clubs will be offering a range of promotional events such as cash match and machine tournaments to introduce the new machines and jackpots to the players and get them to engage with the games.If the games designers have got it right then the players will determine what impact the £100 Cat C has on the bingo machine landscape. The more popular the games, the quicker we will see further investment from the club owners into their Cat C offering.”

RM Group, the East Yorkshirebased systems and technology N provider, whose clients include the UK’s leading bingo and AGC operators, continues to lead the way with a number of innovative bingo solutions. Bingo Express is a true ‘bingo in a box’ that is now installed in well over 100 locations. NRM has been working very closely with its customers to ensure bingo remains a core part of an evolving market sector. Earlier in 2013 the company introduced both self-serve and bar top options, allowing its customers to provide players with all the normal microbingo features, including self-serve and pay-out functionality, but with the added benefits of a lower capital outlay. Andrew Ludlow, managing director of NRM, said: “These additional terminal options for Bingo Express have really fortified its lofty position in 2013 as the leading ticket on demand bingo game solution on the market. “Bingo Express became the first ever server-based bingo product to hit the high street when NRM launched it in 2011 and has since proven to be a positive revenue generator which has paid out over £2m in prizes.” Ludlow added: “As we move towards the end of 2013 its fair to say bingo has and will continue to face trading challenges. From an NRM perspective, we won’t sit still, but will continue to look for new ways of driving income whilst delivering greater levels of consumer experience which we believe will assist the evolution of the UK bingo and AGC markets.”

2340-p15-analysis.ps:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

16:29

Page 1

Sponsored by

Analysis

NOVOMATIC LEADS, OTHERS FOLLOW

CATEGORYC (£1/£70 Max.)

CATEGORYB3 (£1/£500 Max.)

FILMCHARTS

Single site

AGCs

UK Box Office Chart

This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer

This Last Week Week Name

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

DOND The Big One BFG Monster Money QPS DOND Lucky Streak BFG DOND Golden Game BFG DOND Double Chance BFG Monopoly Reel Estate BFG Snow White and the Seven Tenners REF Lady Luck Trail of Riches REF Karate Quid QPS DOND Take a Chance BFG

Taken from a representative number of sites around the UK Supplied by national operator

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

King of Slots Blueprint TS22 Project Magic Lotto Ultra Novomatic Magic Lotto 2 Novomatic Triple 8 Barcrest Rainbow Riches Community Cash Barcrest Triple 7 Barcrest Mega Bars Big Hit Project Casino Star Reflex Rumple Wild Spins Astra

MUSICCHARTS

FEC - family

This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 2 3 4 5 -

Magic Games 3 (s/d) Novomatic X3000 Multigame Amatic Magic Games 3 Novomatic World of Poker Project Triple 7 (GP3) SG Gaming King Cash Astra Triple 7 (GP2) SG Gaming Find the Lady 2 Card Project Encore T7 (GP2) SG Gaming Bullion Bars Astra

Based on data from a minimum of 10 locations. Supplied by Praesepe

FEC - adult This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 8

Magic Games U/R Novomatic Rainbow Riches Party Barcrest Free Play 70 Project Pure Gold Astra Party Games (4 Player) Astra Find The Lady Project Find The Lady £70 Project Chase The Ace Project Party Time Arena (4 Player) Astra Win Wall Astra

Based on data from four sites Amusement Equipment Co Ltd

Turbo Captain Phillips Escape Plan Prisoners Sunshine on Leith Blue Jasmine Filth Rush Boss Le Week-End

Based on data supplied by a representative number of UK sites Supplied by RLMS Sales

CATEGORYD (10p/£5 Max.) AGCs

TURBO

1 2 3 4 5 7

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 -

UK Jukebox Chart http://www.sound net.net/ www.soundnet.net

Party Time Classic(3 Player) Astra Party Games (4 Player) Astra Rainbow Riches (3 Player) Empire Gold Rush Stampede (4Player) Barcrest Adders And Ladders (4 Player) Vivid Chase The Ace Project Golden Games ( 3 Player) Mazooma Party Time Arena (4 Player) Astra Party Time (3 Player) Astra Rock N Roll Empire

3 1 4 2 5 6 7 8 9 10

Counting Stars OneRepublic Wake Me Up Avicii Roar Katy Perry Talk Dirty Jason Derulo feat. 2 Chainz Burn Ellie Goulding Blurred Lines Robin Thicke feat. TI & Pharell Let Her Go Passenger You Make Me Avicii Wrecking Ball Miley Cyrus Love! Me Again John Newman

This Last WeekWeek Name

KATY PERRY: PRISM

This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Albums

Members clubs 1 2 3 4 5

This Last

Based on data supplied by Soundnet

Based on data from four sites Amusement Equipment Co Ltd

CATEGORYB4 (£1/£250 Max)

Highest Earning Tracks on Sound Leisure jukeboxes

Jackpot Island Reflex Street Casino Storm Happy Hour BFG Raiders of the Lost Tenners Reflex Cops & Robbers Gold BFG

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 6 9 5 11 4

Prism Katy Perry Moon Landing James Blunt Tribute John Newman AM Arctic Monkeys Love In Portofino Andrea Bocelli All The Little Lights Passenger The Message Andrea Begley Perhaps Love Jonathan & Charlotte If You Wait London Grammar Closer To The Truth Cher

Downloads This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer

Based on data from representative sites. Supplied by sector professional

LORDE: ROYALS

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 5 2 4 9 12

Royals Lorde You’re Nobody ‘Til Somebody Loves You James Arthur Counting Stars Onerepublic Roar Katy Perry Booyah Showtek/We Are Loud/Wilson Wrecking Ball Miley Cyrus Bonfire Heart James Blunt Beautiful Life Union J Afterglow Wilkinson Hold On We’re Going Home IDraft ft AMajid Jordan Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

B 2 B

2340-p16-17-Listings:Coinslot NEW

B 2 B

29/10/13

13:32

Page 1

Listings

MARKETPLACE

B2B Amusements

B2B Arcade Games

Ticket House Crane

Registration now open for ICE

CALL NOW

01843 866464

Harry Levy Amusement Contractor Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1843 866464 | Fax: +44 (0)1843 860144 Email: sales@harry-levy-amusements.com | Web: www.harry-levy-amusement.com

JNC SALES

“Let’s talk about it” Width 90cm Height 1.75m to 2.3m

Vast ranges of AWPs, SWPs, Drivers, Simulators, Sit-downs and amusement equipment www.jnc-sales.co.uk sales@jnc-sales.co.uk Tel: 0117 9382552 Fax: 0117 9382218 Aftersales Tel: 0117 9382225

Scan & Spin option with Barcode activation and Voucher printer. • Change the Artwork • Change the Program • Gives you a brand new Game

Ticket registration has opened for ICE Totally Gaming 2014, which is being held from 4-6th February at ExCeL London. Officially the world’s largest business-to-business gaming event, admission is free for industry professionals.

The acquisition of WMS is tra for Scientific Games as it cre company in the gaming indu vative content, world-class te an expansive geographical fo supply an extensiv products and serv tomers throughou

ALLEN WEIL, CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECU COMMENTS ON THE GROUP’S RECENT AC

For Video Demonstration scan here

TRADE SHOWS For more information & sales contact TEL: 0191 4187158 WEB: www.playtronics-solutions.co.uk EMAIL: aimi.morgan@playprint.co.uk

gspencer@namco.co.uk

www.namco.co.uk

B2B Carpets & Flooring

We buy and sell all gaming equipment with over 400 units in stock - From Pool-tables to Fruit machines we have it all.

www.antrimcarpets.com

For the best prices please call us today

Tel: 01795 844 169

Email: Stuart@starleisure.biz

B2B Arcade Crane Services

info@antrimcarpets.com

B2B Change Machines www.thewon.co.uk

EAG announces partnership with Event Express

experienced in the hotel reservations sector and offers a very personal service, in fact they negotiate prices for individual reservations to ensure that best value, availability and location are all achieved. Another important plus is that they will not require up-front payment or deposits.” EAG International Expo 2014 will be sharing London ExCel with another show, putting increased strain on the hotels on and around the campus. Event Express has researched a number of alternatives, including the Tower Hill area, where they have negotiated some very competitive prices. Show organisers recommend that anyone who has not already secured a hotel should contact Event Express to book their rooms as soon as possible, even if they’re unsure about final numbers as it’s easier to subtract rooms than to add them at a later date and potentially at a higher price.

APPOINTMENTS

growth of the company’s digital presence, across the UK pub, AGC and bingo sectors. Prior to joining Blueprint, Barff was commercial director of Machine Insite.

iven the hectic nature of the EAG International, few would dispute the importance of securing a comfortable and convenient base for the duration of the show from January 21-23. Accommodation is an important part of the show experience, not to mention the budget, and is best arranged well in advance. To this end, EAG International has teamed up with Event Express, a specialist in all aspects of hotel accommodation for exhibitions and events. Organiser Karen Cooke explained: “So often, we try to secure the best hotel price by spending time on the internet reviewing all the available options. The problem is that there are literally thousands of sites and the lowest headline price may not be the best deal if, for example, payment is required in advance or charges are applied to change the booking at a later date. “The team at Event Express is hugely

B2B Bingo

BARFF JOINS BLUEPRINT GAMING

“Great range of Change Machines available” sales@leisure-electronics.co.uk www.leisure-electronics.co.uk Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

Tel: 020 8391 7700 Fax: 020 8391 7760 Email: sales@suzohapp.co.uk www.suzohapp.co.uk

imon Barff has been appointed MD of the machine division of Blueprint Gaming. He is responsible for the overall performance and strategic development of the machines division within Blueprint, including the on-going development and

RGT BRINGS IN NEW FUNDRAISING CHIEF he Responsible Gambling Trust appointed Alan Armstrong as its new Tdirector of fundraising. Armstrong, who

2340-p16-17-Listings:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

13:32

Page 2

MARKETPLACE

B2B Finance

WMS is transformational s as it creates a leading ming industry with innold-class technology and aphical footprint, able to n extensive range of s and services to cushroughout the world.

MAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF SCIENTIFIC GAMES, GROUP’S RECENT ACQUISITION OF WMS GAMING

Heatwave bolsters attractions The UK’s summer heatwave had a noticeable effect for hotels and attractions with a sizeable boost in tourism, according to Visit England. Statistics released by the tourist board showed that more than half of the country’s accommodation options and two thirds of visitor attraction witnessed an increase in visitor numbers from mid-July to the end of August.

has spent 30 years working in the British gambling industry first as a croupier, and then with Pleasurama, Mecca and more recently for Grosvenor Casinos and the Rank Group, replaces Karen Churches who stepped down in early September.

CHANGE MACHINES SUCCESSFUL ENADA FOR VNE espite being “much smaller than planned”, the Enada show that took D place in Rome on October 16-18 proved to be a success for Italian change machine manufacturer, VNE. “The new Compact Change is ideal for the bar market,” the company said. “This change machine has been adapted in a new secure slimline cabinet.”

JUKEBOX MY GENERATION usic Milestones is the latest generation in Sound Leisure’s longstandM ing and immensely popular Milestones in Music range of digital jukeboxes. “We would like to invite other customers to consider replacing some of their older jukeboxes with Music Milestones,” said Sound Leisure managing director Chris Black. “In order to make this proposition even more attractive we are offering this model at an amazingly low price of £1,645 which includes a £205 cashback from Soundnet.”

CHARITY

B2B Gaming Machines

Amusement and Gaming Equipment Finance with Rates from 3.1%

www.amgleisure.co.uk

Immediate Funds Available 98% Acceptance Rate

Tel: 0844 800 88 25 info@portmanassetfinance.co.uk www.portmanassetfinance.co.uk

B2B Football Tables

DAME KELLY HOLMES LEGACY TRUST THANKS GAMESTEC AND PARTNERS he charitable side of the UK coin-op sector was afforded a higher profile than Tnormal during a special event held this week to celebrate the efforts of a pioneering project that helps prepare young people for adult life. The Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust hosted a Regional Celebration at the University of Bedfordshire in Luton on October 22, with national machine operator Gamestec in attendance accompanied by representatives of pub companies Greene King and Punch Taverns. Gamestec supports the Trust with essential donations generated by its TabBOXX Instant Win Lottery product. Currently, out of every £1 staked on the pull-tab lottery game, 20p is given to charitable causes. As well as applauding the dedication and achievements of the youths involved in the Trust, the Luton event was used as a platform to publicly thank the fund-raising efforts of its charity partners. Trust chief executive Julie Whelan, addressing guests, extended her thanks to Gamestec for its contribution via the TabBOXX Instant Win Lottery. She commented: “Gamestec have managed to bring their partners Greene King and Punch Taverns along this evening and that is really good in terms of the way that we are working. Through them we are the beneficiary of a society lottery that is making a huge difference in terms of the work we are doing.”

www.rlms-sales.com sales@rlms-sales.com

www.lifestyle-lp.co.uk THE HIGHEST EARNING

B2B Insurance

POOL AIR HOCKEY FOOTBALL TABLES

T 024 7646 1234 F 024 7646 4433

&DOO RXU /HLVXUH 7HDP RQ

SALES@SAMLEISURE.CO.UK sales@samleisure.co.uk WWW.SAMLEISURE.CO.UK www.samleisure.co.uk

B2B Gaming Machines

B2B Juke Box Specialists

kim@arionmusic.co.uk

Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

B 2 B

MARKETPLACE

B2B Juke Box Specialists

SOUNDNET THE NO.1 MUSIC SERVICE YOU CAN DEPEND ON

Classified To advertise: Contact Kathryn Norris on 01204 396 397

Wanted

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR JUKEBOXES CALL US NOW ON 020 7644 8888 www.soundnet.net

B2B Pool Tables & Accessories

Distributor of snooker and pool accessories and manufacturers of genuine Superleague tables and spares.

01952 586226 B2B Soft Toys & Redemption Order your stock in time for the

festive season www.whitehouseleisure.co.uk

B2B Spares

USED POOL TABLES WANTED FOR EXPORT Tel: (00 353) 719644043

WANTED

CLUB MACHINES

www.cromptons-spares.co.uk For Spares, Refurbishments, Repairs and Special Offers call Matt or Terri on 01843 593335 For FREE technical support call Steve or Hugh on: 01843 593353 Email: spares@cromptons.com Fax: 01843 588043

&DOO 'HEELH +RXJK RQ

(UNDER 4 YEARS OLD)

ZZZ FKDWWHUWRQV FRP

Please call:

01132 040885 For Sale

PC TOWER REPAIRS BARCREST ASTRA PARAGON ETC.

Call Leeds Leisure on 01132 040885

For Sale

Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. SRA No 44948. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority

PINBALL HEAVEN LTD

PARTS/REPAIRS/ACCESORIES & SERVICE MACHINES BOUGHT & SOLD LARGE STOCK OF PINBALL PARTS ALWAYS AVAILABLE

TEL 01772 816677 EMAIL SALES@PINBALL.CO.UK

New & Used Machine Prices T8 VEGAS PARTY PERFORMA 22 KING OF SLOTS SLANT CASINO KING TS22 KING OF SLOTS VISION BIG PARTY 500 A-SERVE CASINO KING SLANT MEGA GAMES SLANT JACKPOT KING RUMPLE WILDSPINS

ÂŁ7,995 ÂŁ7,995 ÂŁ7,795 ÂŁ7,495 ÂŁ6,995 ÂŁ6,995 ÂŁ5,495 ÂŁ3,995 ÂŁ1,495 ÂŁ1,495

Cranes E CLAW 900 TWIN E CLAW COSMIC E CLAW 900 SINGLE

ÂŁ8,995 ÂŁ4,995 ÂŁ4,495

Multiplayer Gaming RAINBOW PARTY T7 3 PLY ÂŁ14,495 BULLION BARS 3 PLY COM ÂŁ9,995 CRAIC IN FUN 3 PLY ÂŁ8,495 PARTY TIME CLASSIC ÂŁ8,495 BANK RAID 3 PLY ÂŁ7,495

Pushers TICKETS | LCD KITS | CONSUMABLES TICKET EATERS | CHANGE MACHINES

/LFHQVLQJ IRU \RXU EXVLQHVV DW SULFHV \RX FDQ DIIRUG

GOOD PRICES PAID

Cat B3 ÂŁ2 Stake

*The only OfďŹ cial Cromptons Machines Spares supplier*

SWEET FALLS COIN/TKT ÂŁ18,495 SHOOT TO WIN ÂŁ8,995 BIG PRIZE WINNER ÂŁ5,995

Redemption

RAINBOW RACING ÂŁ19,995 CONNECT 4 ÂŁ11,795 SPIN OUT ÂŁ9,995 RAINBOW SHOOT TO WIN ÂŁ8,995 HARPOON LAGOON ÂŁ7,995 TEMPLE RUN ÂŁ6,995 ROLLER COASTER ROLL ÂŁ6,995 DOODLE JUMP ÂŁ6,495 MONSTER DROP SINGLE ÂŁ6,495 MILK JUG TOSS ÂŁ5,995 KLOBBER THE ROBBER ÂŁ2,995 PIG OUT ÂŁ2,495 KNOCKOUT PUNCH ÂŁ1,995 LITTLE SPEEDY ÂŁ1,995 GALACTIX ÂŁ1,995 MONKEY MANIA ÂŁ1,495 FOR A FEW TICKETS MORE ÂŁ1,250

THIS WEEKS STAR BUY INTERMATIC CANDY FLOSS ONLY

ÂŁ2,995 +VAT

All prices subject to VAT and Carriage

gaming...and so much more!

VDOHV#FURZQGLUHFW FR XN

WWW.SEGATOTALSOLUTIONS.COM www.segatotalsolutions.com

TEL: 0208 391 8060

Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

18 19 19 20 20 20

For Sale

LARGE OR SMALL

Telephone

Crown Direct JNC Sales Leeds Leisure Genesis Games Marsh & Company Recruitment

VDOHV#GHLWKOHLVXUH FRP

FOR SALE RANGE OF OBSOLETE DECALS AND KITS AVAILABLE FOR ÂŁ5/ÂŁ35/ÂŁ70 JACKPOTS. Please call:

01132 040885 FOR SALE

NBA HOOPS COMPLETE & WORKING

ÂŁ700 FULLY WORKSHOPPED

ÂŁ995 3 LINKED ÂŁ2495

01179382552 FOR SALE COMESTERO DOUBLE CHANGE NOTE RECYCLER NOTE-COIN &COIN-NOTE

ÂŁ995

01179382552 FOR SALE ALL 2P AND 10P PUSHERS VERY CHEAP! BUY THEM AS IS COMPLETE & WORKING (NON WORKSHOPPED) FULLY WORKSHOPPED

01179382552

JNC SALES AVAILABLE

IN BLACK OR WHITE

DOND RED HOT ...................£995 DOND DESERT ISLAND DEAL..£850 DOND RED MIST ..................£695 DOND BANKERS BONUS ..... £595 TIOLI SAFE CRACKER ......... £595

UNIT 1, CCT BUILDINGS, GREENSPLOTT ROAD, CHITTENING TRADING ESTATE, AVONMOUTH, BRISTOL. BS11 0YB 777° - -° "°1 ÊUÊ- -J - -° "°1

TEL: 0117 9382552 AFTERSALES TEL: 0117 9382225

BUY 3 USED REDEMPTION

GET THE CHEAPEST HALF PRICE

DOND POWER OF 5 ............. £395 DOND WALK OF WEALTH .... £395 MONOPOLY HERE AND NOW ..£395 DOND WHATS IN YOUR BOX.. £345 MONOPOLY ROAD TO RICHES.. £345

STAR WARS DEATH STAR ASSAULT ...£595 RAINBOW DUBLIN YER MONEY...£595 RAINBOW RICHES REELS OF GOLD .. £495 DEVIL OF A DEAL ................ £495 HOT HOT HOT...................... £495 RAINBOW KING .................£2995 RUMPEL WILDSPINS .........£2495 GAMBLE KING ....................£1995 KING POTS .........................£1795 JACKPOT 500 £2 STAKE ..£1495

WAS £2995

SPACE RAIDERS ...................£195 VORTEX ................................£195 SHOW ME MUMMY ...............£195 OPEN THE BOX.....................£195 CRAZY CASH POINT .............£195 CAN YOU DIG IT ...................£195

NOTE RECYCLER

Y LIMITED AVAILABILIT

SOLID GOLD VIDEO £70.....£1595 WORLD OF GAMES ..............£995 CHAMELEON £35 ................ £795 CARIBBEAN CRUISE............£695 PARTY TIME PLAYER .......... £595

EMPIRE JUICY FRUITS......£5995 LOCOMOTION 3PLY ..........£5500 PARTY TIME ARENA 4PLY..£1995

FOR FULL STOCK LIST OF VIDEO, REDEMPTION, PUSHERS, DANCE MACHINES, KIDDIE RIDES, BASKETBALL, BOXERS, CRANES, PINTABLES AND ALL FRUITS - PLEASE CONTACT 01179 382552

Leeds Leisure Ltd NEW TELEPHONE NUMBER - 01132 040885

CLUB MACHINES JACKPOT ISLAND (NEW) RAIDERS OF THE LOST TENNERS (NEW) FLAMING SIXES SNAKES AND LADDERS CLUEDO

POA POA £295 £175 £175

CASINO LOW TECH RANDOM GOLD DOUBLE UP £70 MEGA JACKPOTS CASINO DOND (VIDEO) CLASSIC RED BAR CASINO WHEEL OR WEALTH FANTASTIC 5 (VIDEO) WIN CAN ALLEY CASINO RED HOT X CASINO BAR X THE STREAK

£495 £395 £350 £295 £295 £250 £250 £245 £245 £195

VIDEOS SUPERBIKES TWIN £4,995 R TUNED TWIN £4,495 FAST & FURIOUS TWIN £2,995 TIME CRISIS 3 DELUXE £1,695 TIME CRISIS 3 STANDARD £1,495 CHASE HQ 2 SSD £1,195 BATTLEGEAR 4 SSD £995 UPRIGHT ARCADE CLASSICS (NEW) £995 TABLE TOP ARCADE CLASSIC (NEW) £895 GLOBAL ARCADE CLASSIC UPRIGHT (USED) £595

DOND EAST & WEST WING

£895

CROWN JEWELS

£595

DOND COPS & ROBBERS

£845

DUBLIN YOUR MONEY

£450

Tim Stanhope, Keith Parker or John Hood Tel: 01132 040885 Fax: 01132 560180 John mobile: 07766 247876 Email: leedsleisure@aol.com Unit 59/62L, Springfield Commercial Centre, Bagley Lane, Farsley, LEEDS LS28 5LY

777 ,%%$3,%)352% #/ 5+

CHANGE MACHINES THOMAS 3004 (ARDAC ELITE) THOMAS 3004 (TAIKO) £70 AWPS CASH ENCOUNTERS (NEW) GALLOPING JACKPOT (NEW) DOND EAST & WEST WING DOND SPANK THE BANKER DOND COPS & ROBBERS MONOPOLY GOLD DOND RED MIST CROWN JEWELS TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT SAFE CRACKER DOND LIVE THE DREAM DOND PLAY THE GAME STAR WARS DEATH ASSAULT DOND DUBLIN YOUR MONEY MURPHY’S MILLIONS HOT HOT HOT TAKE IT OR LEAVE CRAZY TRAIL TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT PACMAN POWER UP AIR HOCKEY / NOVELTY AIRBOY XTREME MINI CRAZY SQUASH WALL HOCKEY (NEW) WINNING STREAK TICKET PLATINUM HEIGHTS TICKET GARLANDO SPEEDY 7FT

£1,995 £1,795 POA POA £895 £845 £845 £795 £695 £595 £595 £595 £495 £450 £450 £345 £250 £245 £225 £195 £1,495 £1,395 £1,295 £1,295 £795

0,%!3% #!,, 4)- /2 +%)4( /. /2 */(. /. s 6)3)4 /52 7%"3)4% 777 ,%%$3,%)352% #/ 5+ 7% (!6% -/6%$ 4/ .%7 02%-)3%3 s 5.)4 , 302).'&)%,$ #/--%2#)!, #%.42% "!',%9 ,!.% &!23,%9 ,%%$3 ,3 ,9 Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

B 2 B

B 2 B We recognise the Amusement Arcade Industry has specific Insurance requirements & our 20 years of dealing with the Leisure sector provides us with the ability to offer comprehensive insurance solutions & competitive rates.

B3 MULTI GAME PLATFORM WITH MULTI STAKE £0.50 £1.00 £2.00

&OLHQW 7HVWLPRQLDOV VHH RXU ZHEVLWH

ZZZ PDUVKFRPSDQ\ FR XN

Subject to normal underwriting criteria Marsh & Company Insurance Brokers Authorised & Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

&DOO RXU /HLVXUH 7HDP RQ

CONTACT GENESIS GAMES LTD 2 PHOENIX BUSINESS CENTRE, HIGHAM ROAD CHESHAM BUCKS. HP5 2AJ T:01494 773030 F:01494 772323 www.genesisgames.net email: sales@genesisgames.net

Recruitment

Palatial Leisure Limited are appointing a

Senior Machine Technician/Manager based at The London Palace Bingo Club to oversee and maintain their entire machine operation. This will include travel and working in all our sites. In addition we are appointing 1 Full and 2 Part Time Fruit Machine Technicians to work in The London palace only. We operate the largest number of handheld computers in any bingo club over, 600 in fact and some 150 computer based fruit machines. These are in use at all times throughout the day, so we are looking for people who are not just great with machines but great with people too, and always ready to help customers regardless of what the problem might be. We are a family based business where we strive to maintain a high level of welcome and service, whilst at the same time make everyone have a great time. We are looking for energetic people with personality, drive and great customer skills and who behave in a mature and caring way, who are kind and would put yourself out for anyone and is a hard worker, who works to perfection and if you feel you are one of these, then this is something for you. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE APPLYING. The jobs will require weekend and evening working as we are in leisure industry, and Full Time is based on an approximate 40 hour week. In ﬁrst instance please forward your CV to: Email: vacancies@thepalaces.com

Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

2340-p21-Surreal soccer:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

13:16

Page 1

Sponsored by

B 2 B

The transfer window is now open and the updated player list is available on request Please email your changes to mlawton@gbmedia.eu Current Team Position Name

Manager Name

KEEPLAYERS

Peter Holmes

ABOVE STANDARDS

Lee Clarke

COSMIC FIRST 11

Terry Farr

JACKSONS JACKPOT XI

Gareth Cammack

AMG FIRST 11

Terry Farr

SHELL'S ELEVEN

Michelle Martin

JAMIES SHOPPERS 11

Jamie Lucky

HAMMERTIME

Brian Wright

KEEDAY RESERVES

LLL WANDERERS

COMRIEAUTOMATICS

BOWLERS BOYZ

Total Points

Current Team Position Name

Manager Name

437

GILLSGILLSGILLS

413

THE TEAM THAT WIN

412

BAYERN OTHER STRIKER

406

JABRO LIONS

412

11 UNDER PAR

Ross Evans

398

ANGRY BALLS

Laurie Carpenter

398

CHEEKY MONKEYS

Matty Sirett

397

EASY MONEY

Steve Barber

352

Peter Holmes

392

HOLTY'S HOTSPOTS

Tony Holt

350

Jake Parker

390

NES UNITED

Chris Bell

349

Jack Craddock

388

JJ'S SHOPPERS 11

JJ Lucky

348

Andy Bowler

Weekly Points

386

BEADLES 2

Weekly Points

Total Points

Current Team Position Name

Colin Smith

360

I WANT DIRTY KNEES 2

Jorzoe-FTM

309

Hugo Illingworth

360

SHOWBOAT ALLSTARS

Ray Harris

309

David Lees

356

SCUM ON THE RUN

Nathan Holmes

308

Tony Brookes

356

AMS VXR GJ

Roger Jarrett

308

355

THE REAL DEAL

Dave Columbine

303

355

HOT CHIPS

C Edenborough

302

354

RICK'S BOYZ

Andy Bowler

302

WARWICKS WINNERS

Warwick Tunnicliffe

301

DIBBS ELEVEN

Tracey Dibben

300

EE BAH GUM

Simon Shaw

299

ABSOLUTE REAMSTERS

Alex Lee

298

JO'S ASSETS

Joanne Crooks

298

Peter Hemmings

346

Manager Name

Weekly Points

Total Points

EVAN TENNER BACK NOW

Stuart Heyden

385

SOUTH OF THE QUEENS

David Lees

344

KEEDAYS FINEST

Peter Holmes

385

CAREFREE ALDON

Glyn Petrie

344

BIG PRIZE WINNERS

Harry Leaveme

297

THE PERFECT TEAM

Tom Clarke

383

RANGERS RETURN 1

Ashley Temple

341

AK BABES

Andy Water

295

JOHN WARK'S MILKMEN

Stu & Stoo

383

CLUB TROPICANA

Warren Roffey

338

FERGIES FINEST

Kevin Temple

295

MICK McCARTHY'S MISFITS

Stoo Evans

383

THE ELDORADO TRACTOR BOYS

Stoo Evans

335

JOHNNYS SHOPPERS 11

John Mitchell

294

CAREFREE WEEMAN

Glyn Petrie

381

DIDCOT GOALBUSTERS

John Carpenter

334

LLL BELLES

Amelia Stanhope

294

CAREFREE BAZZA

Glyn Petrie

381

BEACON BATTLERS

Harry Illingworth

333

RANGERS RETURN 2

Ashley Temple

293

FC CLACTON UNDER 10's

Stuart Heyden

380

LLL ACCIES

John Hood

332

BEADLES 1

Peter Hemmings

290

MUCKING FUDDLERS

Chris Skelly

380

LLL CITY

Keith Parker

331

PARAGON ACADEMICALS

Nick Hardy

284

AMG LEISURE

Carl Bearman

379

STEVIE G LUCKY 11

Shoppers Luck

331

TOWER POWER

Tony O'Brien

284

IFUN@SUNDANCERS

Shaney Pashley

379

AMS YID ARMY

Jason Jarrett

329

HOLIDAY MONEY

Darrell Webb

281

JABRO BOYS

Tony Brookes

376

DYNAMO KEBAB

David Lees

328

DONKEY LASHERS

Andy Williamson

275

JACKSONS SUPER BLUES

Phillip Nelson

376

BRAMBLEBOYZ123

Andy Bowler

328

KEEDAY LEGENDS

Peter Holmes

375

ESSEX BOYS 1

Steve Hawkins

322

LAC DE GURSON

Bill Knowles

309

MOTHYS MARVELS

Scott Yarham

374

ABSOLUTE RANKSTERS

Alex Lee

320

BUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE

Harry Leaveme

269

SUSHI SLIPPERS

Derek Lewis

373

DELAYZIGITS

Dave Delay

319

ESSEX'S FINEST

Dave Clarke

260

COSMIC SECOND 11

Terry Farr

373

RAYLEIGHS REJECTS

Jody Buckley

318

DO IT THEE SEN LAD

Simon Shaw

260

DANS DESTROYERS

Daniel Barber

371

CASHBOX KINGS

James Illingworth

318

UPHILL SKIERS

Bill Knowles

253

AMG OOOOSSSHHH

Ian Pawson

371

ESSEX BOYS 2

Steve Hawkins

317

M.O.T

Bill Knowles

252

Warwick Tunnicliffe

250

LE COINSPINNERS

Lee H

368

BURSNELL'S BULLETS

Jo Bursnell

315

100 WARWICKS ELEVEN

LLL UNITED

Tim Stanhope

368

BEST SELECTION

John Jennings

314

101 COINSPINNERTRONS

Coopertron

245

SHERWIN A TEAM

Mark Sherwin

367

S.A.S FC

David Holmes

311

102 SEE THE AT' TOP

Simon Shaw

241

ALL THIS AND MORE

Gary Newman

363

AINT GOT A KALOU

Stuart Heyden

309

103 2 THE TOP

Reece Newman

235

Coinslot NOVEMBER 1 - NOVEMBER 7, 2013

2340-p22-23-Comment:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

13:20

Page 1

Coinslot November 1 - November 7, 2013

Comment Better get used to these apps

“

Apps the way to do it! alex lee comment hile competition largely from tablets, iPhones and Blackberries these days - could be seen as a threat to the coin-op sector, the competitive element inherent in all video games gives them a strength that many of the other branches of venuebased amusements could never hope to have. Furthermore, by repurposing popular apps, PS3 or X-Box 360 incarnations, the latest video games bring with them a massive captive audience that is already familiar with the gameplay concept. Additionally, twin-seater race games, peer versus peer sports simulations and two-player shoot’em-ups are an established menu item of the FEC staple diet these days,the obvious benefit from an operational point of view being that twice the amount of cash goes into the cashbox each time a game is played. Since those halcyon days in the 1980s when the wheelbarrow sector was running out of titanium as it buckled under the weight of those monster ten pence pieces, arcades and FECs have evolved into hightech, redemption ticket-led venues with video games part and parcel of it all. Moreover, the positives of video games from an operational point of view are

many and varied. As both video games and simulators do not have cash payouts they are free of MGD and equally as importantly aren’t restricted to positioning in ‘gaming’ environments.Video games can just as easily often find a home in bowling alleys, leisure centres and cinema complexes - even, dare I say it,pubs.Let’s face it,beyond licensing issues, there’s no reason why any popular touchscreen interface app can’t be imaginatively ported onto an SWP machine. Coin-op video games are one of a rare breed of machines that can pit up to four players against each other in the same game simultaneously and in realtime without making graphical or gameplay compromises. They’re not restricted to over-18s, they demand repeat play and they appeal to the competitive spirit in everyone. In fact, one could reasonably argue that they are an essential amusement attraction. Just a thought, obviously.As I said in an earlier column, it’s all well and good coming up with a cunning twist on an AWP theme, but our new audience has grown up with apps - so why not give them more of what they’re used to and reap the rewards ourselves?

Online gaming ‘lacking in innova

The recent EiG in Ba while closer to home Small Business R

alex lee media watch gambling industry is not seen as a trend setTtinghetypically industry, and most companies operate an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” strategy, however there are finally signs that this attitude may be changing, as consumer demand and increasing competition drive change in the traditional industry, according to the gamasutra.com website. For years the industry has been working with a false sense of security, fostered by the huge amounts of revenue that, in the past, was easy to earn. But times are changing. Just look at US casino companies’ historic opposition to online gambling. Now nearly all the major US land-based companies are active proponents of online gambling. In Europe, the online industry appears to be reaching a similar volte-face regarding the need for technological innovation. At the EiG conference in Barcelona, a panel of executives from some of the biggest

players in the gambling industry admitted that innovation has been lacking. Mor Weiser, CEO of Playtech, told delegates: “We have seen some innovation on the product level - in my opinion it is not enough - but definitely on the CRM and customer journey aspects, we haven’t seen any innovation. Even from the existing player base, you can get more and provide them with a better experience (with innovation),” he added. Push notifications, single wallet, improved mobile products, streamlining improved login were all cited as areas that are still relatively foreign to gambling sites, despite being de facto elements of e-commerce and gaming offerings. As Magnus Silfverberg, CEO of Swedish-based gambling operator Betsson pointed out: “These things are common outside the gambling industry. It’s not really innovative if we send push messages.” In 2000, Betfair launched the first betting exchange. More

recently bookmakers have pioneered in-play betting, allowing gamblers to follow a sports game and place bets on individual events within the game in real time. Casino, poker and bingo, however, have remained largely unchanged since they were brought online. A panel of gambling CEOs admitting that innovation is needed is a sign that the times are changing for the online gambling industry. George Zenzefilis, managing director of Italian gambling firm Intralot said: “The next big invention will definitely come out of the mobile space. Interactive devices with touch are very different. This will change both the nature of the games and the way players interact with the games.” Mobile and social gaming were the main topics at the 2013 EiG conference. Companies are seeing triple digit growth in mobile gambling revenue. The industry seems to be realising what others have actively been saying for some

2340-p22-23-Comment:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

13:21

Page 2

Coinslot November 1 - November 7, 2013 23

“We have not found a way to broaden the appeal, but we haven’t given up on it. We have broadened our casino product most effectively, and we’ve been trying to do the same in Mecca.”

TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

Email: al@sjc.co.uk

IAN BURKE, RANK GROUP

“ ”

quote unquote

“The end of relief is a ticking time bomb which will cost Britain’s pubs £27 million, something they can ill afford. Business rates can be up to ten per cent of a pub’s costs. Let’s hope the Government builds on the excellent decision to cut beer duty, with more tax policies that help small businesses like pubs.” BRIGID SIMMONDS, BBPA

Jonathan Neame, the BBPA chairman and chief executive of Shepherd Neame, recently delivered a speech to the trade body’s annual dinner. The highlights can be read below.

“FSB’s figures show that of those applying for finance in Q3 2013, almost half were refused. Furthermore, the banks’ independent research shows how smaller and newer businesses are also more likely to be refused. We have worked with the BBA to put an advice sheet together to help businesses that want to apply for a loan. Ultimately, most firms that want to grow and invest will need to use some sort of finance, whether from a non-bank provider or the banks themselves.”

jonathan neame

JOHN ALLAN, FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES

politics

“The burden placed by business rates on many pubs is too high and action is needed to address this. An extension of small businesses rate relief would be a positive first step.” MIKE BENNER, CAMRA

nnovation’

cent EiG in Barcelona saw some controversial views being aired by high-profile executives, closer to home a number of trade bodies have united in their push for an extension to the Business Rate Relief deadline.

time; gambling companies are at a tipping point, where they will either innovate, or be left behind as new entrants come into the market. The online gambling industry is set for the biggest change it has ever seen, and despite the cooling effect that heavy regulation has, it is going to come quickly. Meanwhile, the secretary of a popular working men’s club has dismissed claims it is in financial trouble, according to the Northern Echo. In recent weeks, rumours have been circulating that Newton Aycliffe Working Men’s Club, known locally as the Big Club could close and that administrators had been called in. However, club secretary Mick Dooney has labelled the inaccurate reports ridiculous and has stressed there is “no chance” of the club going into administration. He said the popular venue, which has about 4,000 members, was very much open for business and would be

BBPA chairman believes pub sector has bright future

for years to come. And finally, the BBPA, CAMRA, FLVA, BFBI and BISL have joined together to challenge the burden of business rates on Britain’s pubs, according to the Morning Advertiser. The group has written to Chancellor George Osborne calling for an extension of Small Business Rate Relief beyond April 2014 in the Autumn Statement. The letter follows the Parliamentary motion put forward in the House of Commons last week calling for the same extension of business rate relief. The letter reads: “Dear Chancellor, the pub and hospitality sector very much welcomed your previous decisions to extend SBRR. With this vital support for small businesses due to expire in April 2014 we, the five bodies and associations that represent, or have a strong interest in the success of the pub sector, are writing to urge you to extend this relief going forward.

“Following your historic decision to cut beer duty and a good summer, pubs are beginning to see new opportunities. The potential for a significant increase in costs on our smallest outlets could prompt a new and unwelcome phase of business failure. Indeed for pubs across the country estimates show a likely increase in costs of not extending SBRR of some £27 million - reversing many of the gains from prior Government support for the sector. Any assurance in your Autumn Statement, that this relief will be continued to the end of this Parliament would prompt an extremely positive reaction from the wider sector and, we are sure, would prompt a toast to you in pubs across the land.”

has been a good year for beer and Perhaps some think I have lost Tmyhispubs. mind since trading conditions over last winter were so tough but we have enjoyed a boost over summer.Volume is falling still in the sector but spend is stabilising. The reputation and profile and consumer interest has improved faster than any other year I can remember.We have evolved from fragmented, introspective and at times negative towards a dynamic, creative, entrepreneurial, forward looking sector with a bright future. Importantly we are now seen as a key partner for government: • In the night time economy our approach of targeted enforcement, education and partnership working via Pubwatch, BIDs, Best Bar None is now endorsed by government • Beer and Pubs are recognised as key drivers of tourism With thanks to our supporters in Parliament and HM Treasury, we are seen as an engine for job creation and economic growth.We give our thanks again for listening to our arguments and for abolishing the duty escalator and for cutting duty for the first time since 1959. For the economy to grow, jobs to be created, tax revenues to rise, national debt to come down … individuals,companies and industries need confidence. A recent survey of our members suggests that the duty cut will create 10,000 jobs. Seventy-six per cent of our members say they will increase investment and 61 per cent employ more staff as a result of the cut.This new found optimism gives a sense of dynamism,creativity and entrepreneurialism. We need to articulate better the job opportunities and career path in our sector.There are obstacles in the school curriculum and a perception that careers in our sector are low paid and low skilled.This is no longer true, but we need to do more to show the pathway for talented young people for front of house skills.The BBPA will always look to help and support when others

are taking the lead such as the Campaign for lower VAT and Let there be Beer campaign.There is a new found confidence in the sector driving us all on.But in the background there remains a concern about statutory intervention in the pub sector. We welcome the DBIS Consultation into the tied pub model as it gave us all the opportunity to submit evidence in a debate clouded by opinion, rhetoric, personal attacks and occasional misrepresentation. Everyone recognises that the tied model needs to evolve and adapt to reflect the changed market conditions, in particular to meet the challenge of the drop in beer volume and growth in food in the on trade. And that is what is happening. Our partner licensees demand more investment, more support,higher quality services, greater flexibility and responsiveness from their pub owners.I know of no company in the BBPA not responding to these changes. It’s how we compete with each other and for the talent out there.This has always been at the heart of the tied house system: low entry cost,shared risk,mutual objectives. It is great to see the uplift in applicants for pubs and the wealth of talent coming forward again.The interests of pub owners will always be linked to the interests of our licensees. The pub industry has had a tough time. Policies and working practices have been under the spotlight, but Draconian intervention could be the worst possible thing to do to stifle investment, crush job growth and curtail entrepreneurialism. Market forces, in my opinion, will always drive the sector forward faster than the dead hand of legislation. We aspire to see the industry return to value growth, growth in jobs, investment, margins, without a commensurate increase in health or social harm. We may be a year or two off growth but the work of the last year has, I believe, laid the foundations for the dawn of a new golden era for the industry.

2340-p32-newsweek:Coinslot NEW

29/10/13

16:17

Page 1

Coinslot November 1 - November 7, 2013

Newsweek RONALDO TO JOIN BRASILIAN GAMING CONGRESS egendary Brazilian footballer Ronaldo ‘The Phenomenon’ Luís Nazário de Lima has confirmed he will be speaking at the Brasilian Gaming Congress on November 1820 in Rio de Janeiro. Representing Fundação Fenómenos, he will be speaking about ‘Poker as a mind sport’ and will also be demonstrating some of his skills as a poker player. He will be joined by the Brazilian poker pro and World Series of Poker Champion André Akkari. The Brasilian Gaming

TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

Email: jw@sjc.co.uk

Toy Fair on course for stand space sell-out

has been planned to cater specifically for the European market. Through simultanein the Grand and Lower West Halls, ous translation, French and oy Fair, the UK’s only dedibringing the total footprint for Toy English-speaking experts cated toy, game and hobby will be leading delegates Fair 2014 to 22,000 square metres. trade exhibition, has already “I’m extremely pleased to wel- through a wide range of subsold out all exhibition space in come back MGA Entertainment, Lit- jects aimed at improving Olympia’s Upper West Hall for its tleTikes and Zapf Creation toToy Fair,” their casino slot floors 2014 show. commented Simon Pilling, head of through effective marketing, Zapf Creation,MGA Entertainment Toy Fair operations and sales.“It is fan- performance assessment and LittleTikes will be returning toToy tastic to sell out the Upper West Hall and matching player profile Fair for the first time since 2007, takso early and to have the support of to game type. At each Slot ing the remaining 180 square metres. those exhibiting companies who Summit, casino managers, Andrew Laughton,managing direchave moved upstairs. We are very slot managers and markettor of MGA Entertainment,LittleTikes Other companies to take exhibi- close to selling out the rest of the ing staff are taken through and Zapf Creation, said: “We are delighted to be back at next year’sToy tion space in the Upper West Hall as show and we’re grateful for the con- the key elements of building Fair.2013 has been an incredible year part of Toy Fair’s 1500 square metre tinued support the show gets from a successful slot floor - from recognising the types of so far for MGA, Little Tikes and Zapf expansion in 2014 include Hasbro, the industry.” Toy Fair 2014 takes place on Tues- players to choosing the right Creation and we’re very much look- Bandai and Drumond Park. This leaves just two stands remain- day 21 January 2014 to Thursday 23 game volatility to maximise ing forward to showcasing our excitrevenue and encourage ing new lines to the trade in January.” ing on the gallery and 68m2 to be sold January 2014 at London’s Olympia. return visit. SLOT SUMMIT TO FOCUS Congress has been designed international companies with experts. Networking opporON EUROPEAN MARKET tunities and receptions dura unique opportunity to paras a high-level platform to he European Casino ing and after the Congress ticipate in and influence a engage with the Brazilian Association’s Slot debate on gaming regulation hours will offer numerous institutions and with key Summit, taking place occasions to engage with the that will involve legislators, established market particiin Enghien-les-Bains, regulators, international and key market participants and pants. The three-day event France, on December 10-12, influencers on the ground. regional media and industry will provide regional and

Calendar UK EVENTS NOVEMBER 2013 6 Dream Toys 2013 St Mary’s Church Wyndham Place York Street London 7 BISL Annual Conference 2013 Kia Oval London UK www.bisl.org 21-23 EAG International 2014 ExCeL London London UK www.eagexpo.com

21-23 The Toy Fair 2014 Grand Hall Olympia London UK www.toyfair.co.uk

27 BACTA Members Pre-Convention Party Hippodrome Casino London UK www.bacta.org 28 BACTA Convention & AGM QEII London UK www.bacta.org

DECEMBER 2013 6 BACTA North West region annual charity ball Imperial Hotel in Blackpool www.barbarathompson@cuerdenleisure.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL EVENTS NOVEMBER 2013 12-14 SAGSE Buenos Aires Costa Salguero Convention Centre Buenos Aires Argentina www.monografie.com

EDITORIAL Editor: Alex Lee Email: al@sjc.co.uk Tel: 01204 396 397 Assistant Editor: James Walker Email: jw@sjc.co.uk Tel: 01204 396 397 Managing Editor: Ken Scott Email: ks@sjc.co.uk Tel: 01273 699 900 ADVERTISING SALES Kathryn Norris Email: knorris@gbmedia.eu Tel: 01204 396 397 Fax: 01204 392 748 SUBSCRIPTIONS Sarah Haworth Tel: 01204 396 397 DIGITAL VERSION Marc Lawton Email: mlawton@gbmedia.eu Tel: 01204 396 397 PRODUCTION Designer: Gina Lloyd Email: gl@sjc.co.uk Ad Production & Pre-Press: Dave Roderick Email: gdk@sjc.co.uk PUBLISHER Director: John Sullivan GB Media Corporation Ltd, Bolton Technology Exchange, 33 Queensbrook, Bolton BL1 4AY

Tel: 01204 396 397 Fax: 01204 392 748 Email: jsullivan@gbmedia.eu OFFICES Editorial and Production: 3rd Floor, 20 New Road, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1UF (UK) Tel: 01273 699 900 Advertising and Subscriptions: Coinslot International, Bolton Technology Exchange,33 Queensbrook, Bolton BL1 4AY Tel: 01204 396 397 Fax: 01204 392 748 Opinions expressed in this publication should not be regarded as the official view of GB Media Corporation Ltd, except where stated. Views, opinions and recommendations contained in this publication are put forward for consideration only. No action should be taken in reliance upon any such views, opinions or recommendations. Neither GB Media Corporation Ltd nor contributors accept any responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person howsoever caused or arising as a result of or in consequence of action taken or refrained from in realiance on the contents of this publication. Notes for contributors: Coinslot welcomes the submission of articles for consideration by the editor with a view to publication. Submission of an article will be held to imply that the article contains original unpublished work which GB Media Corporation Ltd may lawfully publish. All submissions are made at the owner’s risk. © GB Media Corporation Ltd, 2013 All rights strictly reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission given, full acknowledgement of author, publisher and source must be given.