Price: £2.50
August 8 – August 14, 2014 • No. 2380 • www.coinslot.co.uk
2380-p02-inside flap_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 14:52 Page 1
COINSLOT
Industry news Seaside amusements Service Report Latest Machine Charts B2B Listings Classified ads and opps Comment & Analysis Newsweek
COMMENT
4 10 12 18 19 22 26 28
While the online gambling industry may be Bitcoin’s saviour, there is also the chance for online gambling to force Bitcoin into a niche, keeping it out of the mainstream.
The 10 areas to benefit from LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
Jubilee Pool Lido, Penzance (pictured) - £1,950,000 Funds will repair and relaunch the Grade II Listed ‘Jubilee Pool’ to create an all year round attraction. Restoration will make it a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the local area. Jobs: 38 Victorian Arches, Portsmouth £1,755,000 The Arches, in central Old Portsmouth, have been used informally by artists since the 1960s. The project will refurbish the Arches as part of an “ARTches” project to provide affordable workspace and exhibition space. It will form a “creative hub” with leisure and catering attractions within a historic setting and give a boost to nearby shops and services. Jobs created/safeguarded: 105 Waldringfield Flood Defence, Suffolk - £633,000 Funds will help pay for the construction of a system of flood defences for homes and businesses in the flood area on the River Deben Estuary. Jobs: 51 Maltings Building - Wells-nextthe-Sea, near Cromer -
£610,000 Wells Maltings Trust aims to transform a dilapidated 19th century Maltings building into an integrated arts, heritage and learning space with auditorium, café and tourist information point. It will provide space for learning as well as an all year round tourist destination. Jobs: 95 South West Coastal Path Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset - £1,114,000 This project will repair, improve and promote the South West Coastal Path. Funds will help with 32 urgent repair works to the path, information boards and signage and marketing. Jobs: 782 RSPB Nature Reserve, Bempton Cliffs, Yorkshire £452,000 Funding will enhance the facilities at the reserve, improve the visitor experience and create year-round revenues to further develop wildlife conservation work with a view to attract a further 10,000 visitors per year. Jobs: 14, volunteer places: 30 Yorkshire WildlifeTrust, Spurn Point - £498,000 The project includes the restoration of the iconic
JCM Innovation acqu BUY-OUT
Innovation Corp, a subsidiary of JCM American Corp, JhasCM entered into an agreement to buy US-based FutureLogic Inc from American Capital Ltd.The acquisition adds to JCM’s line of peripheral component products, including bill validators, printers and digital media.The terms of the deal have not been disclosed. JCM American designs and manufactures currency validating equipment and cash registers, also serving the gaming industry. FutureLogic provides printer solutions for a wide range of applications, including
casino and gaming vouchers. FutureLogic printers and couponing solutions “provide technology platforms for growth initiatives and recurring revenue,” said JCM in a statement. “The products will strengthen and diversify JCM’s peripheral portfolio to the marketplaces and industries it serves globally, such as banking, gaming, kiosk, retail and transportation,” it added. In addition to the FutureLogic line of products, JCM will continue to market, sell, service and support the Nanoptix line of printers.
2380-p03-front_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 14:51 Page 2
ESSENTIAL GUIDE
INDUSTRY
At your service
Protocol coup for new gambling group
12
5
27 August 8 - August 14, 2014 • No. 2380 • www.coinslot.co.uk
fit from cash influx
Ten seaside towns to receive funding INVESTMENT
New government funding for various coastal projects is predicted to help create and safeguard nearly 1,400 jobs, assist with winter storm repairs and give the seaside coin-op sector another mini-boost. his week, ten coastal towns received new funding for projects that will help create and safeguard nearly 1,400 jobs and help with essential repairs in areas affected by the winter storms. A lido, Victorian arches and a coastal path are some of the schemes to benefit from money that will help with restoration. More than £8.5m is being distributed to towns around England for schemes that will create tourist attractions, regenerate historic sites and provide new flood defences. The money is being made available from the government’s Coastal Communities Fund and will attract a further £6.2m from other private and public bodies. Prime Minister David Cameron and Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne also announced an extra £3m for the fund to encourage growth and create jobs in coastal towns. Seaside towns have untapped potential to create vibrant economies and are an important part of the government’s long-term economic plan to boost jobs and businesses around the country.Not only that, they feature some of the UK’s finest coin-op offerings. Coastal Communities Minister Penny Mordaunt said:“Our Coastal Communities Fund is bringing about some really innovative projects around the country and schemes that will make a big difference to those towns affected by the winter storms. Seaside towns are a strong part of this country’s heritage and have huge potential to create new businesses that provide jobs.They are an important part of the government’s long-term economic plan and we are determined to help these communities reach their true potential.” Chief Secretary to the Treasury,
T
Matthew’s Lighthouse into a heritage/visitor centre and nearby gun emplacement on the Point, the creation of a visitor centre with café, and the development of sustainable transport links to replace access lost in the 2013 storms. It will address seasonality in local tourism sector. Jobs: 77 Historic Fruit Market - Kingston upon Hull - £800,000 This project will continue regeneration of the historic ‘Fruit Market’ area of Hull and improvements to pathways, street furniture and other public realm works. Jobs: 100 Park View 4 U, near Lytham St Annes - £395,000
This will turn a derelict site into a new visitor attraction with a sand and water play area. The area will be landscaped in a seaside theme and will used to deliver education and activities about the natural surroundings of the coast, along with a café. Jobs: 11 Youth Hostels - Brighton and Robin Hoods Bay - £401,000 Funding will help establish a new hostel in Brighton and redevelop an existing youth hostel on the North Yorkshire coast. These will provide new and improved holiday accommodation. This will boost tourism numbers and help create a new café. Jobs: 76
acquires FutureLogic our focus on ‘best-in-class’ components and continual dialog with our key customers, JCM will continue to deliver ‘valueadded’ solutions that the marketplace desires,”stated JCM Global president Akiyoshi Isoi. FutureLogic chief marketing officer John Edmunds said:“We look forward to the next phase of development for FutureLogic as it brings innovative technology and world class customers to help fuel the growth of JCM. “We are fortunate to be in this The combination of JCM and position to capitalise on oppor- FutureLogic product portfolios tunities, such as the acquisition will provide a compelling offerof FutureLogic. By maintaining ing in a variety of markets.”
Danny Alexander, said:“The Coastal Communities Fund is already making a real difference to our coastal towns and helping communities regenerate their local economy. So far the scheme has already supported over 7,500 jobs and 1,400 training places up and down the country. I am delighted to announce an additional £8.5m for coastal projects across the country, this will help communities build a sustainable future for themselves and also benefit visitors to these seaside towns over the years to come.”
The Coastal Communities Fund was launched in 2012 to invest in seaside towns and villages, helping them achieve their economic potential, reduce unemployment and create new opportunities for young people in their local area. It is helping seaside towns make the most of their potential by diversifying their economies and industries so they become year-round success stories.The fund has to date already spent £54m, supporting around 7,500 jobs around the UK, more than 300 new business startups and 1,400 training places. Furthermore, news broke recently that Eastbourne would benefit from a £2m cash injection in the wake of last week’s pier arcade fire. While cynics would happily suggest that the initiative is purely floating voter bait in marginal constituencies, the fact of the matter is that a little investment can go a long way, particularly when it comes to additional footfall contributing to the survival of the coastal coin-op scene.
2380-p04-05-industry_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 11:15 Page 1
4
Coinslot August 8 - August 14, 2014
Industry
8
Controversy reigns in wake of Eastbourne pier fire
Event organiser issues defiant video gaming message
PIERS
P
ndy Brown, organiser of Play Blackpool, a convention which sees gamers and A nostalgia fans come together to the Nor-
nesses may have been wrecked by the fire promised help.The Eastbourne Pier Benevolent Fund has been set-up offering free market stall pitches, and it is hoped empty stores can also be used as ‘pop-up’ shops. The fire has come at the height of the town’s summer tourist season, just before Eastbourne’s biggest summer tourist event, the annual Airbourne air show,which attracts tens of thousands of people. Osborne said the fire had been devastating news, but a package of financial support would aim to minimise the effect on business and tourism. “We will work with Eastbourne as a matter of urgency to ensure that the funding is provided without delay so people can start enjoying the pier again,” he said. Eastbourne’s Liberal Democrat MP Stephen Lloyd said he hoped the pier could reopen
again next year as two-thirds of it had been saved by firefighters. East Sussex Fire and Rescue said the cause was officially ‘unexplained’ and the investigation would take ‘a number of days’. In the aftermath of the fire, however, it came to light that the Fire Service had recommended sprinklers for the pier. According to the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association, the Fire Service’s advice to install sprinklers in Eastbourne Pier twice in recent years‘was ignored by the pier’s owners. Andy Reynolds, director of prevention and protection at East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service,said the owners of Eastbourne Pier were told in 2006 and 2009 to install sprinklers. He claims, however, that the owners ignored the advice as sprinklers were not enforceable by law. Reynolds said:“On
at least two occasions we recommended to the owners of the pier that they should install sprinklers. It’s not enforceable and for them probably not cost effective so they didn’t take up the option. Without a doubt sprinklers would have helped reduce the damage of the fire. When they’re fitted correctly and operating they do a good job.They detect fires with heat sensitive bulbs that react to a certain temperature.As soon as it hits the right temperature,the sprinkler operates and is connected to an alarm.” He added:“There still would have been a fire, but the sprinkler system holds it in check so it wouldn’t have grown.” Reynolds revealed he would be pushing for the installation of a sprinkler system in the pier’s refurbishment following the news the town would receive £2m from the government.
Car smashes into amusement arcade ACCIDENT
car drove into Pier View Amusements arcade in A Beach Street, Deal, on August 4, causing extensive damage to the premises. The police were called to the scene just before 1.30am to reports of the incident. Operator Rob Grinstead, said he was first informed by his niece, who lives nearby. Grinstead told local press: “My niece heard it - there was a bang. When she saw the
Email: al@sjc.co.uk
RETRO VIDEO GAMES
Eastbourne is set to benefit from a £2m boost, following a fire that burned down the former pier amusement arcade last week amid rumours of a failure to heed safety warnings.
rime Minister David Cameron and Chancellor George Osborne have pledged to donate up to £2m to help local businesses to recover from last week’s devastating pier fire in Eastbourne. On July 31, up to 80 firefighters, along with RNLI crews, tackled the blaze on the GradeII listed pier. No-one was injured and Sussex Police have said the fire is not believed to be suspicious. Cameron and Osborne are also announcing an extra £3m for the government’s Coastal Communities Fund to encourage growth and create jobs in coastal towns.The PM told the BBC:“The loss of one of Eastbourne’s most prominent and well-loved landmarks will have hit the town hard,” and he was determined to “help local businesses recover”. August 1 saw uninsured kiosk holders whose busi-
TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE
damage she phoned me up.” CCTV was in operation, but Grinstead said the lights of the vehicle were too bright - and
couldn’t make out the registration. Around two hours were spent making some vital repairs in order to keep the
arcade open. He continued: “We are still open. We have boarded it up for now.” Grinstead has appealed for anyone with information to come forward in confidence. A Kent Police spokesman said: “The wall of an amusement arcade sustained damage but the vehicle failed to stop following the incident. Inquiries are ongoing at this stage but anyone with information about the collision should contact Kent Police on 101.”
breck Castle for one weekend a year to play retro video games, believes that the latest raft of coin-op machines can help revive the arcade scene. Reflecting on his video gaming days, he told local press:“It was something you had to go out to do. I like the fact you had to go out with friends to play them.It was a whole social experience and now things have moved away from that a little bit.” The late 70s and early 80s saw a glut of now-legendary games such as Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Paper Boy, Star Wars,Track & Field, Asteroids, Defender and Space Invaders. Brown added:“It wasn’t just in the arcades, lots of cafes and places like that had them. When we got the school bus we’d go to this place called The Elbow Room.We used to pile in there with our dinner money. We never used to eat and we’d save our money for games like Pac Land instead. I remember going out and playing the first Space Invaders game, too.” The console explosion, which meant graphically-rich video games could be played at home, signalled the death-knell for arcades which predominantly featured coinop video machines. Brown added:“I guess there’s just the convenience of having games at home. There was such a big culture shift from going out and having this experience away from your home. In the 80s it used to cost a huge amount of money to make these machines but now everyone has the equivalent of a very powerful arcade game in their own home.” He believes, however, that coin-op video gaming is more than capable of making a big comeback. He said:“I’d love to see some of it brought back, but rather than just games now you have companies.You have a whole sensual experience with big machines on hydraulic legs and air blasted at you - things you can’t do at home. If people do start to produce big machines again they have to make them on that kind of experience,almost like going on a ride at the Pleasure Beach.”
2380-p04-05-industry_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 11:17 Page 2
INDUSTRY AMUSEMENTS LEISURE B2B
COMMENT NEWSWEEK
REPORT Essential Guide examines the world of after sales and service - the real ghost busters of the UK coin-op industry. 12
New gambling body produces cashless and TiTO protocol TECHNOLOGY
The Gambling Business Group, led by CEO Peter Hannibal, has achieved a major coup. Just one month since it was formally launched at the beginning of July, the strategic gaming body, through its Machines Sub-Group has produced two key documents that form the technical standards for a long awaited UK machines cashless and ticketing protocol.
The newly-formed GBG has made an instant impression on the coin-op sector by introducing a pair of technical standards documents. One is for general web services and the other extends the ccTalk technical standards, which enables compatibility with current UK Machines. The documents are available to any organisation which has an interest in either operating such a machines ticketing solution or providing compatible components, systems and/or solutions. Most of the UK’s machine manufacturers, ticket printer suppliers, note validator and peripheral manufacturers, systems
providers and solutions suppliers have been involved in the process, including Bell Fruit Games, Barcrest/SG Gaming, Project Coin, Playsafe Embed, Future Logic, Eurocoin, GeWeTe, Innovative Technologies, Astra Games, Merkur-Blueprint and with particular help and support from Rob Wheeler of FutureLogic and Dave Bush from Aardvark. According to Peter Hannibal, such a collaboration of technical knowledge and insight is unprecedented in the UK machine industry.He explained:“For many years, UK machines operators have looked upon other jurisdictions who operate TiTO and similar systems with envy. Dreams of lower service reduced demands, machine floats, zero refills and income improvements remained as just dreams. With the exception of the casino sector, the two significant blocks that stood in the way of the rest of the UK adopting a ticketing machines
system had been the prohibitive cost - including licensing and the heterogeneous technology used by manufacturers.” He added: “The documents are now in circulation and are intended to be used by the industry as a set of rules for cashless and ticketing. Operators can at last start looking at introducing ticketing to their businesses over the coming months. With the freedom to go to any supplier or provider of systems, components or turn-key solutions, I am confident that we have enabled this to be a competitive situation for buyers.” Hannibal concluded: “The individuals that have contributed their time, efforts and resource to make this Protocol possible should be recognised as ‘rainmakers’. In an industry that has taken on a divisive stance for so long it has been a delight to deliver this protocol and I genuinely hope that it is a sign that our industry is turning a political corner.”
BBC commissions three-part LBO documentary TELEVISION
BC One is set to explore the world of B high street gambling in a new series entitled The Bookies. The channel has commissioned a new three-part documentary which will go behind the scenes at Coral, one of the UK’s biggest high street and online bookmakers. The programme intends to ‘explore the workings of the increasingly popular pastime, which is enjoyed by eight million people in Britain each year’. It will follow the lives of
punters who gamble thousands, to those who place smaller bets on football matches and television series, in a bid to learn why gambling is so popular in a time of economic recession. Emma Willis, head of documentaries for BBC1,
BBC2 and BBC4, commented: “Betting shops are a key part of the high street and an unwavering part of modern British life. The Bookies will take a compelling look at how the industry works, the everyday realities of life on the
betting floor and why we’re betting more as a nation.” Boundless, the production company behind the new series, said that it is ‘very excited about this major commission’. Managing director Patrick Holland concluded: “Betting is something that millions of British people take part in, yet we know very little about the world and how it operates. The series will engage with the excitement, the characters and the issues from this major industry.” Just no-one mention F*BTs, okay?
2380-p06-industry_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 16:32 Page 1
Blackpool begins to feel benefit of economic upturn
Sceptre enhances customer experience
RESORTS
OPERATORS
usinesses in Blackpool and the wider Fylde B Coast are starting to feel the impact of the UK’s slowburn economic recovery. Growth of 0.8 per cent over the past three months has seen the national economy reach a level greater than its pre-recession peak, with the service sector leading the way at 2.8 per cent above the January 2008 mark. A gradual increase in consumer confidence has meant that concern over cancelled bookings and reduced spend per head, factors that greatly
impacted the regional economy, is slowly staring to fade. StayBlackpool president Claire Smith told local press: “If you’d asked me this last year I would have said on no level were we feeling that things were improving. “I kept hearing it said and would think ‘well that might be happening down south but we are not feeling it at all. Last year was really as grim as it gets and was a very challenging season. “But right from the off this year, and particularly since Easter, there has been a totally different feel
to things. “I think we are seeing signs of recovery, but only just. We are definitely heading out of it.” Smith said the recovery wasn’t only due to government policies, but a variety of other initiatives taken by stakeholders in the resort as well. She explained: “Blackpool has done a lot to help itself through the tough times, and one of the reasons we are doing much better is because of the action we have taken during the past couple of years.
site operator Sceptre Leisure is creating a Snewingle customer liaison team
“Blackpool has set itself up as one of the best value destinations while people are still looking to budget. “We were in the midst of it three of four years ago and realised something really big had to be done. “Marketing Blackpool came up with some great ideas and now we have the
Resort Pass, Merlin Big Ticket and the special online deals that the Pleasure Beach is offering. “It looks as though many people who are sitting at home thinking they have got a bit more money to do something at last, have chosen to come to Blackpool.”
Cleethorpes air show sees amusement arcades full EVENTS
of shops, amusements, hotels and restauOrantswners were delighted by the
‘‘In a league of its own’’ Dedicated to the UK market. Relaxed, sociable & friendly. Review this year’s products & preview next.
www.coin-opshow.co.uk 15th & 16th October 2014 Chelsea Football Club T: +44 (0)1582 767 254 E: karencooke@swanevents.co.uk
boost in trade created by the recent Cleethorpes air show, several of whom spoke of their delight at the success of the event. More than 200,000 people enjoyed the scorching weather and action-packed displays over the last weekend of July - and plans are already in place for next year’s event. Organisers say they were ‘thrilled’ with the turnout and are now looking forward to staging another two-day air show in 2015. Shops, amusement arcades and restaurants were reported to be ‘packed out’ over the two-day event, which traders have said has boosted the local economy. Manuel Goncalves, joint owner of the Holmhirst Hotel and Restaurant, told local press: “These events have proved to be the best days for us. We’ve had a number of people booking in with us who have come from all over
the place, as far as 50 or 60 miles out. We were fully booked for both days this weekend, so it’s been great for business. It’s also been great for the resort.There was a relaxed atmosphere and no trouble, everyone got on and all the kids had a lot of fun. I think the town needs these events during the summer. It brings out the best in the resort - I just wish it was always like this.” Katie Sheach, manager of the Cleethorpes Mermaid fish and chip shop on the promenade, added:“Business was really good,we picked up a lot of customers - there were people queuing up outside the door both days. The weather really helped,too,so I’d say this is the best weekend we’ve probably had yet. We were working from 10am to 9pm both days. It was manic.” Visitors were treated to appearances from the Red Arrows and aTornado,as well as a Battle Of Britain Memorial Flight,to name but a few.
to ensure high standards on site and to increase customer support. The team, which will be based locally in depots, will make regular site visits aimed at maximising customers’ income. Sceptre has created a new team of 15 customer liaison managers. Their role is to build relationships with customers on site and to drive standards as well as gaining feedback to enhance service quality. Customer liaison managers will visit all customers giving them constructive guidelines to develop new revenue streams and maximise their existing income. The CLM will be an additional point of contact alongside the site business development manager. In addition to the new team, Sceptre has launched a Customer Charter. This is a guarantee of standards promised to every customer. The Customer Charter will be presented to all sites in a unique income maximisation pack along with other hints and tips to drive income. Sceptre’s Ken Turner concluded: “Profitable machines can mean the difference between some pubs making a profit or a loss. The pack is designed to emphasise importance of machines and to help customers and players get the most out of them. We are investing in our employees and see this as a development role, transforming the business at operational level and enhancing the overall customer experience.”
2380-p08-industry_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 14:46 Page 1
NEW FROM FROM SOUNDNET SOUNDNET NEW
RENTAL DEALS FOR SOUND LEISURE JUKEBOXES YOU OWN OWN THE THE JUKE JUKE AFTER AFTER 33 YEARS YEARS YOU
VHUB P32
NEW INTERFACE + CAMERA WITH MUSIC COSTS
£31.28 PER WEEK
You pay £31.28 a week for 3 years ZLWK D ½QDO SD\PHQW RI DQG WKH MXNH LV \RXUV ¯ DOO PXVLF FKDUJHV LQFOXGHG VWDQGDUG ZDUUDQW\ IURP 6RXQG /HLVXUH ([FOXGHV 8QOLPLWHG DFFHVV 7KLV LV DQ RSWLRQDO H[WUD SHU PRQWK
CALL NOW. YOU COULD GET A NEW JUKE DELIVERED WITHIN A WEEK!
7 020 7644 8888 soundnet.net
Playnation drives its own vision with new crane
Astra Gaming launches Playnice website MULTI-MEDIA
The Astra Gaming Group has announced the launch of a new website, Playnice.org.uk, which aims to promote a safe and responsible approach to enjoying gaming. The portal also explains some of the facts behind the way gaming works and acts as a signpost to professional help and advice for individuals who are concerned they may be developing a problem.
n order to inform players about how to enjoy gaming safely and reinforce its commitment to corporate social responsibility, the Astra Gaming Group has launched the website Playnice.org.uk. Visitors to the site can access six main sections comprising Responsible Gaming, How Gaming Works,Check List,Self Help, Further Help and Advice and the Astra Gaming Group Code. Each is designed and presented in a clear, easy to understand format.To raise awareness of the site, every new gaming machine produced by the Astra Gaming Group will have a sticker bearing the web address.Additionally, Gamestec will distribute Playnice point-of-sale
I
material to its customers. Of key importance is the Check List section which features 11 simple questions about the extent to which players gamble and, inter alia, the factors that influence their levels of play. In the event that a player answers positively to any of the questions,they are encouraged to go to the Self Help page or, if appropriate, access the Further Help and Advice section to find out more about professional intervention. The central theme of the Playnice site is all about encouraging players to maintain a positive and proactive approach to keeping gaming safe and enjoyable. The Self Help page, for example, advises players to talk to someone they trust about their gam-
CRANE MACHINES
bling and to take regular breaks. It advocates developing good habits such as knowing and establishing limits on time and money spent on gaming. Zane Mersich, CEO of the Astra Gaming Group, insists that the Playnice initiative plays a vital role in the company’s drive to promote solid corporate social responsibility (CSR) principles throughout its workforce and the wider industry. He commented: “As a major stakeholder in the UK gaming space, the Astra Gaming Group is fully committed to meeting its CSR obligations.It is of paramount importance that our customers are able to enjoy
Scientific Games buys out Bally Technologies BUY-OUT
Scientific Games Corp has agreed to acquire Bally Technologies Inc for approximately $3.3bn (£1.96bn), excluding net debt, in a move which represents yet another hi-profile gaming sector buy-out. cientific Games, headed up by billionaire Ronald SPerelman, will pay $83.30 in cash per Bally common share, the companies said in a statement on August 1, a premium of 38 per cent over Bally’s closing price on July 31. The buy-out marks the second $1bn-plus acquisition in less than a year for Scientific Games, at a time the gambling manufacturing sector faces weaker consumer spending, casinos posting losses and online competition from. In the acquisition of Las Vegas-based Bally,Scientific
Games takes an established and successful manufacturer of slots and card shuffling machines, which was more than three times larger based on the most up-to-date market capitalisations. The move will be nothing new to Gavin Isaacs, who took over at Scientific Games in June. He was formerly CEO of SHFL Entertainment Inc, which was bought by Bally last year for $1.3bn, and before that worked as COO at Bally. Scientific Games and Bally anticipate $220m cost savings per annum and
$25m in annual capitalexpenditure savings by consolidating operations and generating efficiencies in the areas of manufacturing, engineering, field and customer service and administrative operations. The deal,which includes net debt of $1.8bn, immediately adds to Scientific Games’ earnings per share, according to the statement released by the firm last week. Measured by annual revenue, the two firms are of similar size.The companies said they generated combined sales of approximately $3.0bn in the year
ended March 31. Scientific Games jumped 28 per cent to $10.95 in early trading after slumping 37 percent in the past year.As of July 31, the New York-based company, with a market capitalisation of $720m,had the highest price-to-earnings ratio compiled by Bloomberg, and one of the lowest priceto-sale ratios. Only a fortnight ago, GTech SpA agreed to buy International Game Technology for $4.7bn in cash and stock, bringing the world’s largest provider of lottery systems together
our products and do so safely and responsibly.” He added: “Since the introduction of the Gambling Act 2005, the industry has seen a much greater focus on CSR. Consequently, policy makers are placing increasing pressure on stakeholders to ensure that they are doing everything within their power to minimise the potential for problem gambling. The launch of Playnice demonstrates a willingness to fulfil that requirement and sends a positive missive to legislators that the industry is unwavering in its commitment to looking after the well-being of players.”
eading operator Playnation, which currently Loperates over 20,000
machines in over 1,500 locations within holiday parks, bowling alleys, airports and motorway service stations has collaborated with Sega and Ice to design Grab and Win, an innovative new crane. The new crane combines cutting-edge technology with traditional entertainment. Operated with an SD card, which allows total control of the game process by head office, it provides more consistent gameplay once the card has been inserted. The mechanic means that settings can be chosen (off site) based on the size, the weight and the sound associated with each toy, for a more engaging experience. Mark Field, commercial director for Playnation said: “We decided that we needed a crane to suit our business, which is slightly different to most operators - we have a lot of unmanned locations and we also try and standardize our offer across the whole of our operation. Not only is this an innovawith the biggest slot- tion within the category, machine maker. but it’s another step for us Analyst Steven Wieczyn- to ensure our customers, ski believes that now Sci- and their customers, have entific Games and Bally the best experience possihave joined forces that ble when using our they will ‘effectively be machines.” able to compete with GTech/IGT in every aspect’ and that ‘Scientific Games and Bally will have a North American slot-machine share in line to slightly higher,’ than Gtech/IGT. He also stated that in owning SHFL, formerly known as Shuffle Master, will give them a ‘slight advantage’ when dealing with casino operators.
SURF SIDE 6 PLAYER
CELEBRATION
SCENIC RAILWAY
SURF SIDE 12 PLAYER
WORLD OF TOYS 2 PLAYER
TICKET MONSTER
SINK IT
SOCCER SIMPSON
SKATE AIR HOCKEY
SWEET LANES
TICKET HOUSE CRANE
CALL NOW - 01843 866464
Harry Levy Amusement Contractor Ltd | Unit 6 Patricia Way | Pysons Road Industrial Estate | Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 2LF Tel: +44 (0)1843 866464 | Fax: +44 (0)1843 860144 | Email: sales@harry-levy-amusements.com | Web: www.harry-levy-amusement.com
2380-p10-Amusements_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 14:28 Page 1
Amusements TOURISM
PIERS
rown Leisure managing director Dean Harding C has recalled his horror at
Tourism VAT cut study presented to Treasury VAT cut for the UK’s tourism economy would lead to a £4bn tax windfall for the Treasury according to new research campaigners have handed to the government. The Nevin Report, commissioned by the Cut Tourism VAT Campaign, said that a cut to five per cent for accommodation and attractions would significantly boost the UK’s tourism economy and cost the exchequer nothing after five years. This comes alongside a boost to gross domestic product each year that will peak at £4bn per annum, as well as the creation of over 120,000 jobs around the UK. Graham Wason, chairman of the Cut Tourism VAT Campaign, said:“This new research is the economic proof the Treasury has asked for to prove what every other country in Europe knows – that cutting VAT on holidays is prof-
Email: al@sjc.co.uk
Harding recalls horror at Eastbourne Pier blaze
Cut Tourism VAT has presented the government with what it believes is a watertight case for a cut to five per cent tax on accommodation and attractions.
A
8
TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE
itable for governments. “Many of our coastal towns are ignored but cutting VAT would help them thrive. More than 60 crossparty MPs have signed our parliamentary motion and more than 1,000 companies and groups are backing the campaign. “David Cameron and George Osborne should remember that next election will be won or lost in the regions and in coastal constituencies which would benefit from the huge boost cutting tourism VAT would add to our economy.” The UK is currently one of the most expensive destinations to holiday in the world, ranked 138th out of 140 for price competitiveness by the Travel and Tourism Index, and one of just four countries in Europe not to have a reduced form of VAT for the tourism sector. This is despite tourism is being of the UK’s largest sec-
tors - employing over 3.1m people and generating £127bn for GDP in 2013. The report reveals that similar cuts made in France, Germany and Ireland in the last five years have been hugely successful, and that a cut in the UK would boost investment, jobs and visitor numbers for the UK’s tourism economy. Dermot King, managing director of Butlins owner Bourne Leisure, said:“As the pound continues to strengthen against the Euro, driven by a combination of Mark Carney indicating higher UK interest rates and the European Central Bank considering a programme of quantitative easing, the gap in price competitiveness between the UK and her European partners widens. “Outside of the London bubble,UK tourism continues to try to compete with not just one but increasingly two arms tied behind its back.” The report said a cut
would help the wider economy, stating that for each £1 spent in the tourism industry, 70p extra is spent in other sectors, benefitting retailers, the construction sector and a host of others – while reducing the shadow economy. It also said cutting VAT would help stem the UK’s tourism balance of payment deficit (the amount spent by UK residents on international holidays compared to the amount spent by tourists coming here), which currently stands at £14bn. Nick Varney, chief executive of Merlin Entertainments, said: “Doing a few fancy posters saying ‘Heritage is Great’ and putting them up at Shanghai Airport is not going to turn around 30 years of constant decline. “If all UK holidays became 15 per cent cheaper, economics tells you what’s going to happen.”
the fire that completely destroyed the amusement arcade building on Eastbourne Pier last week. East Sussex Fire and Rescue Services believe the blaze started in a wall panel of the arcade, which is operated by Crown. Although an outgoing tide and low water pressure hampered fire crews, two-thirds of the structure was saved and no injuries were recorded. Harding told Coinslot about the moment he received the news: “I had a phone call to say we had a small fire on Eastbourne Pier shortly before 3pm. I then went into a meeting, and afterwards I picked up an email that said it had got a lot worse and the fire brigade were on the scene. “Piers are old structures standing in the middle of the sea with plenty of oddities and complications, so when you see what has happened at other piers with fires, you fear the worse. You instantly worry about staff and people on the pier, but I was told straight away that it had been evacuated very quickly before the fire got hold. “There’s never going to
be a good time for this to happen, but we were just hitting the peak of the season. I would guess that the weather only added to the situation. Watching the news, it looked very hot and very dry, and there was a light breeze fanning the flames.” Harding said around 200 machines had been lost in the arcade, but that the real cost of the fire could come from damage to the pier itself. He explained: “It’s not the value of the machines although that would have been considerable as we always invest in new equipment every year - it’s the value of the structure both above and below the deck. Until we get a full understanding of the situation it is very difficult to estimate what that will be.” Even with the example of the Grand Pier in Westonsuper-Mare, which was totally destroyed by fire in 2008 but has since been successfully rebuilt by the Michael family, Harding was concerned for the future in Eastbourne. He added: “Looking at the Grand Pier today it is a credit to that family, but Eastbourne is a very different pier. It was a very Victorian pier before the fire, and until we get some clarity we really won’t know where to start.”
SIX PIERS, PART OF CUERDEN LEISURE
From ‘Parent & Child’ Go-Karts...
...our business is child’s play!
And Bumper Boats...
To Rides That Run On Ice Rinks... We Have Been Providing ‘Family FUN For Everyone’, Since 1969!
www.worldofrides.com Please ask about our very competitive finance facilities and our ‘All the FUN of the Share’ schemes.
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 13:52 Page 1
12
B 2 B
18 This week’s machine charts
19 B2B listings and industry marketplace
Essential Guide to... After S Sector Overview KEYNOTE
SWOT ANALYSIS
Aftersales should never be an afterthought
It’s what happens
22 Classified sales, job and business opps
Embed sales executive Steven Wooley tells Coinslot why top quality aftersales is just as important as top quality products. oinslot: How important is good aftersales when it comes to cultivating positive word of mouth about your company? Steven Wooley: At Embed the aftersales service and support is as important as the sale itself.As a company in this small industry, if you wish to build a long term relationship with the customer the journey does not end with the sale - it is just the beginning. With today’s modern technology customers can easily provide valuable feedback on your business methods and are willing to share their experiences on social media and word of mouth.Feedback is key, especially in an market like the amusement industry where we all speak to each other regularly to keep a positive impression and experience for all our customers.
C
20 The countdown to Coinslot’s Surreal Soccer
AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
Essential Guide to Bowlplexes Next Week Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
CS: As a company that offers a technologically advanced product, is it particularly important for you to have knowledgeable customer service representatives on call? SW:When a customer calls to any of the Embed offices, they want to have confidence that the person whom they are dealing with has the knowledge to answer any question or concern that they may have. If a system is purchased from Embed, we deliver what has been promised and, more importantly, meets the needs of their specific business requirements. Further, the customers prefer to speak with a support member that not only understands the product, but their business. A full understanding on how the system works for their location and how they can use the features to better increase guest visits, increase guest spend and loyalty is key to these customer service calls. CS: How does Embed ensure a high level of customer service while servicing a global customer base? SW: Each Embed office has its own management team who are responsible for their key areas within the business.The majority of staff at our Embed offices have extensive industry experience and understand the challenges that our customers face when there is an issue with their system or product.With this experience it
The quality of service provided beyond a product’s initial deployment on the arcade or FEC floor can be a vital factor underpinning an operator’s purchasing decisions. In the ultracompetitive arena of amusements and gaming, where products are many, but profit margins are often slim, a swift, decisive and professional after-sales service makes all the difference. he industry has contracted over the last decade or two, therefore as demand for new products has slowed and product margins have fallen, after-sales service - which ultimately safeguards returns on investment - has become less of an afterthought and more an integral part of any supplier or distributor’s armoury. As a natural by-product, spares and components providers have become more organised, professional and altogether quicker to react to the market’s needs.The provision of after-sales service has now become an integral consideration of any firm with something to sell, particularly outfits whose main business is in the production or distribution of the many and varied types of coin-op products. Indisputable evidence exists to show that improving the quality of customer service is a vital factor in achieving a competitive advantage. In other words, a good product remains necessary in the first instance, but it is no longer sufficient on its own to compete in today’s UK coin-op trading environment. Equally, shoddy after sales service can have an adverse effect on a company’s reputation. If service requirements such as replacement parts or technical updates aren’t provided efficiently - and in double quick time - the obvious conclusion is customer frustration and loss of further sales. Making extra money from after-sales is desirable, but in many cases providing an efficient and reliable after-sales service can be used as a highly competitive tool for promoting the products in question and creating a better image for the company that manufactured or distributed it. It has long become clear that after sales adds value to the product that was originally bought. A solid after-sales service allows operators to gain maximum value from their purchase and, ideally, lets them ensure that it is available to their customers for many years of trouble-free use. Furthermore, it is no longer enough to provide operators with
T
helps to empathise with the end user and resolve any issues promptly at the same time make the process as easy as possible. CS: How does your company deal with faulty equipment in a way that maintains a good customer relationship? SW: All new Embed equipment supplied comes with a 12 month return-to-base warranty and,during this time,if the part is found to be faulty then it is replaced free of charge immediately. If a customer wishes to return small parts, we use an automated online reporting system that the customer can complete at their convenience.This allows the customer to provide some basic details and detail the fault with the part before returning it to their local Embed office. We endeavour to send a replacement part out the same day as long as the part is in stock. Embed sends electronic communication directly to the customer to advise them when the returned item has been received and again when the replacement part will be shipped, so that delivery can be anticipated. Depending on the system error or fault reported,a review of the impact to the business will be completed and Embed will happily send an engineer to site the same or next day to resolve the issue.This is something that, as a company having local representation across the globe,sets Embed apart from any of our competitors in the industry. No other system provider can offer the level of customer dedication offered by Embed. Recently we received a call from a customer in the Netherlands that has multiple locations, which experienced an issue after its IT team completed some updates to the local networks.We had an engineer on location to resolve the issue in under 24 hours with minimal to no interruption to their business. The customer was impressed with the dedication, response time and level of professionalism.
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 07/08/2014 11:40 Page 2
13
er Sales & After Service
B 2 B
ppens after the sale that counts SWOT ANALYSIS AFTER-SALES STRENGTHS
OPPORTUNITIES
• Customer satisfaction breeds long-term distributor/operator relationships • Important additional revenue source • Operators can no longer afford to buy from firms without a competent aftersales service
• Operators will buy more often and/or in greater quantities if they’ve benefited from a good after-sales service • Greater customer retention, therefore freezing out competitors • Advantage can be gained over competition as many products are similar
WEAKNESSES THREATS • Too much emphasis and investment on after-sales can eat into overall profits • An element of machine downtime is inevitable
only measured by the ROI and overall performance of the machines purchased, but by the total value received and by the quality of the interaction and relationship experience throughout the products’ lifespan. In an industry that has shrunk as much as ‘only’ the best-in-class machines, but also to therefore evolved into an integral part of UK coin-op, after-sales have become more important than ever before. It is no coincigive them the peace of mind that a thorough any distributor’s armoury. An operator’s satisfaction is therefore not dence that an unhappy customer, dissatisafter-sales service provides.After-sales has • Spares are harder to source for older machines or those manufactured abroad • New legislation can render machines onsite obsolete or less profitable
fied with the level, speed and efficiency of a distributor’s after-sales support will soon look elsewhere when it comes to updating his arcade floor. Customer loyalty, therefore, is ultimately ensured by a consistent level of after-sales service from the first moment something goes awry - a fact that is not lost on the companies showcased this week.
Fast Track Repairs Coin Acceptors* Note Acceptors* Power Supplies* Sega / Namco Game Boards* Scorpion 4 & 5 MPU* LCD Monitors / Touchscreens* Free Collection & Return**
Machine Spares Pool & Snooker LED Lighting Repairs Security Cash Handling Change Machines Custom Engineered Solutions
Offer valid for UK customers only **Minimum 5 items per collection / Average 7 day turnaround / Excludes Northern Ireland / ROI & Certain UK Postcodes, collection / delivery by UPS.
sales@suzohapp.co.uk
0208 391 7700
www.suzohapp.co.uk
*Contact our Sales Team for more info on 0208 391 7700 or sales@suzohapp.co.uk for details Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 15:18 Page 3
14
B 2 B
Essential Guide to ... After Sales & After Se Market Perspectives VIEWPOINT
OPENING REMARKS
Less downtime, more fun Product knowledge, attention to detail and a quick response time are the three qualities which define today’s coin-op after-sales services.
alex lee foreword he provision of a sound, practical and effective after-sales service nowadays Tcomes as part and parcel of the coin-op
Aftersales a priority for operators Speed, efficiency and knowledge is the holy trifecta for customer service when it comes to keeping operators happy and in business. or operators up and down the country, nothing is more frustrating than staring at a faulty machine, not knowing when it will be repaired or how long it will take to fix. If they are to generate the cashbox takings required to justify that initial outlay, these games need to be fully functional for as long as possible.This is what makes reliable aftersales such an important component of any business. Without that guarantee of swift and reliable service, a supplier may well find that their new customers don’t return for a second purchase. For many, speed is the most important factor.“When you want something, you’ve got to have it done straight away,” said Jason Smith, director of Mirage Amusements in Hemsby, Norfolk.“Immediacy is really important.” However, ensuring that the repairs meet expectations is also vital.“If you’re not looked after when a problem arises,”said Smith,“and they don’t get back to you straight away, then obviously you don’t go back to them.” Broken machines sitting dormant not only means that an operator is losing out on potential revenue. More than one machine with an ‘out for order’ sign stuck to the cabi-
F
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
net creates a very poor impression and players who see a row of faulty games are likely to blame the venue, when the real culprit may be slow aftersales.“It depends on the number of inactive machines,” suggests Smith.“If you’ve got some good machines down and you can’t get hold of the required parts it’ll make a substantial difference in your take.” Smith also believes that the level of knowledge exhibited by a supplier must be top notch.As the first port of call for any customer service enquiry, the last thing an operator wants is to be redirected or made to wait.“A lot of the time, suppliers selling machines and they don’t really know what they’re selling,” he said.“You ask them questions and what you often get is - ‘ah, we’ll have to go back to the manufacturer on that.’ Being a salesman, you should know those answers.” It is clear that those suppliers that have found success in the gaming market are those who have placed an emphasis on not only speed and efficiency in their aftersales care, but who also take the time to ensure that their staff are up to speed on all of the products that they sell.
industry. After all, this is a service-led business which demands that the products that we supply are able to work to their optimum levels in often challenging conditions. Added to that, they’re operated at times when servicing and back-up can be difficult to maintain. Factor in the ongoing issue of machines staying out on site for much longer these days, and it’s clear to see that if you’re in the business of supplying or operating, you’ve got to have plenty of strength in depth. As you’ll see from reading many of the contributions featured in this week’s Essential Guide, one of the main positive qualities that are mentioned is the speed with which suppliers are able to put a problem right. Response time, it would seem, is the one big area that separates out the good from the great. Getting a broken machine fixed and back up and running with the least possible downtime and the minimum levels of inconvenience is really the be all and end all. One other crucial factor that regularly crops up is the need for customers to be able to speak with experts who can swiftly get to the heart of a problem before it becomes a major issue. This calls for comprehensive product knowledge, scrupulous attention to detail and, perhaps most importantly, the ability to pass on reassurance to the customer in a way that instils real confidence. The bottom line might seem blindingly obvious. The extra demands placed on older equipment, however, and the increasing requirement to squeeze the maximum profit out of machines is undoubtedly going to mean that the after-sales function is just as important as any other link in the coin-op supply chain.
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 15:19 Page 4
er Service
15
B 2 B
CUSTOMER FOCUS
No stone unturned in search of aftersales perfection Innovative Technology is serious about aftersales, placing huge emphasis on perfecting this vital part of its global business. customer comes first at Innovative with the company’s philosoTphyheTechnology, tightly focussed on providing its patrons with the best possible service.“Our customer is always at the heart of everything we do,” explained customer support manager,Andy Bassam. “Therefore, when it comes to our aftercare service, this is something we take very seriously.As market leaders in our field it is imperative that we continually provide our customers with the best customer service throughout the entire life cycle of the product and beyond.” Even with customers situated all over the world, Bassam said that Innovative Technology promises to,“think global and act local. We endeavour to provide a consistent high level of technical support to customers no matter what industry they specialise in or where they are located worldwide. If a cus-
tomer contacts us, we strive to solve their issue with a rapid response,be it initial implementation, re-programming or problem solving and all products are covered by a comprehensive warranty.” Providing this level of service depends on well trained staff who can support customers with complex technological questions.“Each and every one of our employees prides themselves on being incredibly knowledgeable in their field and continually improving their development,” said Bassam. “We not only strive to provide the most technically advanced products, but to deliver excellent service to our customers worldwide. Due to the advanced technology used within our products, it is imperative that our customer support team is made up of highly qualified, experienced and knowledgeable colleagues and it is of the upmost importance to us that
we solve our customers issues as fast as possible, no matter how big or small the issue.” Ideally, of course, customers will never need to contact the support team at Innovative Technology, as they continue happily with products performing as intended. “A company policy is to ensure all of our products leave the UK head office in the best condition possible,” said Bassam,“having passed numerous quality checks.This ensures that everything, down to the finest detail, is in optimal working condition, minimising the risk of faulty equipment.” The company also offers a comprehensive warranty and maintains the parts and expertise on site to repair older models.“All of our products carry a comprehensive warranty, so customers can feel confident. We offer local repairs and aim to return the product in full working condition as soon as possible.
Upon this date the customer will receive an additional three months warranty for that item.To further assist customers we guarantee to support legacy products in terms of repairs and technical information for a further five years once manufacturing has ceased.” Ultimately, all this time and effort spent on aftersales is good for business.“Excellent customer service is imperative throughout the customer’s journey with Innovative Technology,” said Bassam.“We believe that the quality of service that we provide to all of our customers generates greater positive word of mouth than solely providing ‘good’ aftersales. We truly believe that the aftersales that we provide are not rivalled by any of our competitors, ensuring that our customers generate positive word of mouth and aid in the development of our brand recognition.”
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 07/08/2014 12:25 Page 5
16
B 2 B
Essential Guide to ... After Sales & After Se Market Analysis
Products
OPERATIONS
SUZO-HAPP
The fast track to spares, repairs and service Suzo-Happ continues to bolster its aftersales capabilities, adding new and more varied services in response to customer feeedback. “Suzo-Happ continues to grow its service and support business for UK operators,” said the company’s UK sales director, John Vallis. C “Suzo’s Fast Track Repair (FTR) service is now three and a half years
Off-site repairs a challenge to quality aftersales providers Whilst the quality of aftersales care remains high, components in new machinery are often being replaced off-site, according to one arcade director. ichelle Michael, director at AGM Holdings - which operates the Grand Pier in Weston Super Mare, emphatically emphasises the need for swift post-sales servicing and maintenance of non-functioning gaming units. “From a customer perspective, there is nothing worse than seeing machines switched off,” said Michael, who was particularly sensitive to potential loss of revenue. “From the business angle, these machines are taking up valuable floor space and are earning you nothing.” Weston’s Grand Pier arcade boasts over five-hundred machines, meaning that Michael is no stranger to the need for punctual service. In her experience, the majority of suppliers are getting it right. “Most established companies are very good with their aftersales care,” she said.
M
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
However, Michael notes a trend emerging of newer machines increasingly requiring off-site service.“I’ve found that over the years, companies hold less advanced replacement parts,” she said,“and the solution proposed is to send the entire faulty unit to them for repair”. This, of course, carries it’s own pitfalls.“It can take over a week to get a machine like that back into service,” she said,“I feel that isn’t really acceptable”. How can aftersales providers up their game? Internet-based around the clock tech-support, says Michael.“We’d like to see forums on the major suppliers websites, with fixes for common problems and machine error codes.” The logic behind this is clear: “Most machines go down over the weekend when phone helplines are closed.”
young and we really cannot believe where the time has gone.” The company has continued to evolve and develop its UK Repair service over the past couple of years, from monitor repairs in 2011 right through to today, where it now offers two weekly Van Run services. One on the M4 Corridor from London to Swansea and another across the Midlands. In an attempt to build on its service even further, Suzo-Happ spoke to a large number of single site and arcade operators to find out what it could do to help support these customers. It is clear that there is a large demand for customers not only to have access to over 20,000 spares and accessories, but to also be able to get items repaired by the same company. This saves them time, money and removes the need to hold large stocks of parts on site. “We only ever repair the items a customer sends in,” said Vallis. “This way you know the history of the part which has been repaired and don’t have to worry about where it came from originally. After all, you wouldn’t expect to go into a tyre shop with a puncture and they just swap a wheel out from another car!” In addition to its Van Run service, Suzo-Happ offer free collection and return shipping by UPS couriers for goods to be repaired and has increased the amounts and types of products it can repair to include Coin Acceptors, Note Acceptors, Power Supplies and Video Game Boards to name but a few. The company also provides telephone and on-site support for the change machines and coin/note counting equipment it manufactures and distributes, if required. The company’s customer service and workshop departments provide help and support to customers, giving them a single point of contact for all aspects of repairs, deliveries and product support, further enhancing the customer experience. “Fast Track Repair really compliments our core business of manufacturing and distributing spares, accessories and custom solutions for the amusement, gaming and vending markets,” said Vallis, “which really enables us to provide as much of a one-stop-shop service as possible. We offer a high quality, cost effective repair service to all of our customers regardless of size or location.”
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 07/08/2014 11:40 Page 6
er Service
17
B 2 B
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Future-proofing the Innovative way With new Euro notes on the horizon, Innovative Technology is ready to roll out upgrades to its customers four months ahead of time. Technology’s note validators have once again received European CenItralnnovative Bank (ECB) approval for their ability to recognise genuine and counterfeit Euro banknotes.The NV9 USB, NV10 USB and NV200 banknote validators were all tested at the De Nederlandsche Bank, Amsterdam last month and scored 100 percent for their ability to accept genuine Euro banknotes and reject counterfeit Euro banknotes.The test results are published by the ECB to assist banknote users when selecting appropriate counterfeit detection equipment. Andy Bassam, customer support manager said:“The ECB test results independently acknowledge the reliability of our note validator range. We are constantly
developing our global currency dataset files, adding new issue notes and known frauds, to ensure we maintain our leading acceptance rates across the complete Innovative Technology product range.� Bassam went on to say:“Last month we released Euro dataset files containing the new E10 note, which will enter circulation in September. By releasing these currency files four months before the new E10 enters circulation we aim to ease the burden for operators and manufactures, providing sufficient time to update validators out in the field. Currency datasets are available free from our website and our global technical support team is available to assist customers across Europe.� Elsewhere, the company welcomed
Invites You To
two new members of staff to its expanding team in Barcelona: Raul Clemente, mechanical engineer, and Eduardo Rodriguez, electronics engineer. The two new additions signal the formation of a new Spanish development team that will initially design products solely for the Spanish and Southern European markets. Eduardo joined the ITL team in April, having previously worked as an electrical engineer for a large manufacturer in Spain. Despite his recent employment, Eduardo’s primary background lies in telecommunications, where he has spent the vast majority of his profes-
sional career. Raul has completed a master’s degree in industrial engineering and has since worked in project engineering for several years prior to joining the ITL team in May. Development manager John Robinson commented: “Both Raul and Eduardo bring extensive knowledge with them in their respective expertise.We have been looking to expand our development team in Europe and these appointments allow our team the capacity to investigate the Southern European market further�.
Lady’s Mile Holiday Park
;*7*5 3&) &:0.6- *932 $ $ >
September 17TH and 18TH 2014 From 11:00am - 4:00pm Experience the Embed Cashless System!
Join us at this exclusive event to experience the revenue generating possibilities and flexibility of the EMBED Cashless System for yourself! Registered attendees will receive a Lady’s Mile FUN CARD with credit that can be used in the arcade, bar, fish and chips shop or even the laundry! Come see why Embed is the leading choice for the world’s top holiday parks and family entertainment centres! NAMCO will also be on site presenting their range of game machines, prizes and more! Registration and accomodation available online at www.ladysmile.co.uk.
Ph
Ww www.embedcard.com Em stevenw@embedcard.com
Ph
Ww www.bandainamco-am.co.uk Em sales@bandainamco.co.uk
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 16:16 Page 7
18
B 2 B
Essential Guide to ... After Sales & After Service
Products
Analysis
EMBED
Top up the future of payment Embed’s improvement to the customer experience is built on a card-based system that reduces costs for the operator and time away from the machines for players. mbed is a worldwide supplier of revenue management systems for the amusement,entertainment and leisure industries.As a leader in the market, the company delivers a suite of applications designed to manage all areas of any entertainment facility. Embed focusses on enhancing site revenues through the use of cashless payment systems, value-added packages, and guest loyalty programs. At the heart of its system lies the cashless payment features which are more commonly known in the industry as a ‘card system.’ The Embed system can replace traditional methods of transaction, like tokens and coins, with a simple card. Guests use a plastic card, similar to a credit card, to make all of their transactions, which leads to a much more simplified and more enjoyable experience. Owners benefit from the endless marketing and pricing opportunities that become available, while at the same
E
time containing operating costs and improving cash control. Guests can purchase cards from either a staffed point of sale station or a self-service kiosk.“These cards are customised for your location and become a souvenir as well as a constant reminder of the good times had at your venue,” said sales executive Steven Wooley. The cards can be loaded with any amount of money, encouraging guests to ‘load and go’, stocking up on cash ahead of time.This means that they can enjoy all points of fun offered at the location without having to return for another top-up. To play, the guest swipes their card through the reader attached to each game. The appropriate value is deducted, allowing the game to start. Upon swiping, the remaining card balance is displayed for added convenience. Guests can reload their play card with additional credit at any sales terminal or kiosk at any time.
CATEGORYC (£1/£100 Max.)
CATEGORYB3 (£2/£500 Max.)
Single site
AGCs
This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer
This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
2 1 4 6 3 5 7 8 9 -
DOND Winfall BFG Fiddle a Fortune REF DOND Lucky Streak BFG DOND Powerplay BFG Best of British REF Worminator QPS DOND Time to Play BFG DOND The Big One BFG DOND Crazy Chair Gold BFG DOND Pure Gold 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
Slotto 500 Astra King of Slots Blueprint Triple 8 Barcrest Mega Bars Big Hit Project Coin Magic Lotto Ultra Novomatic Rainbow Riches Community Cash Barcrest Lady Luck Reflex TS22 Project Triple 7 Barcrest Rumple Wild Spins Astra
Based on data supplied by a representative number of UK sites Supplied by RLMS Sales
CATEGORYD (10p/£5 Max.) FEC - family
AGCs This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer
This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 8 5 3 -
Encore T7 (GP3) SG Gaming Encore T7 (GP2) SG Gaming Magic Games 100 Ultra Novomatic Triple 7 (GP1) SG Gaming Bullion Bars Streak Astra Triple 7 (GP3) SG Gaming Hot Spots Deluxe Astra Encore T7 (GP1) SG Gaming Magic Games 3 (s/d) Novomatic World of Poker Project
Based on data from a minimum of 10 locations. Supplied by Praesepe
1 2 3 10 5 6 7 8 9 4
Bullion Bars (3 Player) Astra Party Time Classic (3 Player) Astra Party Games (4 Player) Astra DOND (4 Player) Bellfruit Adders And Ladders(4 Player) Vivid Rainbow Riches (3 Player) Empire Goldrush Stampede (4 Player) Barcrest Party Time Arena (4 Player) Astra Party Time (3 Player) Astra Golden Games (3 Player) Mazooma
Based on data from four sites Amusement Equipment Co Ltd
CATEGORYB4 (£2/£4000 Max) FEC - adult
Members clubs
This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer
This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 5 4 6 9 8 9 10
Magic Games U/R Novomatic Rainbow Riches Party Barcrest Free Play 70 Project Pure Gold Project Find The Lady 70 Project Party Time Arena (4 Player) Astra Win Wall Celebrity Astra Bar X Diamonds 7 Electrocoin Win Wall Celebrity Astra Party Time Player Astra
Taken from a representative number of sites around the UK Supplied by Amusement Equipment Co Ltd
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
1 2 3 4 5
1 2 3 4 5
Alice Queen of Hearts Reflex Jackpot 100 Barcrest DOND Live BFG Street Casino 2014 Storm Flamin’ 400 Reflex
Based on data from representative sites. Supplied by sector professional
2380-p12-19-Essential_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 16:19 Page 8
Sponsored by
19
MARKETPLACE
B2B Amusements
B2B Cash Handling
JNC SALES
NOVOMATIC LEADS, OTHERS FOLLOW
B 2 B
“Let’s talk about it” 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
COIN AND BANK NOTE EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE 360Cash is an independent maintenance service provider on a wide range of cash handling equipment. We have fully trained engineers located throughout the UK who can provide service on a call-out basis. Alternatively our central repairs centre can offer a ‘back to bench’ repair service on a range of manufacturer’s cash handling equipment. PROCOIN
SCAN COIN
GLORY
CURRENCY TECH
DE LA RUE
MAGNER
Tel: 01270 211565
We also supply cash handling equipment
Email: admin@360cash.co.uk www.360cash.co.uk
B2B Change Machines
FILMCHARTS UK Box Office Chart
jcrompton@namco.co.uk
This Last Week Week Name
HERCULES
http://www.sound net.net/ www.soundnet.net
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 3 8 6 -
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes Hercules The Purge: Anarchy How to Train Your Dragon 2 Transformers: Age of Extinction Earth to Echo Boyhood Kick Mrs Brown's Boys D'Movie The House of Magic
www.namco.co.uk
Tel: 020 8391 7700 Fax: 020 8391 7760 Email: sales@suzohapp.co.uk www.suzohapp.co.uk
B2B Finance We buy and sell all gaming equipment with over 400 units in stock - From Pool-tables to Fruit machines we have it all.
For the best prices please call us today
Tel: 01795 844 169
MUSICCHARTS
Email: Stuart@starleisure.biz
UK Jukebox Chart
B2B Arcade Crane Services
Highest Earning Tracks on Sound Leisure jukeboxes This Last Week Week
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
3 1 2 4 5 8 6 7 9
Budapest George Ezra Waves (Robin Schulz Remix) Mr Probz Ghost Ella Henderson Hideaway Kiesza Rude Magic! Sing Ed Sheeran It's My Birthday Will.I.Am feat. Cody Wise Stay With Me Sam Smith Summer Calvin Harris Happy Pharrell Williams
Based on data supplied by Soundnet
“Great range of Change Machines available”
www.thewon.co.uk
Amusement and Gaming Equipment Finance with Rates from 3.1%
Immediate Funds Available 98% Acceptance Rate
Tel: 0844 800 88 25 B2B Bingo
info@portmanassetfinance.co.uk www.portmanassetfinance.co.uk
Albums B2B Gaming Machines
This Last Week Week
ERIC CLAPTON & FRIENDS - THE BREEZE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 3 4 5 7
X Ed Sheeran Blue Smoke - The Best Of Dolly Parton Eric Clapton & Friends - The Breeze Eric Clapton In The Lonely Hour Sam Smith Wanted on Voyage George Ezra Ghost Stories Coldplay Hypnotic Eye Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Welcome To The Jungle Neon Jungle Nothing But The Beat David Guetta Caustic Love Paolo Nuitini
Downloads
B2B Carpets & Flooring
This Last Week Week
ZHU: FADED
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
2 1 4 6 3 7 -
Rude Magic Crazy Stupid Love Cheryl Cole ft Tinie Tempah Faded Zhu Ghost Elle Henderson Budapest George Ezra Kisses For Breakfast Melissa Steel ft Popcaan Hopeful Bars & Melody Boom Clap Charli XCX Problem Ariana Grande ft Iggy Azalea One Day(Vandaag) Bakermat
www.antrimcarpets.com
info@antrimcarpets.com Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
2380-p20-21-Listings_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 17:18 Page 1
20
B 2 B
MARKETPLACE
B2B Gaming Machines
B2B Gaming Machines
Listings
We first pu
Rescuing space invaders Classic coin-op video machines housed in Cambridge’s UK Computer Museum are to be restored by eager enthusiasts, following a call for volunteers. Titles such as Space Invaders, Asteroids and Tempest are to undergo repairs work over the coming months.
B2B Juke Box Specialists
POOL
Playing pool the right way kim@arionmusic.co.uk
Jason Jarrett of Automatic Machine Services (AMS) explains how pool can successfully competes for the British public’s highly sought after leisure spend. oinslot: How important is it to keep pool tables properly serviced and maintained? Jason Jarrett: All pool tables supplied by AMS are regularly visited by one of our specialised pool valet team,where the top frame is lifted, the bed-cloth and cushions are brushed and cleaned, the baulk-line is re-marked, the ball drawer is checked, coin mech cleaned, cues tipped and the level of the table is checked.This keeps the pool table in top condition, which is paramount for any customer who has teams who play in local leagues.Any other faults are attended to by our service technicians seven days a week. However, pool
C
SOUNDNET THE DIGITAL JUKEBOX SPECIALISTS
tables are probably one of the most reliable products, due to their simplicity. CS: What kind of events can operators organise to create interest in their pool products? JJ: Throughout the year AMS encourages customers to hold ‘free pool nights’ to encourage extra footfall on quieter evenings. In addition,‘speed pool’ tournaments or games of ‘killer’ on a Sunday afternoon can all be organised to encourage regulars to spend more time in the venue and of course spend more money at the bar. All of these options are simple to set up and show the diversity of such a stable part of
CALL TOBY: 07970 229124 CALL JAMES: 07836 233176 FOR ALL YOUR JUKE NEEDS & QUERIES www.soundnet.net
GAME DEVOPMENT
B2B Kiddie Rides
...our business is child’s play!
Family FUN...
For Everyone! www.worldofrides.com
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
GAMES AHOY FOR BLUEPRINT brand new title from Blueprint Gaming is now available through A exclusive distributor PW Sales. Let’s Get Kraken is the latest release from the successful game design studio, featuring a piratical motif which is sure to appeal to a wide variety of potential players. As they
work towards the jackpot, players must battle against the terrifying sea creature on behalf of their swashbuckling allies. As with all Blueprint products, the game will be available both online and offline. This means that players looking to carry on
2380-p20-21-Listings_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 17:19 Page 2
21
MARKETPLACE
B2B Marketing
B2B Skill Ball Deluxe
Get great PR from the industry experts
first put the game out on a test towards the end of 2013. Since then, it’s performance has been consistently superb.
S&J communications
For a quote call Chris Jones +44 (0)1273 699900 ! # """ !
gaming | betting | gambling
B2B Novelty
B2B Soft Toys & Redemption
JOHN MCLOUGHLIN, SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR, BELL FRUIT GAMES, ON THE ONGOING SUCCESS OF IT'S LATEST DEAL OR NO DEAL WINFALL CAT C MACHINE.
www.zoltaruk.com
B2B Pool Supplies THE HIGHEST EARNING POOL, AIR HOCKEY AND FOOTBALL TABLES
the coin-op industry. CS: What are the key factors that have helped pool to remain popular in the face of more modern forms of entertainment? JJ:Pool is a traditional,timeless pub game that is popular with a wide range of ages and both sexes.Although the tables can take up a large floor-space, the return in entertainment value and income can normally justify its existence, which, as mentioned previously, will add the other areas of the business for the venue.While the digital revolution gathers more and more pace, I doubt there will be anything to replicate or replace a good old game of pool down the pub!
the fun can do so from the comfort of their own home, while those looking for the thrill of playing their favourite game in the flesh can head down to their local venue for an altogether different experience.
TABLET PLUSTAB A PLUS FOR OPERATORS
W
exel Gaming’s advanced tablet system continues to save operators
valuable floor space, while providing them with exciting linked bingo and gaming machine content. The PlusTab is designed to fit in between existing machines or to be used as a handheld device. This enables players to walk around the venue to play bingo, Cat C or Cat D games to their heart’s content. The machine takes advantage of the powerful BLIS system, which packs a huge amount of game content onto a single device. Those operators looking to operate costeffectively will find plenty of Cat D titles available, allowing the to pay the lower five percent rate of Machine Games Duty.
CATEGORY B3 SLOTTO 500 ON THE BOOKS FOR RLMS LMS Sales is preparing to field orders for Astra’s R wildly popular Slotto £500. The experienced suppliers are offering the machine for just £3,995. Stock with 22 different games, Astra’s latest creation is designed to appeal to a wide range of players. This B3 product is one 2014’s leading machines and has quickly become RLMS’s best selling model of the last three years. The games are housed in the FV762 cabinet, which features an illuminated top box and belly glass to help it stand out amongst the crowd. The machine comes fitted as standard with a NV11 note recycler from Innovative Technology, giving the machine the ability to hold up to 30 boats in a single float.
B2B Spares *The only Official Cromptons Machines Spares supplier*
www.cromptons-spares.co.uk
T 024 7646 1234 F 024 7646 4433
sales@samleisure.co.uk sales@samleisure.co.uk
www.samleisure.co.uk www.samleisure.co.uk
B2B Pool Tables & Accessories
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
Distributor of snooker and pool accessories and manufacturers of genuine Superleague tables and spares.
s 07442 491384 eric_lewis_mbs@btconnect.com
B2B Prizes
FOR ALL YOUR SPARES LAI GAME
sega.prize@sega.co.uk
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
Next week’s feature is Bowling Alley & Cineplexes To advertise, please call Kathryn on 01204 396397
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
B 2 B
Classified
Crown Direct Data Leisure JNC Sales
22 23 23
To advertise: Contact Kathryn Norris on 01204 396 397
For Sale
PARTY TIME CLASSIC 3 PLY BULLION BARS CLASSIC CRAIC IN FUN 3 PLY BANK RAID 3 PLY RAINBOW KING 3 PLY DEAL OR NO DEAL 3 PLY
ÂŁ8,495 ÂŁ8,495 ÂŁ5,995 ÂŁ4,750 ÂŁ3,995 ÂŁ3,495
Cat B3 ÂŁ2 Stake T8 PERFORMER 22 KING OF SLOTS VISION REVOLVER MEGA 7 / D&J / MEGA BARS SLOTTO 500 CASINO KING SLANT HOT HOT 500 MEGA GAMES SLANT LADY LUCK JACKPOT KING RAINBOW KING GAMBLE KING
ÂŁ7,995 ÂŁ7,995 ÂŁ6,995 ÂŁ5,995 ÂŁ4,495 ÂŁ3,995 ÂŁ2,995 ÂŁ2,495 5 ÂŁ1,995 5 ÂŁ1,295 5 ÂŁ995 5 ÂŁ995 5 ÂŁ995 5
ÂŁ2 K
ER
E
Redemption WIZARD OF OZ 2 PLY TICKET MONSTER HARPOON LAGOON CONNECT 4 MINI GOAL LINE RUSH SINK IT SINGLE DEAL OR NO DEAL DOODLE JUMP
ÂŁ13,495 ÂŁ8,995 ÂŁ7,995 ÂŁ6,995 ÂŁ6,495 ÂŁ6,195 ÂŁ3,495 ÂŁ2,995
THIS WEEKS STAR BUY LOCOMOTION 3 PLAYER ÂŁ70 CAT C
0117 938 2552 IS IS IN R C E D TW M TI ST 3
45 0
10P ÂŁ5 MULTI-PLAYERS
TRANSFORMERS THEATRE ÂŁ11,995 SUPER ALPINE RACER TWIN ÂŁ11,995 DEAD STORM PIRATES ÂŁ7,995 SUPER ALPINE RACER SGL ÂŁ6,495 RAZING STORM ÂŁ3,995 TERMINATOR SALVATION ÂŁ3,495
ÂŁ1
SWEET FALLS COIN/TKT ÂŁ18,495 MERRY GO ROUND COIN/TKT ÂŁ16,995 BIG PRIZE WINNER ÂŁ4,995 R/R SHOOT TO WIN 2PLY ÂŁ3,995 SALSA ÂŁ2,495
I AR IN R R TW FE 55 F3
ON
Video
Pushers
0117 938 2552 ST
New & Used Machine Prices
LA
TEL: 01706 847531
email: sales@whittakers.co.uk web: www.whittakers.co.uk
0!
WHITTAKER BROTHERS GROUP
RUTLAND WAY, LINNEY LANE, SHAW, OLDHAM, LANCS OL2 8HE
NG A CI ASM A R L RD � P O F 50 X DL
UN D
7(9; ,?*/(5.,: >,3*64, Â&#x2039; (33 790*,: 73<: =(; +,30=,9@
TEL 01772 816677 EMAIL SALES@PINBALL.CO.UK
50
CE ON @O<R OL+ 6 OR 8 PLA@ER P<SHER <P TO ÂŁ1500 ALLOWAN
PINBALL HEAVEN LTD
PARTS/REPAIRS/ACCESORIES & SERVICE MACHINES BOUGHT & SOLD LARGE STOCK OF PINBALL PARTS ALWAYS AVAILABLE
ÂŁ1
A<G<ST SPEC0AL OFFERS
QUALITY USED EQUIPMENT FROM WHITTAKERS
B 2 B
QUALITY USED EQUIPMENT FROM WHITTAKERS
22
0117 938 2552
ONLY
ÂŁ2,995 +VAT
/LFHQVLQJ IRU \RXU EXVLQHVV DW SULFHV \RX FDQ DIIRUG &DOO 'HEELH +RXJK RQ
To Advertise
ZZZ FKDWWHUWRQV FRP
All prices subject to VAT and Carriage
contact Kathryn Norris
gaming...and so much more!
VDOHV#FURZQGLUHFW FR XN
VDOHV#GHLWKOHLVXUH FRP O #G LWKO L
Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
on 01204 396 397 Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. SRA No 44948. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority
UNIT 1, CCT BUILDINGS, GREENSPLOTT ROAD, CHITTENING TRADING ESTATE, AVONMOUTH, BRISTOL. BS11 0YB 777 *.# 3!,%3 #/ 5+ s 3!,%3 *.# 3!,%3 #/ 5+
TEL: 0117 9382552 AFTERSALES TEL: 0117 9382225
B A R G A I NB A S E M E N T K ONLY PRICES VALID FOR 1 WEE
FORKLIFT
CYCLONE
£795 DDR FUSION
(ICE)
£795
GUITAR HERO (KONAMI)
£1,995
£1,595
SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS
SPIDER STOMPIN
DANCE STAGE EUROMIX 2
£1,695
(CHICAGO GAMING)
£995
(ISLAND DESIGN)
£495
DANCE STAGE EUROMIX 1
£1,595
WONDERWHEEL
(BAYTEK ROLLDOWN)
WHEEL A WIN (ICE)
£1,995
CASH CASINO (ELAUT)
£495
£995
DDR SUPERNOVA
GALILEO MARK 1 TICKET EATER
£2,495
£1,595
HOOP FEVER
(ELMAC)
(ICE) (TICKET)
£695
ALL MACHINES ARE FULLY WORK SHOPPED
MANY MORE MACHINES AVAILABLE FOR SPEEDY DELIVERY
CALL US ON
ALL MACHINES COME WITH 28 DAY WARRANTY AND FULL AFTERSALES SUPPORT IF REQUIRED
DATA LEISURE SALES LTD. Unit 12 Data House, Trent Industrial Estate, Duchess Street, Shaw, Oldham, OL2 7UT REFLEX GAMING £100 WIZARD OF ODDS ...................................... £2,225 HOT SHOT ................................................. £2,225 FIDDLE A FORTUNE ................................... £2,225 EASTERN PROMISE .................................... £2,225 LETS GET JACKPOTTED ............................. £1,595 LL TRAIL OF RICHES .................................. £1,395 SNOW WHITE & 7 TENNERS ...................... £1,295 JACKPOT ISLAND....................................... £1,150 DOUBLE AGENT ......................................... £1,095 PAYMAKER ................................................ £1,050 ALICE IN WONDERLAND ................................ £895 BELLFRUIT GAMES ROB THE LOT............................................. £1,695 PURE GOLD ............................................... £1,595 MILLIONAIRES ROW ................................... £1,350 BULLSEYE ON THE OCHE ........................... £1,150 JAILBREAK................................................. £1,100 BANK JOB GOING FOR GOLD ..................... £1,100 DOND GO ALL THE WAY ............................ £1,050 MONOPOLY TAKEOVER .............................. £1,050 COPS STREETWISE ....................................... £995 FAMILY GUY DRUNKEN CLAM ....................... £995 BANK ON IT .................................................. £895 SHOOT THE LOOT ......................................... £895 RIGHT DEAL RIGHT TIME............................... £795 RED HOT DOND ............................................ £795 PERFECT DEAL ............................................. £795 MAKE OR BREAK .......................................... £795 QUIDS IN AMERICA ....................................... £795
EASTERN PROMISE
// 1 WEEK ONLY // 1 WEEK ONLY // 1 WEEK ONLY //
// 1 WEEK ONLY // 1 WEEK ONLY // 1 WEEK ONLY //
JNC SALES
0117 938 2552
D L
S
Data Leisure Sales
£70 MACHINES DIAMOND GEEZER ........................................ £295 DOND LETS PLAY ......................................... £245 DOND MEGA ................................................. £245 DOND GAME ON ........................................... £245 DOND GOLD ................................................. £245 STAR WARS DEATH STAR ............................. £195 DUBLIN YOUR MONEY ................................... £195 ON THE FIDDLE............................................. £195 TAKE IT OR LEAVE ........................................ £150 CRAZY TRAILS ............................................. £150 PACMAN POWER UP ..................................... £145 CLUB B4 DOND LIVE......................................................POA LETS GET JACKPOTTED ............................. £1,895 ALICE QUEEN OF HEARTS .......................... £1,595 £5 MACHINES DOND GOLD ................................................. £275 DOND MEGA ................................................. £275 POOL 7X4 TOURNAMENT ....................................... £795 6X3 TOURNAMENT ....................................... £795
WIZARD OF ODDS POOL (USED) 7X4 TOURNAMENT ...................................... £345 7X4 PRINCE .................................................. £345 7X4 MAYFAIR................................................ £265 7X4 REGENCY ............................................... £265 7X4 BEACH ................................................... £265
DELIVERIES TO ANYWHERE IN THE UK & IRELAND
Contact Karl or Steve on Tel: 01706 883838. Fax: 01706 883839. E-mail: karl@dataleisuresales.co.uk Coinslot AUGUST 8 - AUGUST 14, 2014
23
B 2 B
SURREAL SOCCER.
THERE’S NO FANTASY ABOUT A £1,000 TOP PRIZE
2014/15 season features £1000 top prize Two cup competitions New mini leagues Two transfer windows
Early Bird rates Two teams for £10 for entries received by 4th September 2014 £10 per team thereafter
Closing date 18th September 2014.
New format for 2014/15 season
More Winners, more prizes, more chance to win!
Contact Marc Lawton on mlawton@gbmedia.eu or 01204 396397 to register your interest
2380-p26-27-Comment_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 14:22 Page 1
26
Coinslot August 8 - August 14, 2014
Comment Banging the drum for seaside fun
“
“I do like to be beside the seaside. Do you?”
alex lee comment o another pier, or at least pier-based arcade, bites the dust in spectacular fashion. I’m sad for all concerned, not least Dean Harding, Crown’s MD, who I respect and have a lot of time for. Still, hopefully the £2m on offer from the government will go some way towards restoring it to its former glory. The proposed cash injection for Eastbourne in the wake of the devastating fire was revealed just as news broke that a further 10 seaside coin-op strongholds are to receive funding for various sustainable restorative projects. As far as I’m concerned this can only be a good thing for the nearby arcade operators. Clearly, it would have been nice if the government had bunged the cash smack bang in the direction of the arcades, but we have to be realistic about such things. At least if towns possess the financial resources to actively strive for greater footfall, the knock-on effect of more people coming through the arcades’ doors should see some sort of positive impact on cashbox levels. All of which brings me nicely to my annual appeal for seaside support coming from within. I mentioned a while ago that ‘we’ (as in us UK residents) can all do our bit in stimulating growth in
S
the coin-op sector simply by supporting British coastal resorts by actually visiting them and spending a bit of money there now and then. While our non-industry friends and family must be implored to do the same,we can set a good example by littering our Facebook pages and Twitter feeds with pictures and stories about what brilliant times we’ve had down the pub, at the bingo, in the arcade, the bowling alley or wherever. Let’s face it, other forms of entertainment are only ‘better’ insamuch as they promote and advertise themselves more proactively than we do. Yes, it costs a load of cash to assemble a huge media campaign these days, but we all know that nothing beats good old ‘word of mouth’ for effective promotion. In recent years I’ve spent both time and money at the following coin-op strongholds - Blackpool, Brighton, Rhyl,Whitby,Weymouth, St Anne’s,Scarborough,Southport, South Shields (and, dare I say it, Sunderland). I’ve also been quick to bang on to anyone who’ll listen about how great they are, with their long-established arcades and FECs being an integral part of their charm and character. Can everyone else reading this claim to have done the same?
Opposition announces new sp alex lee
In the latest industryhas been sold to Bow arcade in Londonde
media watch Party is proposing tax on sports betting, Twhichhea newLabour sent shares in William Hill
general pool to help grassroots sport and from which the respective sports would draw their future elite sportsmen and and Ladbrokes into freefall last women. Football gambling week, according to the Finanonline and in betting shops is cial Times. now far larger than horseracing Under the new plans, outgambling and yet it does nothing lined in a document issued by Harriet Harman, shadow culture to help the sport itself. I think they have a moral obligation to secretary, and shadow sports help the industry from which minister Clive Efford, the extra funds would go to support prob- they make billions, and the results could be dramatic.” lem gamblers and ‘grassroots’ The betting industry was sports. understandably unimpressed by At present only gambling on the proposals, claiming that it horseracing is subject to a levy already pays tax on its profits. with the money, £82m in 2014, However, sport governing returned to the racing industry. bodies argue that their tournaEfford said: “We believe it is right that businesses that make ments are intellectual properties and that bookmakers should money from sport should contribute to sport. We are consult- pay for the right to take bets on such events. ing on whether we should Sports other than horse and introduce a levy on betting, including online betting, to fund greyhound racing are estimated to contribute about 40 gambling awareness and supper cent of the bookmakers’ port for problem gambling but gross win in stores and about also to improve community 70 per cent online. A widening sports facilities and clubs. of the levy could therefore “It’s my preference that the income from the levy went into a affect about a fifth of their rev-
enues, said analysts. Labour’s proposals suggest that gambling restrictions will be a key platform in next year’s general election, particularly as The Responsible Gambling Trust’s industry study is due for publication around party conference season in September. William Hill fell 4.3 per cent to 339p. Ladbrokes was 4.9 per cent lower at 132.3p. Elsewhere, Brunswick Corp is selling its retail bowling business to Bowlmor AMF for $270m, and plans to divest its bowling products business, according to The Vending Times. The sale to Bowlmor is expected to close before the end of October. Bowlmor AMF approached the company with an unsolicited bid at an “attractive price,” according to Brunswick chief executive Dustan E. McCoy, who said the sale is in the best interest of the company’s shareholders. The decision to sell comes at a time when the bowling industry itself is undergoing a dramatic transi-
2380-p26-27-Comment_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 14:22 Page 2
Coinslot August 8 - August 14, 2014
“Tenpin bowling locations are a primary setting for coin machine operations, so major movements in that sector are of considerable interest to the amusement industry. That Brunswick is getting out of tenpin bowling asks many questions of a sector that has struggled in recent years.”
8
27
TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE
Email: al@sjc.co.uk
DAVID SNOOK, INTERGAME
“ ”
quote unquote “According to an industry survey, only 30 per cent of mobile gambling revenue is new/additional revenue for operators.” TED MENMUIR, SBC NEWS
“A hacker in Australia has reportedly reconfigured an ATM to play the first-person shooter videogame Doom. A YouTube user who goes by the name Aussie50 said he installed the 1993 game’s software on an ATM and configured the buttons to work as controls. The newly configured system, which includes sound, seems to provide a fully functional video game.” HANK SCHLESINGER, VENDING TIMES
“Ladbrokes has employed a leading design agency in a bid to create a betting experience for the digital age. Ladbrokes is keen to differentiate its stores from the myriad on the high street with a number of innovations including digital signage, free in-store wi-fi, mobile device chargers and the creation of a ‘social hub’ in the centre of the shop where punters can watch live sports. There are even plans afoot to waft in the smell of turf to create an authentic atmosphere.” STEPH NORBURY, COIN-OP COMMUNITY
ew sports betting tax
atest industry-related news, Labour has proposed a new tax on sports betting, Brunswick en sold to Bowlmor and progress has been made on a planned new amusement e in Londonderry.
tion from a once predominantly league sport to a casual activity in which bowlers are seeking an entertainment experience. “For Brunswick to drive growth in this business,” said McCoy, “it would take continual development of new entertainment concepts and significant additional investment to implement these new concepts at new properties or to convert existing centres.” Brunswick believes that investing in its Marine and Fitness businesses, which together represented 92 per cent of the company’s net revenues in 2013, offers greater opportunities for returns. Brunswick owned ValleyDynamo LP, the leading coin-op table game maker, between 2003 and 2009, selling it to Dallas-based Champion Shuffleboard Ltd for an undisclosed sum. With the addition of Brunswick’s locations, New York City-based Bowlmor AMF will increase its centre count to 343 in North America. “Bowlmor AMF’s primary
Bitcoin continues to polarise opinion
strategic objective is to invest in and grow its retail bowling business, which includes proven entertainment concepts in certain of its centres,” said McCoy. With its bowling centres operation sold, Brunswick is hoping to find a buyer for its bowling products business. It would like the eventual purchaser to retain manufacturing operations and the products division’s workforce. In the meantime, McCoy assured, it is business as usual division-wide. Brunswick became an equipment supplier to the bowling industry in 1890, but did not run bowling centres until the 1960s - the beginning of the bowling bust. Too many centres had been built, and many had trouble paying Brunswick for pinsetters and lanes it had installed. When bowling facilities went out of business, Brunswick found it easier and cheaper to take over the operations than to remove the setters. It became the second-
largest bowling centre operator, running centres under the name Brunswick or keeping the original brands intact. The newer Brunswick Zones feature amusement (including billiards) and redemption centres, among other attractions. And finally, SB Developments has applied for permission to convert part of a bingo hall in Londonderry city centre to an extended amusement arcade, according to the Londonderry Sentinel. The application relates to premises at 1 and 2 Bank Place. Planners and councillors are being asked to approve the application for a “part change of use from bingo hall to extension to amusement arcade.”
As the crypto-currency Bitcoin continues to weather controversy, entrepreneurs are hoping that the use of Bitcoins will gain a foothold in the online gambling industry, according to business commentator Bryan Levy.
bryan levy politics n the heels of a scandal that continues to shake the struggling digO ital currency, one important e-commerce company has banned Bitcoin, and a US court has stopped the sale of a major Bitcoin trading site. Though shaken, enthusiasts and business people still hope that Bitcoin can find a home in online gaming. After the February implosion of Bitcoin trading site Mt. Gox, the crypto-currency seemed on the edge of failure. Bitcoin was created in 2009,and by December of 2013,each was worth a record $1,151. In February, Mt. Gox, a website created to sell“Magic:The Gathering”cards that had become one of the largest Bitcoin traders, reported that the trading of Bitcoins had been hacked,and shut down all trading.After that, the value of Bitcoins was more than halved. On February 25, the day that Mt. Gox announced they would halt all transactions,Bitcoins were worth around $534. Their lowest value since the collapse of Mt.Gox was around $360 in April.Today, Bitcoins are worth around $598.Now,an auction of Mt.Gox-related site Bitcoins.com that was scheduled for last week has been postponed. Bitcoins.com,a website owned by Mt. Gox’s former CEO Mark Karpeles, was scheduled to have its domain name auctioned off by Heritage Auctions.The court order halting the sale comes from a lawsuit in which Mt. Gox is involved against former partner company, CoinLab. CoinLab asserts that Mt. Gox still owes money to the company,and by selling this domain name and other assets,Mt.Gox will avoid giving CoinLab the money that is owed. Marsha Pechman, a US federal judge, agrees, and granted an order delaying the auction for 14 days. Along with the hit that Bitcoin’s
popularity took in the wake of the Mt. Gox scandal, it has recently been banned by influential internet payment service Neteller.Located on the Isle of Man,Neteller is one of the leaders in digital currency transactions, specifically when it comes to the online gambling industry.The Isle of Man itself has become a centre for Bitcoin commerce, and while other companies have made no moves to ban Bitcoin, and in fact are embracing it, the island is making moves to regulate the digital currency so the island can capitalise on it. Though Neteller has moved to ban Bitcoin, other companies have taken to the digital currency. In the US, the World Poker Network has joined with Betcoin Poker to create a Bitcoin-dedicated poker room for players.Players deposit Bitcoins into the site’s system, converting them into US dollars immediately and having no trouble withdrawing funds when ready.This could either become a huge problem or a nice boon for the Bitcoin industry.As Bitcoin users lose places to make their digital transactions, they could turn to these poker sites as a method of just changing their Bitcoins to dollars and cashing out of the system. Conversely, this could also bring people into Bitcoins, providing an entry point through the poker sites. Of course, there is a chance that Bitcoin could prove too popular, and paint itself into the corner of being only for gambling,failing to reach the mainstream at all. As commerce turns increasingly online,the troubled digital currency Bitcoin rests its hopes on online gambling. While the online gambling industry may be Bitcoin’s saviour, there is also the chance for online gambling to force Bitcoin into a niche, keeping it out of the mainstream.
2380-p28-newsweek_Coinslot NEW 05/08/2014 14:35 Page 1
28
Coinslot August 8 - August 14, 2014
Newsweek VEGAS DRAW aming giant Novomatic has confirmed its attendance at the upcoming G2E in Las Vegas, with the company looking to demonstrate the results of its increased focus on both North and South America. This is the first full business year since Novomatic announced the creation of a US-based team, with the staff in Florida and Illinois forming the core of the company’s local operators. The 2014 edition of G2E Las Vegas will take place from 30 September to 2 October, with Novomatic preparing to display a variety of new products, including the Novo Linet Interactive presentations and CoolfireT II range.
G
8
TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE
Email: jw@sjc.co.uk
Keeping customers happy eaching businesses how to please customers at every step is the aim for Europe’s Customer Festival which is preparing for its 2014 edition.The multisector marketplace expo is descending on London’s Business Design Centre next month. The event has been running for 13 years, with a focus on all aspects of the customer journey with a
T
SPECIAL BEGE TICKETS ON SALE NOW embers of the gaming and amusement industries are being encouraged to book their Special Visitor Packages for the Balkan Entertainment and Gaming Expo (BEGE). A
M
special rate is available for these tickets, which also include entry to the Eastern European Gaming Summit. The summit takes place from the 20-21 October, 2014 and will provide attendees the opportunity to meet business leaders from East and South Eastern Europe.
new-found focus on leisure, tourism and entertainment. Over 1,000 customerfocussed executives from a variety of different sectors will be on hand to share their expertise, with over 40 workshops, roundtables and intimate fireside chats planned for the two day event. Europe’s Customer festival is scheduled to take place between 9-10 Sep-
tember, 2014. The show promises to allow for 15 hours of networking time, with the coin-op industry able to benefit from insights into good customer practices, leisure strategies and new payment technology. Among the many confirmed attendees for the show are representatives from pub retailer Greene King and online betting company, Betsson.
EDITORIAL Editor: Alex Lee Email: al@sjc.co.uk Tel: 07772 280 299 Assistant Editor: James Walker Email: jw@sjc.co.uk Tel: 07816678021 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 MARKETING Marketing Executive: Emilie Beau Tel: 01204 396 397 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
Meanwhile, BEGE’s seventh annual event begins on 21 October, 2014 and concludes a day later. Both events are scheduled to take place in Bulgaria’s Inter Expo Center, where one lucky attendee will win a free spa holiday at the Park Hotel Olymp in Velingrad.
Calendar AUGUST 2014 12-14 Australasian Gaming Expo Sydney Exhibition Centre, Sydney, Australia www.austgamingexpo.com
SEPTEMBER 2014 2-4 Entertainment Arena Expo, Romexpo Fair Ground, Bucharest, Romania www.earena.ro 2-4 Playfair at SALTEX 2014 Royal Windsor Racecourse, Windsor, UK www.playfairuk.com
23-25 Euro Attractions Show, RAI Exhibition Centre, Amsterdam, Netherlands www.iaapa.org/eas 24 Bingo Association Golf Day and associated dinner Redditch, Worcestershire www.bingo-association.co.uk
30-2 LIW 2014 NEC, Birmingham, UK www.liw.co.uk
OCTOBER 7-9 Brand Licensing Europe Olympia, London, UK www.brandlicensing.eu
15-16 The Autumn Coin Op Show Chelsea Football Club, London, UK www.coin-opshow.co.uk 15-16 Kiosk London Expo & Digital Signage London Expo Barbican Centre, London, UK www.kiosklondon.co.uk / www.digitalsignagelondon.co.uk
15-17 ENADA Rome Rome Expo Centre, Rome, Italy www.enada.it 16-17 Surexpo Expo XXI Centre, Warsaw, Poland www.wigortargi.com
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.