Coinslot digital 2413 by GB Media Corporation

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March 27 – April 2, 2015 • No. 2413 • www.coinslot.co.uk

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COINSLOT

Industry news Seaside amusements Category B3 report Latest machine charts B2B Listings Classified ads and opps Comment & Analysis Newsweek

INDUSTRY

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The issue that we have is that we do have players who would like to play at higher stakes and they don’t understand (and neither do I) why it is possible to play with higher stakes on one side of the high street and not on the other... 7

Budget 2015 - the in BUDGET 2015

The chancellor has spoken, and shown some appreciation for the plight of pubs and of small business. But has he missed a trick through oversight of the potential of the UK tourist industry?

or the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA), Budget 2015 proved something of a mixed bag. “BALPPA was heartened by business-friendly measures announced in George Osborne’s budget, including cutting Corporation Tax and abolishing employers’ National Insurance Contributions (NICs) for under 21s,” surmised the association’s chief executive officer Paul Kelly. “We were disappointed, however, that cutting VAT on tourism has again been overlooked.” BALPPA is a supporter of the Cut Tourism VAT campaign, which seeks a reduction in VAT from 20 to 5 per cent on service fees for UK tourist attractions, accommodation and restaurants. Such a move would, the organisation argues, create an additional 80,000 new jobs, as well as

drive an additional £4bn in annual tourism revenue. “We hope that in 2016, the Chancellor, whoever he or she may be, will look again at this policy which could then begin delivering a return on investment within the next Parliament,” Kelly added. When it comes to manufacturing, the“business-friendly”measures to which Kelly alludes hold some specific sway. “The Annual Investment Allowance was previously set at £500,000 until 31 December 2015 when it falls back to £25,000,” explained Quentin Stott,owner and director of gaming manufacturer Reflex Games. “It was good news that this was not adjusted, and that the chancellor conceded that a return to the old rate ‘would not be remotely acceptable’.” There is one major potential sticking point - as Stott notes:

Gambling Business Group claim B INDUSTRY BODIES

ick Harding was full of praise for last week’s Budget. Speaking in his capacity as chairman of the Gambling Business Group - whose members account for close to 70 per cent of Gross Gaming Yield in the UK - he described the new economic measures as “good for both business and for the man on the street - capitalising on stronger growth, the fastest

growing economy in the developed world and lower inflation.” Hailing wider business advantages - such as the 20 per cent rate of corporation tax and the exemption of NI contributions for employees under the age of 21 - Harding also zeroed in on specific benefits to UK gambling providers. “From an industry perspective, no increase in gambling taxes is clearly very helpful and will in turn help drive

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LEISURE

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Park Resorts keep focus on cutting edge amusements 12

B3 pushing hard for fairer gaming

7 March 27 - April 2, 2015 • No. 2413 • www.coinslot.co.uk

the industry responds Budget steers wide berth from key industry issues

and assumes the Tories win the election.” The penny off beer-duty seemed to provide more stable grounds for industry celebration. “We are pleased that the government listened to the calls of the pub sector and made its third cut in beer duty in this year’s Budget,” remarkedToby Hoyte,marketing manager at jukebox content developer Soundnet.“We hope that this measure will ease the pressure on this sector and slow down any further closures, as well as protecting jobs.” Gamestec commercial director Peter Davies also voiced his support.“The British pub is at the very heartland of Gamestec’s business, and so any Budget measures that ease the commercial burdens on the sector are going to be well received,” he commented.“That little bit extra will give our customers more confidence and flexibility with their discretionary spend which,

in turn, should result in higher wet sales and, crucially for Gamestec, increased machine income.” Finally, the concept of the ‘balanced recovery’ proved something of a key underlying theme during the chancellor’s address to parliament. “Britain’s manufacturing output has grown more than four and a half times faster than it did in the entire decade before the crisis,” he stated.“And over the last year,the North grew faster than the South.” Fine words indeed - but is this ‘balance’ borne out on the ground? “A re-balancing of regional economical disparity is welcome news,”BALPPA’s Paul Kelly responded. “But we would encourage George Osborne to recognise that any goal to create a balanced recovery could be aided by investing and supporting the tourism economy.We are driving UK growth - predicted to grow 3.8% annually to 2025 - and we operate across the length and breadth of the country,including being key to unlocking prosperity in many deprived areas.” For Kelly, there are political inroads to be made for those willing and able to recognise the potential of the UK tourist trade. “Osborne made few mentions of tourism in his budget yesterday,” he concluded.“We would encourage all parties to look at the opportunities.”

p claim Budget ‘good for business’ growth and investment in the UK gaming entertainment sector.” He said. “Overall, the ‘Man on the Clapham Omnibus’ must be pleased, and the budget as a whole sends out very positive messages to people about the UK economy and will further raise optimism about the future.” For Harding, this optimism plays its own crucial role for stakeholders in the gambling sector.

“As an industry which is right at the end of the discretionary spend curve, optimism and confidence is what we want and I have no doubt that this budget will help drive our businesses forwards in the coming year,” he stated. “I also thought this was George Osborne’s best performance at the Despatch Box: the odds on him succeeding David Cameron must have shortened considerably.”

FINANCE

For coin-op, the latest Budget introduced no make or break policies. But with economic growth apace and unemployment at a record low, Budget 2015 highlighted a UK populace that increasingly has money to spend. ast week saw George Osborne unveil Budget 2015, for what he claimed was“a Britain that is growing, creating jobs and paying its way.” The data accompanying the chancellor’s opening statement certainly seemed to portray a British economy on-the-mend. In 2014, UK GDP grew by 2.6 per cent - faster than any other advanced economy. UK unemployment is at a record low, standing at just 5.3 per cent.According to the Office for Budget Responsibility’s statistics,living standards are higher now than they were in 2010:with the average household £900 better off in terms of annual income. Unsurprisingly, few policy changes intersected with gaming and amusement provision.The deescalation of beer-duty continued, with a penny slashed from the price of a pint for the third consecutive year.The move was celebrated by pub lobbyists and - if it aids the plight of the UK pub - may well prove something of a handhold for AWP providers. Of welcome news to employers was the abolishment of National Insurance Contributions for workers under the age of 21, amounting to an annual saving of £332 per employee. Regarding business rates - a review of the current system was pledged, as was an increase in the level of small-business rate relief.A simplification of tax-return procedure - abolishing the lengthy paper requirement - will also be wel-

comed by small business owners. A lowering of VAT for domestic tourism and hospitality providers was conspicuously absent, although the chancellor did disclose that talks were underway with Transport for the North to improve new road networks and more efficient rail links. Similar inter-city infrastructural improvements were promised for the South West, which may well be of benefit to the level of day-tripper tourist footfall within both regions. Finally, for manufacturers, the temporary extension of Annual Investment Allowance (as stipulated in the Finance Bill 2014) held firm - thus the financial incentive to invest in new plant or machin-

ery continues, albeit until the end of the current year. Whilst policies of direct benefit to the coin-op industry were scant on the ground, from the industry perspective the key message was that people are once again starting to have change in their pockets. “Clearly, a stronger economy brings its own benefits to our sector - in that people have more disposable income,” said Simon Storer,BACTA’s head of communications.“There’s nothing specific to us in there, but we’re a small industry comparatively - so that’s not unusual. In that respect it’s much more important that we push for specific policies postelection.”

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Coinslot March 27 - April 2, 2015

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Osborne rejects tourism VAT cut if Tories win election TOURISM

The chancellor has confirmed he will go against the wishes of the tourism industry and ruled against its appeal for a reduction in VAT. eorge Osborne has ruled out a reduction in VAT on amusement attractions, accommodation and restaurants from 20 to five per cent if he remains chancellor after May’s general election. Speaking to an audience at Sky News’‘Ask the Chancellors’ forum on Monday, Osborne described the measure as a “short-term fix” and said it would cost billions of pounds to introduce. The news will come as a

severe disappointment to the Cut Tourism VAT campaign, led by Bourne Leisure, Merlin Entertainments, the British Hospitality Association and BALPPA. Its message was articulated at Monday’s event by a hotel operator from Devon,who asked Osborne if there was any hope that he would follow the example set by 25 out of 27 European countries. The operator commented: “From Greece to Germany, from Spain to Sweden,they’ve cut the rate of VAT as the quickest way to stimulate the economy and to drive exports. “Tourism is our fifth biggest export - we’ve just talked about the trade deficit and we’ve just talked about the EU - and that’s one EU measure that stands out that we are not following while everybody else is.” Responding, Osborne

said the measure would cost “many billions of pounds” and hadn’t provided much of a boost to tourism in “quite a lot of countries” that had made the VAT reduction. Instead, he said the money would be better spent on promoting tourism abroad and on infrastructure projects in specific regions. Addressing the Devon hotel operator, Osborne pointed to investment he has made in improving transport in the SouthWest, including the A303 road and rail links. He explained: “I think that is a better long-term investment for the South West, for the tourist industry in the South West, and it shows as a country that you are thinking for the longterm. “I have never said to anyone there are short-term

fixes for Britain.Announcing improvements to the A303 isn’t going to be ready for the general election, but I do know that when that road is complete it will make a massive difference to businesses in the South West, and I could say the same about projects across the UK.” According to a 2011

report by Deloitte, the government would lose up to £1.2bn in foregone VAT per annum. But the Cut Tourism VAT has produced its own fiscal analysis showing that the Treasury would recoup that investment within three years and, over a ten-year period, go on to make a net gain of £2.6bn.

VIDEO ‘WORLD FIRST’ VIDEO GAME ARCHIVE DUE FOR PUBLIC OPENING The National Videogame Archive (NVA) is due to open its doors in Nottingham at the end of the month. Following government investment of £2.5m, the NVA is billed to be “the world’s first cultural centre for gaming”. Its five storeys of exhibition space will document the entire history of video game development, from earliest inception in the 1950’s, through to arcade classics and today’s modern console titles. “A new generation is growing up with games that shape their fundamental conceptions of social interaction, creativity and learning,” claimed the centre’s co-director Jonathan Smith. “At this incredibly excit-

ing time, the NVA invites everyone to share in the discovery of new ways for people to play together.” The NVA opens on March 28.

Scotland introduces Britain’s first plastic note CURRENCY

Clydesdale Bank have become the first issuing authority to circulate plastic banknotes on Great British soil. Design permitting - this may well equate to the first-steps towards a more secure, more durable form of British currency. And quite probably the need for major revisions and upgrades to the UK’s currency handling capacity.

saw the introduction first ever polymer note Tto hisofgotheweek into circulation in Great Britain. The Clydesdale Bank - one of three issuing banks in Scotland will produce two million £5 polymer notes, a full year ahead of the Bank of England’s planned introduction of plastic banknotes into general circulation. Unveiled last year in commemoration of the 125th anniversary of the Forth Bridge, the note depicts the bridge itself on one face, and Sir William Arrol - whose company constructed it - on the other. Composition aside, the plastic notes also differ from their cottonpaper counterparts with respect to their size: the new note is slightly smaller, though the bank Clydesdale claims it will still fit in cash machines. Whilst plastic notes can bring to bear a host of new security features - it is their extended lifespan which seems to serve as their

most attractive asset: plastic currency is said to last 2.5 times longer than paper equivalents.To this end,over 20 countries worldwide have already adopted polymer notes. Rob Clarke, sales executive for currency-sorting equipment specialist Cummins Allison, highlights a potential spanner-in-theworks when it comes to large-scale processing of plastic

banknotes. “Some of the issues with plastic notes is if [the banks] decide to feature a clear window on the note,” he explains.“This makes it quite difficult to validate the notes, because a sorting machine has to avoid looking at this area of the note, which appears black.” Other territories of the UK have experimented with plastic currency in the past.The Isle of

Man issued polymer notes between 1983 and 1988, when problems with the printing process saw circulation halted. Northern Ireland’s Northern Bank issued its own plastic £5 note in 1999, commemorating the upcoming turn of the millennium. When it comes to the upcoming wide-scale introduction of polymer notes due for next year, Clarke seems confident that his company’s machines will be up to task. “We’ve certainly had experience with other countries around the world that use plastic notes, and have had no real issues with them,” he tells us. “We believe that when the Bank of England introduces their own polymer notes in June 2016, our sorters will be able to accept them. Obviously until we have the note itself we don’t know for sure - but past experience in other markets seems to suggest that this should be the case.”

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INDUSTRY AMUSEMENTS LEISURE

B2B COMMENT NEWSWEEK REPORT Category B3 machines still make their mark, but what could they achieve if there was a prize parity? 15

Buyers expressing strong interest in Llandudno Pier PIERS

Major players in the leisure sector are already lining up to bid for one of Wales’ top seaside amusement attractions. he company handling the £4.5m sale of Llandudno Pier has said it has received strong interest from parties looking at buying the 695metre leisure attraction. Richard Baldwin, director of global real estate agent Bilfinger GVA, said that even though the pier had only been on the market for a fortnight, he had handled several enquiries from major players in the leisure sector. Llandudno Pier is one of three piers being sold by Cuerden Leisure, along with Blackpool Central Pier and Blackpool South Pier, for a collective price tag of £12.6m. Baldwin told Wales’Daily Post: “It is early days, we only started to market the piers last week, but the interest already has been

very positive. “We have had expressions of interest from a number of other leisure operators form the North Wales and wider North West area, some of the people we may have expected to come forward. We have also had interest from other parties.” The next step in the sales process will be a set deadline for informal tenders to be lodged for the Grade IIlisted pier. Once all parties have entered a bid,a shortlist will be drawn up and further negotiations conducted to select the final buyer.

Baldwin said Llandudno represented especially good value:“This is a successful trading pier and there is no reason why it will not remain a successful and profitable pier in the future. “There has been strong interest in all three piers but particularly strong interest for Llandudno. Part of the reason is that it is unopposed, in that there is nothing similar in the vicinity. “The pier has also always traded well and there are a variety of attractions on the facility from amusement arcades, concessions, a bar,

cafe. The pier has always been very popular and has been profitable.” All three piers feature amusement arcades and rides and generate a collective income of around £1.6m a year for Cuerden through annual concession agreements. St John Stott, director at Cuerden Leisure, said the group was selling the piers as it was “restructuring its assets”. He said:“These assets are jewels in the crown of the UK’s coastline and we are delighted to offer them to the market either as separate lots or collectively.”

Brighton operators concerned by removal of parking meters

and until now the city has kept its traditional coinfed meters. But council plans to move towards an entirely cashless payment system could see roadside meters disappear completely. Anne Martin, the general manager at Brighton Pier, argued that a lack of flexible parking options could outweigh the money-saving benefits if it impacts local tourism and business. “I think the parking situation in Brighton certainly had a major effect on the local leisure economy when prices increased dramatically a couple of years ago,” she said. “There needs to be a real-

istic balance between the need to collect revenue for the local council needs and the need to make Brighton an attractive destination for visitors.” Half of meters will have disappeared by June this year, and cash parking payments may have vanished from the streets of Brighton and Hove as early as 2017. Martin said: “The payby-phone system that is currently rolling out is thought by some to be a stealth tax as there is a 15p service charge - and not everyone necessarily has a phone or likes to pay by phone. Completely cashless would not be good news.”

SEASIDE RESORTS

perators in Brighton have expressed dismay O at council plans to scrap half of the city’s parking

meters as part of a series of cost-cutting measures. Brighton and Hove City Council (BHC) first introduced online and mobile parking payments in 2013,

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Can new games package go down a Storm?

Butlin’s to undergo branding make-over MARKETING

fter the third subsequent cut in beer duty, pub owners could have another opportunity to reduce costs with the prospect of a licence-free kiosk. At the start of the year, Storm Games launched its first unlicensed product, allowing individual operators to decide when and if to pay for certain additional games. “One thing operators tend to struggle with is supplying new kiosks into the pub sector and actually making any money doing that,” said managing

PUB & CLUB SECTOR

Storm Games has reported unprecedented success at the start of the year after releasing a licence-free product to reduce running costs for operators.

director Richard Sheldon. “We’ve released a product called Street Casino 2015, and we’ve done that as a completely licence-free product.” Since the product officially launched on January 1st, there has been a significant take-up from operators around the UK, driving the company to step up its manufacturing rate in order to cope with demand. “We’re trying to keep the costs low for the pub sector, so we’ve released Street Casino with 16 games on initially and we’ll release new, fairly low-cost games for people to buy as well,” Sheldon added. “It has been massively successful for us - we’re building them as fast as we can.” Although several licensed products are still on offer from the company, Sheldon believes that his team have found an innovative way to make gaming machines affordable to independent site owners. “We just took the view that we should offer two products: one product that’s fully licensed, and one that is completely unlicensed as an alternative,” said Sheldon. “The feedback we’ve had from

our customers is that they prefer that because on some of their sites they don’t need to update that machine for more than 12 months and some just like to buy the games as and when we release them.” The sixteen-game machine starts with just nine of the total offering displayed on the menu, with seven games in the background for operators to release when they need to. “This means they’ve effectively got all their updates for the year already included in the package,” said Sheldon. The licence-free package is part of a series of Storm Games offerings specifically tailored to the needs of pubs and working men’s clubs; sectors often in need of reduced operational costs. Sheldon explained: “We’re probably most successful in the club sector because we do two sets of distinct products. We do the B3A lottery product, a VAT-free product for the private member’s clubs. Then for other clubs we do the £400-jackpot B4 product, and two other products: the licensed and the unlicensed one.”

ARCADE ‘PAC-MAN’S A BAD GUY?’ Pac-Man, Donkey Kong and a host of other classic arcade heroes are due for a spell on the silver-screen. In Columbia Pictures’ ‘Pixels’, aliens misconstrue the purpose of a peaceful probe despatched by NASA in 1982. Interpreting included samples of contemporary video games as a declaration of war - they attack the earth, using Pac-Man

oliday park operator Butlin’s has started the H process for a significant rebranding which is expected to extend to the company’s current entertainment offering. The historical UK holiday resort provider will be using external expertise to refresh both its marketing materials and onsite design. Part of the Butlin’s brief is

to ‘rekindle the love holidaymakers have for the brand and for the British seaside in general.’ Just how radical this exercise in rebranding and redesign will be is unclear, and Butlin’s itself is yet to comment with the main signals of intent emanating from an appointed agency rather than the leisure giant itself. However, the hopes are somewhat high with the marketing firm remarking: “We are ready and very much looking forward to helping Butlin’s as they move to the next stage of their brand journey, one that will drive an engaging customer experience and help reinvent the British seaside break.”

and his fellow arcade brethren as a means to wreak havoc. Due for release this coming summer, the movie stars Adam Sandler, Peter Dinklage and Josh Gad. MACHINES VINTAGE GAMES GO UNDER THE HAMMER Arcade games from Clacton Pier sparked a fierce bidding war between enthusiasts after they were put up for auction, with some lots fetching ten times their original price estimate. Auctioneer Michael Bowles at Reeman Dansie, Colchester, said it was the first time in two decades that so many arcade games had been up for auction. “The highlight was the billiards machine which made £4,500,” he told the Daily Gazette. “I think it went to a buyer in the US.”

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Safe gaming is serious business at Cashino AGC

Praesepe’s commercial director, Byron Evans, explains how Cashino takes great pains to ensure that underage and problem gambling are kept to an absolute minimum, despite the AGC sector’s ‘imbalanced’ position vis-a-vis high street gaming.

S: How does Cashino ensure all of its players meet the legal requisite

blers has dropped for the previous three years. That said, one under age gambler is one too many and responsible AGC operators must age? Byron Evans: Cashino operates a do all that they can to keep those Think 25 Policy and insists that that are under 18 out of licensed every member of staff challenges gaming premises. anyone who might reasonably be thought to be Under 25, to prove CS: How important is staff training their age. Most young people are in tackling underage gambling? used to being asked their age, BE: Staff training is crucial in keepwhether it be in pubs,clubs or even ing our social responsibility and the supermarket. If you cannot compliance message at the foredemonstrate there and then that front of how our staff behave and you are Over 18 we politely ask you act with customers. No new to leave and return with the rele- member of staff is allowed to be vant ID. on the shop floor until they have completed a full induction process, which includes specific CS: The Gambling Commission examples designed to recognise has stated that the numbers of and challenge those that may be underage gamblers is ‘static’. As under age. This training is reinan operator, do you agree with forced every six months. this statement? BE:This is a comment from the Ipso Mori survey and neglects to say CS: Does Cashino have measthat the number of underage gam- ures in place to identify problem

gamblers? BE: Our staff are trained to recognise players who appear to be having issues with machine play. When this occurs then players are counselled as appropriate and measures such as Self Exclusion and/or contact with Gamcare are discussed. CS: When compared to bettingshop, do you think AGC’s provide more of an ‘amusement/gaming’ service than a ‘hard’ gambling experience? Do you think government bodies understand this distinction? BE: Given that the highest stake in an AGC is £2,and many players play at 10p, then clearly it is not a hard gaming environment. The issue that we have is that we do have players who would like to play at higher stakes and they don’t understand (and neither do I) why it is possible to play with higher stakes

on one side of the high street and not on the other, particularly given that all licensed gaming premises (on the high street) are Age Controlled Environments and all seek to uphold the three main tenets of the 2005 Gambling Act. I have yet to receive a proper explanation for this imbalance, which baffles me.

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With research and development ever cheaper and video games more popular than ever, for games designer Alex Fleetwood, changes within the traditional video arcade offering are as required as they are increasingly easy to implement.

lex Fleetwood has spent the entirety of his adult life bringing video-game innovation to the public sphere. Now an independent games consultant, in his former guise as director of Hide & Seek Games he specialised in the design of games integrated within real-word environments, or in his own words,“exploring where virtual gaming meets physical, real world gaming in different ways.” As a child himself of the video-arcade zenith of the 1970’s and 80’s, how does he rate the current state of the video-arcade title? “The arcade sector hasn’t kept pace with trends in gameplay, neither in terms of technology nor in terms of the style of

games,” he responds. “We’ve been through the waves of casual games, social games, multi-player competitive games - we’ve had all these exciting commercial trends which have washed through console and PC gaming, but none of that has reached the arcade at all.” Does this indicate an inevitable demise for the video-centric arcade? “The principles of what an arcade is meant to be all hold true - it’s just that you need completely new machines and technology in there,”Fleetwood replies. This may well entail shaking up the tried and tested product offerings. “You’ve got brilliant designers like Josh DeBonis with Killer Queen and

SCOTLAND’S ‘LUCKIEST GAMBLER’ BAGS DOUBLE JACKPOT PRIZE

Doug Wilson - who has made a game called Johan Sebastian Joust, which uses Playstation Move controllers but is essentially an arcade game,” Fleetwood continues. “These things could - if anyone was looking for them - translate to arcade experiences, but that hasn’t really happened.” What’s more, the costs associated with game and cabinet development experimentation have never been less prohibitive. “One thing which is very exciting is that the costs of prototyping and manufacturing new kinds of hardware have come down dramatically in the past five years,” Fleetwood explains. “It’s been a consequence of

Sound Leisure training expands by popular demand

Friday 13th is thought to be unlucky by some. But for Jean Murdoch, a 73-year-old retired nurse, her trip to the Mecca Bingo hall in Ayr was about to prove anything but. Murdoch called ‘house’ after just 40 numbers. Initially thinking she’d won the local £100 the smart-phone war that prize, she was amazed to disthere are ever greater num- cover that as she also had a bers of cheap sensors, “lucky-star”, she’d also won cheap processors, very the National Bingo Game low-power units that can prize - netting her a staggerincreasingly drive more ing £221,000. To top it all off and more sophisticated as she waited to hear the kinds of hardware.” exact size of her bingo haul, Don’t be misled - Fleet- Murdoch inserted £1 into a wood’s criticism stems B3 machine…and won a from a genuine apprecia- £300 jackpot. “When I was tion for the FEC’s contribu- eventually told I’d won the tion to UK heritage.“I think jackpot, I was a wee bit it’s quite an important cul- shocked, to say the least,” ture that we haven’t taken she remarked. “It didn’t sink very good care of,” he tells in and it still hasn’t. It must us.“If you look at Margate, have been my lucky day.”

you’ve got a Turner art gallery on one end, and Dreamland at the other end.Those are both equally important cultural spaces but you’ll find that it’s Dreamland that holds the lion’s share of the memories for the people there.”

Industry united: stake/prize imbalance must be rectified LEGISLATION

JUKEBOX

Leisure has completed the first of its 2015 training courses, Spartound a yearly programme operated by the jukebox manufacturer in an effort to develop the skills of its customers. The opening course covered site management and the Leeds-based company reported that it was “received extremely well”by all attendees. Due to increasing demand, Sound Leisure has added additional dates to the original schedule. Three more courses are now

planned for April covering preparing and installing a digital jukebox and advanced technical support. Both Sound Leisure and Soundnet were represented at the course, to meet with customers and answer any queries. “This is not just a PR exercise,” said Sound Leisure managing director Chris Black.“A lot of work had gone into setting these courses up and both Sound Leisure and Soundnet’s commitment to them was evi-

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dent in the amount of our personnel that we had involved.We know from previous years just how valuable these courses are for our customers and for ourselves.” The course was led by Alastair Tevendale, Sound Leisure’s technical sales manager, along with Andrew Webb,Tony Silkstone and Nigel French. James Luck and Toby Hoyte were present from Soundnet. Chris Black welcomed everyone to Leeds at the start of the day and conducted a factory tour following the course. “There was a real buzz in the training room this morning,” said Black.“It was extremely apparent that everyone who attended the course was keen to learn and also share their experiences of installations on site. We could not have wished for a more positive day and are looking forward to welcoming the next group to Leeds in April.”

ne common line of argument emerged from O industry professionals as they outlined their views on the state of the Category B3 sector in this week’s Coinslot report. “It is vital that we seek technical changes to this category - so that we have a compelling commercial offer,” claimed Tony Boulton, managing director of machine manufacturer Project Design and Technology. The same sentiment was echoed from the distribution camp. “The industry should always take every opportunity presented to review the stakes and prizes on all the categories of products in operation to ensure we remain competitive compared to other products avail-

able to players in the market,” sales director Tony Glanville of RLMS sales told us. But perhaps the most vehement call for stake and prize parity came from within the operator quarter. “We are not asking for the £100 per spin every 20 seconds that’s available to LBO’s,” argued Talarius chief operating officer Peter Harvey, “but we do want parity across the gambling sector so that customers can choose where they go and play gaming machines.” Across the full spectrum of the industry, the call for a rebalancing of stake and prize limits seems to be found. With a business consensus clearly established perhaps this momentum can yield tangible results in the run up to the next triennial review?

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Dreamland seeks new recruits

National youth rugby Portsmouth pier deck team enjoy Brighton pier reinforced

Cuerden welcomes Eastbourne award

Dreamland Margate is holding a recruitment day ahead of its much anticipated summer opening. The fully revamped heritage amusement park will conduct interviews for positions across its events, marketing, operations and retail departments on April 1-2.

The under-20s England rugby team chilled out in two of Brighton’s biggest arcades ahead of a match against France at the Amex stadium. The team were shown around Brighton Pier by teammate James Chisholm, a back-row player from nearby Haywards Heath.

Eastbourne Pier owner Cuerden Leisure has welcomed its jointthird place in the Pier of the Year 2015 awards. The firm’s Ian Gardner told local press: “It is particularly pleasing to see Eastbourne Pier recognised after such a difficult summer following the terrible fire.”

A significant step has been reached in the restoration of Portsmouth’s South Parade Pier, which had been declared unsafe. 200 square metres of concrete was poured onto each side of the pier’s rear decking to reinforce its rigidity.

Cromer voted Pier of the Year PIERS

Britain’s piers still have pulling power, and none more than Cromer which has lifted the pier of the year award. From Abba tribute shows to Tchaikovsky ballets and a vast array of top amusements - Cromer’s 495 foot pier has defied all the elements to stave off the challenge of Worthing, Eastbourne and Llandudno to top the bill. romer Pier has battled the adversity of being badly hit by 2013’s winter storms to be voted Pier of theYear 2015. The National Piers Society put Cromer, which previously won the award in 2000, ahead of Worthing in second place, with Eastbourne and Llandudno tying for third. Cromer Pier owners North Norfolk District Council said it was a“fantastic reward”and they were“hugely proud of the pier”. Council leader Tom FitzPatrick commented:“This is a

Police ask for help in Plymouth arcade theft CRIME

musement operators in South Devon should be on high alert after police A asked for help identifying two suspects

fantastic reward for the significant investment in repairs and refurbishment that has enabled us to return Cromer’s iconic landmark to its former glory”. “We are looking to have it remaining present, iconic and winning awards for another 100 years.After the surge there was a lot of interest in the way the pier had survived the battering. We got to work, and got it back into operation.” The council had spent £1.3m refurbishing the legs and the majority of the decking, before the storm surge that struck

large parts of the UK coastline in December 2013. The pier sustained severe damage during the storms,forcing the cancellation of nearly two weeks’ performances at its Pavilion Theatre. The theatre’s box office and restaurant were destroyed by the powerful winds and waves, but repairs today repairs of both - thought to cost in the region of £500,000 - are almost complete. It still hosts the UK’s last surviving End Of The Pier show, which runs twice daily for 13

weeks in the summer and 4 weeks at Christmas. In February 2013, Cromer gained national coverage when it was used as the location for the climactic scene of the Alan Partridge Alpha Papa film. It will also feature in the forthcoming BBC drama series Partners in Crime, starring David Walliams and Jessica Raine. Making the award, National Piers Society president Gavin Henderson said: “There’s no business like show business, and Cromer Pier proves it. Congratulations to all concerned.”

wanted in connection with a theft at a Plymouth arcade. The duo were seen entering the Winners amusement arcade in Plymouth’s Keyham Road on February 14, shortly after 8.40pm. While one of the men engaged in conversation with a member of the arcade’s staff, the other was caught on camera approaching a number of machines. Later analysis of CCTV footage showed the second man making use of a metal rod device, which he forced into the amusement machines. After the pair left staff discovered more than £500 was missing from the machines. Devon and Cornwall Police has issued images captured by CCTV in the hope that the public can assist it with its inquiries. Anyone who recognises the man is advised to call police on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting crime reference number CR/010735/15.

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Coinslot March 27 - April 2, 2015

Politics

8 Email: je@gbmedia.eu

Frost election signals thaw in BACTA’s political proposition

GamCare appoints new chairman

TRADE ASSOCIATION

The election of Jason Frost as BACTA national president will, he proposes, usher in a more ‘proactive’ approach to market challenges. From a distinctly icy posture in its public affairs for the best part of a decade, the trade association is looking to raise the temperature with a more positive perspective.

ast week saw BACTA’s National Council meeting in London, and with it, the election of Jason Frost, managing director of Phoenix Gaming in Cornwall, to the position of BACTA president. Frost takes up his post with immediate effect, succeeding Steve Hawkins, who steps down following completion of his two-year term. In an acceptance statement, Frost welcomed his appointment, and highlighted the major areas of focus for the coming year. “This is a very interesting time.There is no doubt that the industry has been under con-

siderable pressure for a number of years and companies from across the sector are finding trading conditions extremely taxing.There are several major issues on the horizon, such as the introduction of the new £1 coin as well as the continuing disparity caused by FOBTs, which need to be addressed.” In what may prove to be a change of tack for the tradebody, Frost stressed that his time in office would see him “promote the many positives that we all know are key part of our great tradition.” “For too long we have been reactive and not proactive,” he

TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

REPONSIBLE GAMBLING

esponsible gambling charity GamCare has announced that Sir Ian Presser, the R former chairman and chief executive of

argued. “Over the next two years I hope that with the support of the industry and the team at BACTA I can really make a difference and position the industry in a far stronger place to face the many challenges that inevitably lie ahead.” Serving alongside Frost will be Gabino Stergides of Electrocoin, who is newly elected as BACTA vice president.

Bass Plc is to become the organisation’s new chairman. The appointment follows the death in January of GamCare’s previous chairman and long time servant, Anthony Jennens. “I am delighted to be joining GamCare as Chairman,” said Presser. “I have been tremendously impressed by the skill and dedication of the GamCare staff and I look forward to working with them to make a real difference to the lives of problem gamblers and their families.” Sir Ian was knighted in 1995, following a long career in the brewing and hospitality industry. He is currently active on a number of boards and is the chairman of the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes, chairman of BP Pension Trustees Ltd and chairman of Aviva Staff Pension Fund.

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Coinslot March 27- April 2, 2015

Leisure

8 Email: je@gbmedia.eu

TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

Britain still loves the good stuff

Tourism: paycheque generator

USJ sets sights on Okinawa

The rise of those seeking ‘Bleisure’

Beer remains incredibly popular within UK pubs. Despite an ever increasing number of spirits and wine available, statistics from the BBPA show that beer was the selected tipple of choice in 7 out of every 10 sale transactions of alcoholic beverages.

The UK tourism industry sustains a huge number of jobs. According to figures produced by Visit Britain, the number of those employed in the accommodation, restaurant and attractions sector is in excess of 1.7m, or approximately 6 per cent of the UK workforce.

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) intend to construct a new theme-park on the island of Okinawa, at the southernmost extreme of the country. USJ president Glenn Gumpel has claimed the new attraction will draw on the distinctive culture of Okinawa itself - as opposed to Hollywood tiles - for inspiration.

Be warned, leisure providers: a new word has entered the corporate lexicon. ‘Bleisure’ refers to what some claim is the growing trend of business travellers adding extra-time to their scheduled trip to take off and enjoy the sites both at home and abroad.

Resorts come together to celebrate English Tourism Week

Park Resorts aim to keep “finger on the pulse” of modern amusements

TOURISM

oliday hotspots around the country held a H series of promotions and

HOLIDAY PARKS

‘Innovation’ is a term oft bandied about. But for Alan Castledine of Park Resorts, no apter term applies to his company’s determination to deliver alluring amusements to its visitors. ast week saw Park Resorts the UK’s largest holiday park operator - announce that they had renewed a four-year contract with Playnation, amounting to full amusement and gaming provision across 48 holiday destinations. It was a choice no doubt celebrated at the machine supplier’s headquarters - but what were the major factors underlying Park Resort’s decision to drive its amusements offering forward? “Playnation understands what our guests wish to experience today,” responds Alan Castledine, commercial director of Park Resorts, whose objective remains firmly set on delivering “new

trends to ensure there is continually something new to delight guests to keep them coming back for more,” . Of course, it should be noted that in terms of role, amusement forms merely part of the holiday firm’s wider entertainment offering: inclusive of live shows, water sports, bars, restaurants and shops. Nevertheless, Castledine claims that “amusement machines are an important and growing part of our business, and a key aspect of the offer on all our holiday parks.” Importantly - this business focus seems to be rooted in customer uptake. “Amusement arcades have

played a significant role in the traditional seaside holiday of British families since Victorian days,” says Castledine.“Today, they bring with them that feeling of tradition albeit in a modern setting and with the most up to date games, and remain just as popular as ever.” Such a statement must come as music to the ears of the machines industry as a whole: as the sentiment suggests that amusement is not just relevant, but still central to the UK coastal holiday. That said - falling back upon tried-and-tested technology and play experiences risks isolating the modern audience. “Innovation in a competitive

market is important to keep attractions appealing and exciting for families, which is where augmented reality comes into modern gaming,” Castledine argues.“Interactive elements really bring games to life for both children and adults, ensuring that they have the best experience possible.” To this end - it seems that Park Resorts has set its stall out: to deliver ‘leading edge of family entertainment provision’.And for Castledine the key is to keep “its finger on the pulse of modern arcades, which ensures the offer to our guests is continually evolving and remains amongst the best in the market.”

social media sessions to celebrate tourism and showcase the range of careers in the industry. The week-long event, organised by DCMS and the Tourism Industry Council, kicked off with a Twitter chat for young people interested in breaking into tourism and hospitality. Throughout the week, local businesses and attractions put on novel activities with discounts and special offers to draw attention to the importance of tourism. The president of the Chamber of Commerce even joined the local Mayor and Mayoress of Weston in helping out at Puxton Adventure Park in Hewish for a day as part of the festivities.

Wemyss Bay wins respect of local politicos TOURISM

Wemyss Bay Holiday celebrated ScotTtishhePark Tourism Week earlier this month by welcoming local MP Iain McKenzie alongside Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil.

The pair were shown around by general manager Andrew McWilliam and declared that they had been impressed with the facilities. “It was great to see the substantial investment in the park by the Parkdean group,” said McKenzie. “

Tourism has a part to play in continued business development in Inverclyde and Wemyss Bay Holiday Park is a shining example of the tourism industry playing its part to the full.” The park,which features a well stocked amusement

arcade and outdoor adventure playground, alongside many other attractions, employs up to 75 members of staff alongside three apprentices during its peak season and was hailed as a ‘beautiful location’ by McNeil, who is deputy convener of the Scottish Parlia-

ment’s cross-party group on tourism. “As well as being a key employer in the community, it also plays an important role in attracting visitors to the area [and] helping the local economy and the tourism industry,” said McNeil.

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Coinslot March 27 - April 2, 2015

Business

24 This week’s machines charts

Apprentice boon offers good news for tourism

Devolved funds could lead to leisure support

Broadband expansion to boost rural business

The VisitEngland chief executive responded positively to the introduction of Apprenticeship Vouchers in the 2015 budget. James Berreford said the vouchers and an eventual NI cut for apprentices’ employers could stimulate the sector to take on new apprentices and support recent industry growth.

VisitEngland has speculated that new local enterprise zones and devolution deals could mean a cash injection for tourism. “We will be campaigning to make the case to these new fund holders that tourism is a highly effective area for investment to create regional economic growth,” said chief executive James Berresford.

Tourism executives welcomed a £600m investment into rolling out high-speed broadband and better mobile phone signal countrywide, saying it would attract more visitors to rural locations. James Berresford, CEO of VisitEngland, said: “Digital infrastructure is arguably just as important as transport infrastructure for tourism.”

Pub industry hails tax cut Osborne: ‘Hat Trick Hero’

26 B2B Listings and Marketplace

28 Classified sales, business opps and jobs

32 Diary highlights and industry calendar

PUBS

helped to create 16,000 jobs within the UK brewing industry. Retraction in the beer duty rate - observed from 2013 onwards - stands in marked contrast to the ‘beer duty escalator’, which between 2008 and 2012 saw an overall increase of 42 per cent in tax levelled on beer. According to the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), this period accounted for the closure of 7,000 pubs - at the cost ast Wednesday saw the of 58,000 jobs. It’s of no real surprise, thereannouncement of Budget 2015, and with it, fore, that the latest round of ecothe stipulation of a further nomic measures were praised penny off the standing rate of across the breadth of the UK pub beer duty - the third such con- industry. “A third cut in beer tax is a secutive reduction. Of further benefit to the pub huge vote of confidence in the industry was a 2 per cent reduc- importance of pubs and brewtion in duty charged on cider and ing,” claimed Tim Page, chief spirits, as well as a freezing of executive of the Campaign for Real Ale.“It will help ensure the duty on wine. Chancellor George Osborne sector returns to long-term claimed the 2014 duty-cut had growth after many years of pub

With Budget 2015’s penny reduction of beer duty - the third of its kind in as many years - George Osborne is fast becoming the darling of the troubled UK pub industry.

closures and falling beer sales, and throws a lifeline to struggling community pubs across the country.” Brigid Simmonds,chief executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, echoed these sentiments. “The Chancellor really is a‘Hat Trick Hero’,” she remarked.“His third, successive beer tax cut shows he has listened to consumers, publicans and brewers.” This year’s tax cut is expected to put an extra £180m into the

pockets of pub-goers, at a time when demand for beer within UK pubs is rising. But as Simmonds publicly acknowledged - “there is more work to be done”. One of the areas for improvement to which she alludes is the wide disparity in taxation rates between the UK and other EU member states. Whilst the UK contributes 39 per cent of EU beer duty, British drinkers account for only 12 per cent of consumption.

MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

Schoolboy’s design wins new £1 ‘tails’ competition CURRENCY

The shape of the old threepenny piece, the new 12-sided £1 coin will come into circulation in 2017. A counter to 45m forgeries on the market currently, the new coin will be bi-metallic, 2 colours, highly secure - and designed by a 15-year old schoolboy.

‘tails’ face of the new - due for introducTtionhe£1incoin 2017 - will feature the design of a West Midlands schoolboy. 15-year-old David Pearce had entered a competition alongside 6,000 other applicants, which aimed to produce a coin-face that best symbolised Britain. “It took me a few hours,” Pearce told BBC Radio 5 Live. “I wanted

to research things that go on coins and I went down the floral route. I wanted a flower to represent each of the four countries - so I chose the rose, thistle, leek and shamrock: then I wanted something that united them all together, so I turned to the

crown.” The chancellor George Osbourne broke the news to the boy over the phone. “He said, ‘I’ve got good news for you,’” Pearce recounted. “‘Your design has won the competition - it’ll go on the new one-pound coin, and they’re going to produce 1.4bn of them.’”

The Essential Guide to Spares & Components Next Week

2413-p15-24-Essential_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 15:09 Page 1

Essential Guide to...

B 2 B

Category B3 OPENING REMARKS

Levelling the playing-field

Whilst server-based gaming goes some way to keep the B3 title current, a rise in stakes and prizes is a must if the machines are to stay competitive long-term, argues Peter Harvey of Talarius.

t’s an old tune well sung, but any discussion of B3 machines - particularly when faced with an upcoming general election - must address the current state of high-street disparity. “It’s frustrating to not be able to offer the same products that other high street gaming premises can,” chimes in Talarius chief operating officer Peter Harvey.“It goes without saying that we find it very important that whoever forms the next government in May addresses this.” For Harvey, the rebalancing required isn’t so much that AGC’s should be allowed to offer exorbitant FOBT-level £100-per-spin stakes on their top-tier machines, but that a logical corrective middle-ground between both LBO and AGC sectors should be striven for. “We want parity across the gambling sector so that customers can choose where they go and play gaming machines,” he states.“Our views would be that government should significantly reduce the level of stakes in LBOs and, as a consequence, allow other sectors to move up to the same level.” In finding this equilibrium, Harvey throws his weight behind the idea of a significant increase in B3 jackpot at the next triennial review - as long as stake versatility is preserved. “Many operators across the gaming industry are calling for maximum stakes

to be increased from £2 to £10, and for jackpots to be raised to £1,000,” he explains.“Such a move would allow customers to experience a much better game, but it is vitally important that the stake is variable to allow the customer choice to play at the level they can afford.” Indeed, an increase in both stake and prize for B3 machines forms one prong of what Harvey sees as two-tiered approach to“keeping the sector current.” The other - perhaps unsurprisingly - is what he views as the inevitable ascendency of server-based gaming. “The machines we are offer are based on customer demand, rather than allowing technological developments ‘wagging the dog’, so to speak,”he comments. “In the long-term, however, all machines will most likely be server-based, because they give the ability to have total visibility on performance, to link to one payout system (whether that be TITO or a card based system), and they make simple digital marketing opportunities and tournaments.” All for the good of business - but Harvey also foresees positive implications within the area of social responsibility. “Crucially, server-based gaming allows visibility of customer play,” he notes.“This enables the easy identification of vulnerable problem gamblers, allowing staff to intervene.” Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

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B 2 B

Essential Guide to ... Category B3 Market Perspectives SUPPLIER PERSPECTIVE

MANUFACTURING PERSPECTIVE

Finding the right balance RLMS sales director Tony Glanville believes that innovative graphics combined with reliable gameplay is one of the keys to continuing the success of B3. Coinslot: What are the features of a B3 machine which make them attractive to players? And which areas of the B3 design are most ripe for improvement? Tony Glanville: Hats off to the games design teams for their use of graphics and sound and incredible attention to detail that really make for fun and entertaining games for the player. Within the B3 classification, the use of PC based technology has afforded the ability to be able to offer a range of game styles through compendiums and at varying levels of price of play.This has been key to the success of product in this sector. Menus do vary, but to remain attractive to players, they should include traditional multi line slot style games, casino style games such as roulette and poker and offerings that include pot features. Within those genres, players also demonstrate particular tastes for types of secondary games whether they be Free Play or feature orientated styles.We also see player loyalty within B3 to certain brands of games, most notably Astra’s Reel King, Project’s Mega Bars and Novomatic’s Magic Lotto.Players ultimately know what to expect from these styles and have an affinity to them that encourages return visits and repeat play.

and has held that position into 2015. Its resounding success is due to the fact that it represents the best commercial proposition on the market. It delivers 22 games covering a range of styles,as well as the ability to manage the menu screens allowing for as many or as few games to be available to the player as the operator sees fit. MCU technology enables the machine to be updated with further games, while the NV11 recycler facilitates the ability to pay players out in notes resulting in less refills and less down time created by refloating coin hoppers. The other model that we have seen great success with is Fortune Hunter from Project.This was released at EAG after comprehensive testing which demonstrated that the diverse eight-game compendium format really is a hit with players. During testing, all of the featured games on Fortune Hunter attracted healthy levels of play culminating in very strong cash box performances which, in turn, encouraged operators to purchase those test models and place further orders. Other features that made it a winner for operators include the Active Game Management, which allows them to control the prices of play offered on particular games as well as select the two ‘signature games’ that are displayed in the centre of the menu screen. Operators have also warmly welcomed the CS: Do you think that B3s are in need of any particular attention during the next triennial review? option to fit TiTo technology, either at the point of TG:The industry should always take every oppor- purchase or retrospectively. Customers want to tunity presented to review the stakes and prizes ensure that their investments in equipment are on all the categories of products in operation to future proofed and Project, as always, was in tune ensure we remain competitive compared to other with the market.They designed Fortune Hunter with built-in adaptability to the constantly changproducts available to players in the market. We need to be able to offer an attractive and ing market and technological demands. exciting product proposition to the player that encourages return visits. But while stakes and prizes are a very important factor of the products we offer, we must not overlook other elements within the games that might be able to be improved through other means such as technical standards.

CS: What developments in the B3 marketplace would you like to see during 2015? TG:We know of exciting developments on our suppliers’ drawing boards and we are looking forward to taking them to market.From a distribution point of view the top priority is to have access to that ‘must have’ game - one that drives market demand and therefore sales, so it is a win win for all stake holders in the supply chain. CS: Coming out of EAG, have any of the B3 machines you offer proven particularly popular? Why do you think this is? TG:We have two products that have been particularly popular and for contrasting reasons. Astra Games’ Slotto 500 has proved to be the B3 of 2014 Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

Creating something ‘special’ The ‘magic formula’ of a good B3 title? Unique design, both in terms of game-play and cabinet, responds Blueprint’s Andy Hall. or Blueprint Gaming’s operations director Andy Hall, B3 business could hardly be better. F“Over the last two months, our latest games have proven to be really popular - the uptake has been phenomenal,” he tells us. “We have seen an upsurge of play on our newest games which are giving the old favourites a run for their money.” Whilst keeping its cards close to its chest - the company seems confident that this raft of new releases will continue well into the coming year - on both B3 and beyond. “Every development on all sectors in 2015 will be exciting, especially from the Blueprint perspective,” says Hall. “We have got some great product coming through which will be of interest to all sectors, so watch this space.” With the clout of German gaming giant the Gauselmann Group behind it, Blueprint is well placed to adopt and produce the latest server-based games. But Hall argues that operator preference dictates the scale of this kind of provision. “There is a definite place for both lo and hi-tech games to co-exist, if the customer wants them,” he explains. “At Blueprint, we have standalone products which have been successful in the market and still are and sit side by side with our newest games being developed for the digital platform. All our B3 games, along with the development of our Cat C games sit as standalone or as a SBG system - it’s the operators choice, and we can cater for what they feel benefits their venue.” Are there any design specifics Hall can point to which mark out the B3 game destined for success? “It’s the overall feel for the player which makes a good game so attractive,” he replies. “At Blueprint, we involve the player with our unique style of games and build the anticipation for a big win. Return to player is also key, and this is looking to be true in the digital Cat C pub sector - we’ve seen as much with our King of Games compendium.” Cabinet design also plays a significant function. “It’s also down to ergonomics,” Hall posits. “Our cabinets are designed and manufactured by our parent company Gauselmann, who have years of experience of giving a comfortable feel to the player. This has been brought into our next cabinet, the Aurora with two HD screens, and our TITO ready design, all encompassed with vibrant controllable LED lighting.” Taken together, these bells and whistles create a unique experience for the player. “It makes it feel special,” says Hall.

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B 2 B

Essential Guide to ... Category B3 Market Perspectives GAME DEVELOPER PERSPECTIVE

DISTRIBUTOR PERSPECTIVE

Project: progressive linked jackpots could change the B3 landscape

The B3 play experience: money well spent

The gaming industry has moved on, and it’s high time primary legislation moves on with it, argues Tony Boulton, managing director of Project Design and Technology. oming out of EAG, have any of the B3 machines you offer proven particularly popular? Why do you think this is? Fortune Hunter, which is an eight game compendium, is proving a great success, with a number of industry observers referring to it as the ‘stand out’ B3 of the show. It was a long time in R&D and the developmental objective was to create a compendium which generated consistently high levels of play appeal across all of the games.I’m pleased to confirm that the data shows that the top four games, half of the compendium offering, account for 63% of play with the differential between game number 1 and the 8th game in the compendium representing a multiple of 3.75, a figure which is much lower than the industry standard.The mix of games on Fortune Hunter is such that there is something for everyone and as a consequence we are seeing solid play across the board.Fortune Hunter is also garnering appeal on a number of other fronts with operators attracted by the inclusion of the industry standard TiTo protocol as well as our Mi Games Online initiative, which provides access to a further six new games every 12 months for a charge of just ￡35/week. Operators with existing Casino Kings also receive a free Fortune Hunter 500 upgrade when they complete a Mi Games contract

Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

Overall, director of Genesis Games Steve Bierrum is content with the current form standing of B3. To what does he attribute the machines’ success? Simple: players think them a worthwhile spend of both time and money.

which is also proving popular. What developments in the B3 marketplace would you like to see during 2015? In order to keep B3 players engaged with the product, it’s imperative that we are able to keep the stake and prize on these games competitive, not just within the AGC/Bingo environment, but also in relation to online, which is a central feature of the modern gaming landscape and will continue to be so. Dialogue is essential, and we need, through the offices of BACTA and the Gambling Business Group, to continue to discuss this with our regulators and explain the importance we attach to it.There’s a new team in place at DCMS and obviously we will have a new administration after May 7th.With these developments in mind, we need to be on the front foot. Whilst on the subject of the election, how important is it for the continued success of B3 machines that the incoming government levels the playing field between B3 and B2? I think the issue is much broader than the B3/B2 dynamic - as important as that undoubtedly is. I believe that we need the incoming government to recognise that the 2005 Act is simply no longer fit for purpose and that a review is essential in order to prevent further job losses and the closure of more AGCs and Bingo Clubs in this country. This is a technology driven industry which moves at break neck speed. Since the Act, the world of gaming has moved on and left the legislation in its wake.This needs to be addressed and addressed quickly. What changes to the B3 offering would make the genre more attractive to players? It is vital that we seek technical changes to this category so that we have a compelling commercial offer. Whilst it would require a change to primary legislation, one development that I would like to see is the introduction of in-venue progressives, with machines linked-up to a ￡500 jackpot.You would have a winner every day, it would be exciting to play, it’s a realistic and responsible prize and it would add some theatre to the game playing experience.It would add another dimension to community gaming within a social and responsible environment.

o you think server-based B3 systems will eventually replace stand-alone lo-tec cabinets, or is there still a place for both D to co-exist? SB:This is about evolution. During this transition window both genres will co-exist. But ultimately, technology will dictate the outcome. Expediency will play its own hand, with cabinets being built to last in excess of five years, it’s far more effective to download software than manhandling machines. CS: Coming out of EAG, have any of the B3 machines you offer proven particularly popular? SB:We have enjoyed considerable success with the Amatic Industries’ GMBH product range, not only as a consequence of EAG but also of ICE.The reasoning behind this is simple: they’re high quality games, with a wide range of B3 product to suit all tastes - not just with respect to content, but also hardware, cabinets etc. CS: Do you think that B3s are in need of any particular attention during the next triennial review? SB:As long as the B3A marches in step with the B3, that’s fine. What is a paradox is the fact that a 16 year old can buy as many scratch cards as desired from a corner shop, but yet can’t play B3A. CS: What developments in the B3 marketplace would you like to see during 2015? SB: If one studies ROI on B3 product, then the category is very successful.Low inflation means £2.00 is still worth £2.00, as is £500.00. If it ain’t broke…however, one could argue a stake review for a more level playing field with B2 may be beneficial, but then that would also mean a review of the B2 stake CS: What are the features of a B3 machine which make them attractive to players? As above, the category is successful, so obviously the players feel that they are getting entertainment value for the time they buy on a machine.

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B 2 B

Essential Guide to ... Category B3 Market Analysis OPERATOR PERSPECTIVE

DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVE

Category B3 legislation must move with the times

24 Seven call for an even playing field between B2 and B3 The battle for the heart and soul of Category B machines rages on: B3 must have a sense of parity, argues Simon McCarthy of 24 Seven. Without it, innovation and creativity are ‘tied behind our backs’. Change in legislation in needed. s with all tech-based industries, innovation is essential - not least for B3 developers engaged in an on-going battle to wrestle A business back from the B2 market. And for design and development

With the new technology that Category B3 manufacturers have embraced, Gala Bingo managing director Simon Wykes believes there is room for manoeuvre regarding stakes and prizes.

Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

s managing director of Gala Bingo, one of the UK’s biggest bingo operators, Simon Wykes knows just how integral Category B3 is to the sector’s gaming offering. Since replacing Section 16,Wykes has seen Gala customers’ enjoyment of Category B3 game play and playability increase, further enhanced by the higher stake and prize levels it can offer them. Of course, those stake and prize levels haven’t changed from the current £2/£500 ratio for some time now, and Wykes believes they need to move with the times. He told Coinslot:“The stakes and prize limits do reduce content supply as an increasingly consolidating supplier base has to develop games that are only for the UK market, which effectively restricts choice for the customer. “Suppliers want to develop omni-channel content to reduce the risk of their development costs but the restrictions in landbased businesses make this impossible.” If charities and legislators are concerned about the impact on player protection, Wykes pointed to the positive effect that server-based gaming - an innovation already readily embraced by the bingo sector –- can have. He explained: “The new technology server-based gaming machines will also enable operators to implement more sophisticated harm minimisation strategies. “This should mean that blunt player protection measures such as restricted stakes and prizes become less necessary in the future.” As well as offering his customers greater safety,Wykes said server-based gaming enabled Gala to meet their demand for more engaging Category B3 content. As there are restrictions on supply in the UK, it allows Gala to deliver multiple content on a single machine,he commented. The other major innovation that Wykes sees as having enhanced Category B3 product is ticket-in, ticket-out functionality - so much so he described it as“non-negotiable”when it comes to purchasing decisions. “It must be years since we bought a Category B3 machine without TITO capability and I think it’s inconceivable that we would do so again,”he added. “I do wonder whether TITO is now yesterday’s news; however, I do expect payment options to move forward again in the near future.”

company 24 Seven, the key is in the regulatory landscape. “We want to be allowed to offer additional machine features, but this is not possible under the current technical standards,” commented managing director Simon McCarthy. “Even though these features are still in operators’ premises as legacy machines, produced prior to Gambling Act 2005 came into force.” The priority for 24 Seven is to maximise both entertainment value and time on machines; an objective that could be achieved by re-introducing sought-after features that were disallowed in the 2005 Act. “These features remain popular, but unfortunately we currently have to work with what is allowed within the current stake and prize regime,” said McCarthy. “We feel that our hands are tied behind our backs when trying to be innovative in delivering games that allow the industry to provide the customer with the entertainment they want.” Whilst the current £2 stake/£500 jackpot format has been well received by players and operators, McCarthy believes there is also scope to expand the offering further. “The £2 stake/£500 Jackpot is attractive, but we should still push for at least a statutory minimum increase via the ‘triennial review’ process,” he said. With technology moving forward at a rapid pace and products such as server-based gaming becoming increasingly popular, the B3 market is a market in transition. For development companies such as 24 Seven, this means catering to existing demand while keeping one eye fixed firmly on the future. “We recognise that there are operational benefits to sever-based gaming, and that is where the strategic alliance between 24 Seven and E-Gaming comes into force,” commented McCarthy. “But we still believe that the market will invest in stand-alone, highly entertaining product and this is what we can offer through Vegas 24/7.” As the passionate B2 and B3 debate rages on and speculation continues over who will hold the reins in Westminster, the company hopes there may be a solution on the horizon. “We are looking for parity at the end of the day in the marketplace - a conclusion to the current debate,” said McCarthy. “This will allow our customers to concentrate on doing what they do best: operating entertaining products and engaging with the customer base.” According to 24 Seven’s Simon McCarthy, the industry should be able to get the best out of its B3 machines - but current legislation is standing in the way of innovation.

2413-p15-24-Essential_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 17:05 Page 5

B 2 B

Products PROJECT DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

Technology and game appeal drive Fortune Hunter success, argue RLMS Considerable investment in R&D has translated into a high level of appeal for every game in Project’s Fortune Hunter compendium.

LMS’ Chris Widdowson has highlighted what he described as the ‘bomb proof technology’ and the breadth of the compendium appeal, as the key factors behind the success of Project’s Fortune Hunter 500, B3. Widdowson, who is key account manager at RLMS,told Coinslot:“Project has succeeded in delivering an eight game compendium which genuinely appeals across the community of players typically found in an AGC or a Bingo Club. This means that each of the eight games has achieved traction and engagement with key sectors of the player base. For example, Mega Bars Big Hit, which is the second

most played game in the compendium, appeals predominately to a group which can be characterised as ‘lady shoppers’, whereas Magic Poker, the most played game, has a male dominated audience. However, all eight are simple, easy to play games and consequently, have a solid and loyal customer base.” Chris Widdowson also reserved praise for the quality of Project’s robust technology. He stated:“The feedback has been very positive. Operators, quite rightly, expect the gaming products they are investing in to be reliable and Fortune Hunter 500 has succeeded in registering machine uptime figures which are amongst the very best in the industry.”

Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

2413-p15-24-Essential_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 15:00 Page 6

B 2 B

Essential Guide to ... Category B3 Products 24 SEVEN GAMING

RLMS SALES

Introducing: Vegas 24/7

Fortune favours RLMS Sales

Fresh to the B3 market, Simon McCarthy of 24 Seven Gaming has debuted with all guns blazing - with the company’s own Vegas 24/7 machine, complimented by an exciting new range of E Gaming Multi Lotto products. 4 Seven Gaming has something for every B3 operator - available in a number of finance options to suit different budgets. The company has now concluded its successful site testing on its B3 product: Vegas 24/7, due to go into production next month. Some reworking has been carried out as a result of the initial site trial and this has added enhancements to the machine as well as adjusting the profile to better suit the needs of arcade and bingo in the UK. Vegas 24/7 is the first B3 product from 24 Seven Gaming. It’s a standalone game on a rebuild Barcrest Rio cabinet, which is retrofitted with Quixant QXI 200 PC technology. It has an attractive Las Vegas theme, with highly unique and entertaining features. “Our intention from the outset was to produce a highly entertaining and interactive game format,” says 24 Seven managing director Simon McCarthy.“We believe we have achieved this, while offering something unique to the player.As it is also very

competitively priced, it offers a niche opportunity for those looking for something different.” In addition, and to complement its B3 product range, 24 Seven are also offering an additional Multi Lotto B3 selection from E Gaming.The Multi Lotto product is distributed by 24 Seven in the UK and is currently on site trial. “We are very excited about the long-term opportunity for this product in the UK market, as the response to it has been extremely positive,” adds McCarthy.“We are now looking to include additional game content and E-Gaming has a very strong game content portfolio for us to utilise.” The E-Gaming product has already proved itself on site in thousands of European sites.“This can be part-way explained by the security of the cabinet and the reliability of the hardware,” McCarthy explains. “It is available to operators under a number of options including outright purchase, rent, profit share or a fixed daily fee. We have really thought outside-the-box in order to be competitive.”

RLMS Sales has found a future-proofed players hit in the shape of Project’s Fortune Hunter compendium of games. ational distribution firm RLMS Sales has hit a rich vein of form with the current Category B3 model N from London-based manufacturer Project. The boldly-titled Fortune Hunter is a stunning compendium comprising a range of compelling game titles that are ideally suited to the FEC and bingo sectors of the market. Presented within the classic lines of the TS22 cabinet and using Innocore technology, Fortune Hunter offers all the thrills of a £500 top payout on 25p/50p/£1 and £2 stake. It comes with eight titles on board including 50 X Cash; Golden Crowns; Cash Landings; Magic Poker; Football 500 and the iconic titles Mega Bars; Mega Bars Big Hit; and Mega Bars Hi Roller. The product is future-proofed and can be upgraded with further game releases as they come to market. And in keeping with the current trend towards cashless methods of machine play, Fortune Hunter is also available with a TiTo option. Underlining the game’s credentials, RLMS sales director Tony Glanville noted: “Project has really delivered the goods with this latest B3 model. “It has all the bases covered from the high quality cabinet right through to the operator-friendly features such as TiTo compatibility. “And, crucially, it comes with a suite of games from one of the most innovative producers in the sector that players really will want to return to time and again.”

GENESIS GAMES

Performance you can rely on Led by the aptlynamed Performer, Genesis Games has scored much success with Amatic Industries’ proven range of Category B3 cabinets and games. Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

2413-p15-24-Essential_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 15:01 Page 7

B 2 B

BLUEPRINT GAMING

B3 innovation drives Blueprint success Innovation of game design and a constantly evolving cadre of B3 content keeps Blueprint titles popular with players and operators alike, argues Andy Hall and Simon Barff. lueprint Gaming’s B3 games have consistently been in the top ten of the Coinslot charts for more than six months.The secret to this success is that the top-earning B games from online and LBOs are filtered down to become B3 content in AGC and bingo halls. “This is what sets Blueprint’s B3 product apart from its competitors,” explains Andy Hall, Blueprint gaming operations director.“We are constantly refining the offering ensuring that only those games with the strongest player pedigree are selected.” Currently,Blueprint has a complete portfolio which includes 22 games and 2 cabinets - the Vision Slant Top and the Vision Casino. Its latest B3 titles for 2015 are Thai Princess and Fortunes of Sparta, with upcoming titles Indian Dream, Kingdom of Wealth and Fortunes of the Gods due to be released shortly. Blueprint Gaming offers a mixture of game styles on B3 including three and five-reel games with both 10 and 20 win lines. “We are always looking for innovative ideas to drive the cashbox,” says Simon Barff,managing director of Blueprint’s machines division. “We are finding that the random nature of the B3 games appears to be the winning formula,much in the same way as we are seeing with our Category C compendiums - where despite a high return to player, cashbox is increasing, proving that we are in fact growing the player base.” “What’s even more reassuring is that we are seeing a good stake on our B3 games - at around £1.55 on average,” adds Barff.“This is due to our games design team making the games attractive to play at the higher stake, by putting in added bonuses to enhance the players’ experience.”

MULTI GAME PLATFORM WITH MULTI STAKE

enesis Games, UK and Eire distributor for Amatic Industries, is currently G enjoying a successful sales campaign

Released last year, the twin screen sit down is now leading the way in terms of taking performance to new levels of with the Amatic Category B3 range of player satisfaction. With 24/7 trading profiles increasingly games. The Cat B3 offering from Genesis becoming the norm in the AGC sector, Games now comes not only with the 15- catering for the needs of players’ comfort game compendium, but also with three and relaxation is paramount. Encompassing all the above mendifferent cabinet options. First, there is the X3000 19-inch twin tioned features, and with further screen cabinet. Utilising high quality enhanced ergonomics, the 22-inch sit peripherals, high grade, casino-style cabi- down is now a market leader in all senses net design and various payout and cash of the word. One of the chief benefits of the Amatic handling options, the game has enjoyed considerable success over the last few Industries range is reliability, essential in the ever increasing 24/7 nature of tradyears. The main sales thrust is now featured on ing in the UK market. With the broad product base, in terms the 22-inch Performer cabinet. Again equipped with all the features of its 19-inch of cabinet styles and game compendiums partner,the Performer also utilises high def- the Amatic Industries range of B3 prodinition monitors and enhanced sound fea- uct offered by Genesis Games is proving tures, which add to the players’enjoyment. hugely successful in the UK market.

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

Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

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B 2 B

Essential Guide to ... Category B3

Products

Analysis

ASTRA GAMES

The price is right for Astra’s latest deluxe B3 “The Category B3 segment is crying out for something new and different,” say Astra Games. So, plans are afoot to unveil an answer this call at the upcoming Northern Showcase. ith Astra’s Slotto 500 Deluxe, due to debut at the Northern Showcase in May, the company haven’t shied away from shaking B3 up a bit: both in terms of pricing and game design. Astra Games is looking to shake things up in the B3 sector of the market with a new release that will make its official industry debut at the forthcoming Northern Showcase at The Pines Hotel in Chorley on May 6 and 7.The aim, says sales and marketing director Alan Rogers, is to present a premium style Category B3 offering to customers at a price point that will make the industry sit up and take notice. Titled Slotto 500 Deluxe, this latest prospect from Astra comprises an 18-strong suite of top class games, four of which are ‘duplicate pot’ games designed to enhance player appeal.The package comes stylishly housed in the iconic and widely lauded FV600 cabinet.Taken in the round, it elevates the B3 compendium genre to a new, higher level with eye-catching looks and unrivalled playability, but without the costly price hike normally associated with a premium quality product. Rogers commented:“The B3 market is constantly evolving and here at Astra we recognise the need to keep pace with the ever-changing demands of what is becoming a very discerning player base. Slotto 500 Deluxe ticks all the right boxes - to begin with it has that all-important walk-up factor thanks to its ‘casino pedigree’ cabinet.And, vitally, it comes loaded with a fine choice of games that players will enjoy time and again.” He added:“But we also acknowledge that budgets remain tight and, consequently, operators are forced to think very prudently about how they invest in taking their businesses forward. Hence Slotto 500 Deluxe has been priced to give them a premium style product that looks and performs brilliantly, but won’t break the bank in the process.We’ll be announcing the price prior to the Northern Showcase - watch this space!” Echoing Rogers’view was games design director Andy Dinning. He commented:“The Category B3 segment is crying out for something new and different, whether that involves the style of games on offer or the pricing strategy. With Slotto 500 Deluxe Astra has managed to fulfil both those criteria. As a compendium it exudes real quality, style and playability.And on the subject of cost to the operator,there’s simply nothing that comes close at this ultra-competitive price point.”

Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2015

CATEGORYC (£1/£100 Max.)

CATEGORYB3 (£2/£500 Max.)

Single site

AGCs

This Last Week Week Name / Manufacturer

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 9

Queen We Are The Champions BFG VIP DOND BFG Alice Royal Riches ELC Jiggin Jackpots QPS DOND Next Level BFG DOND Winfall BFG DOND Box 23 BFG DOND Hyper BFG Trebble Top REF DOND Double Up 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

Fortune Hunter Project Triple 8 Barcrest Slotto 500 Astra Wish Upon a Slot Blueprint Magic Lotto Ultra Novomatics Mega Bars Big Hit Project Triple 7 Barcrest Abet Astra King of Slots Blueprint King Pots 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 5 3 2 6 4 7 -

Magic Games 100 Ultra Novomatic Magic Games 3 Novomatic Encore T7 (GP2) SG Gaming Encore T7 (GP3) SG Gaming Encore T7 (GP1) SG Gaming Find the Lady Ultimate Project Triple 7 (GP2) SG Gaming Mega Jackpots Project Bullion Bars 3 Player £100 Astra Bar X 7even Electrocoin

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

House Of Fortune (3 Player) Astra Bullion Bars (3 Player) Astra Party Games (4 Player) Astra DOND Plasma (3 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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Magic Games U/R Novomatic Pure Gold Astra Free Play 70 Project Rainbow Riches Party Barcrest Find The Lady 70 Project Party Time Arena (4 Player) Astra Win Wall Astra Bar X Diamond 7’s Electrocoin Party Games (4 Player) Astra Party Time (3 Player) Astra

Taken from a representative number of sites around the UK Supplied by Amusement Equipment Co Ltd

1 2 3 4 5

Hot Shots Reflex Fiddle a Fortune Reflex DOND Box 23 BFG Street Casino 2015 Storm Jackpot 100 Barcrest

Based on data from representative sites. Supplied by sector professional

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Wracking up Tenpin success Bandai Namco has made good on its promise of serious investment into its contract to manage arcades in Tenpin bowling centres, with new redemption material rolling out this month. andai Namco is to ramp up its young stewardship of the amusement machines in Tenpin bowling sites across the country. Since announcing the deal in July, Namco has expanded the services it provides to the operator’s bowling sites, including a full changeover of redemption tickets completed this March. The expanded relationship got off to a rapid fire start in October, 2014, as 2,700 machines were moved in just 10 days, as Bandai Namco distributed new games to Tenpin sites around the country. “We have seen excellent service and machine quality from the team at Bandai Namco,” said Graham Blackwell, commercial director at Tenpin. “Over 75 percent of our equipment is now brand new and downtime has been reduced by 50 percent. We carried out full after site training and this has resulted in a reduc-

BINGO WEXEL ADDS NEW FEATURES TO BLIS SOFTWARE ingo software developer Wexel has updated its ground-breaking Blis interB face to allow players to continue their game uninterrupted when they need to purchase more cards or tickets and keep track of their game from different perspectives. The Grid View screen lets players switch easily between the standard strip and the page view at the click of a button. Numbers are marked off on-screen when the number is tapped and previously missed numbers will be updated when tapping the current number keeping players up to speed with the game. Coinslot MARCH 27 - APRIL 2. 2015

tion in call outs. Site management have now taken ownership of their machine arcades.” In the months since the project kicked off, further sites have come under Bandai Namco’s purview. These include Doncaster, which underwent the successful installation of machines at the beginning of December, which the operator reports is showing already showing an upturn in the cashbox. In February, a redemption offering was also installed into Tenpin’s Colchester, Stafford, Exeter and Leamington Spa sites. Heading into the Easter period, Bandai Namco will continue to monitor income by category and by site to continually identify machine moves or replacements in an effort to optimise performance. “We have held 121 meetings at all levels with the Tenpin team and provided the best dedicated engi-

REDEMPTION BRING THE LIGHT oasting multi-coloured, synchronised LED lighting, the three-player alley B roller ICE Ball FX was launched at November’s IIAPA show in Florida, and is distributed within the UK by Sega Amusements. A rerelease of ICE Ball - the world’s bestselling roller machine - the FX version has been completely redesigned, and includes more than 50 individual improvements. Billed by its US manufacturer ICE as “the best alley roller offered in the world”, ICE Ball FX brings a great game experience, as well as an unparalleled light show, to any FEC environment.

2413-p26-27-Listings_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 16:53 Page 2

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2413-p30-31-Comment_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 17:41 Page 1

Coinslot March 27 - April 2, 2015

Comment Email: je@gbmedia.eu

Pub AWP: Time to adapt? Budget 2015, and the pub industry gets a break once again. Beer sales may rise, and landlords may breathe sighs of relief, but - as Chris Webster argues tax concessions will come as an opportunity missed for AWP providers if meaningful design changes are not embraced. udgetary concession on beer duty can only be welcome news to a pub industry which has been somewhat beleaguered over the course of the past decade. Irrespective of challenges posed by the smoking ban, or the treasury, or the economic privation of its customer-base, the fate of the British pub is seemingly secure. It will endure, as it has endured since preclassical times, because on a very simple level - Britons just like to drink: not at home, on a couch in front of the TV, but in company, out and about, in their local. But can the same longevity be claimed for the pub fruit-machine? The UK AWP market was undoubtedly hurt by pub closures, but it has a window of opportunity to be a comeback-kid. If we are determined to expand and revitalise the AWP offering and secure its place in pubs for the next half a century, it might be worth taking time out to reappraise its position and tackle some questions such as: are the pub-machine games of today fun? are we - as the designation suggests - providing top class

amusement to the player; have we nailed the products that make pub play worthwhile?. There are those who think the AWPs demise was already on the cards; and there are others who concede that change is an absolute must if the AWP is to continue capturing the imagination of the great British pub clientele. So, is it too bold to suggest that if it’s amusement we’re aiming to provide - let’s provide it. Let loose the software engineers and game designers - create games that 21st century people will be willing to part money for. And if that’s not realistic or viable, at the very least let’s explore fresh and outside of the box alternatives that might keep coin-op at the heart of the pub. There is a great opportunity to re-establish the gaming offering to one of our traditional outlets, albeit one that is rapidly changing.We just have to make sure we change with it and keep innovation at the forefront of our thinking. Weirdly enough, this is a real chance for growth - we just have to make it happen.

Is it just the one case for the amusements industry sir? No rabbits, no hats?

Osborne’s Budget ge joseph ewens

Three nationals what may have with her first cla

media watch

Failure to report in Business rates were firmly in the industry crosshairs before the latest budget announcement, but in its wake we’re left with something worse - less than nothing - argues Joseph Ewens. f there was one clear message that emerged from conversations with the coin-op industry in the run up to George Osborne’s fifth budget, it was the need for urgent action on business rates. Staying afloat on the high street has become a constant battle and if AGCs and their ilk are to remain afloat, leading industry figures were clear that business rates needed to be brought back in line with reality. In the end, all we got was a flimsy report not worth the paper it will never be printed on.A report that might just turn out to be a classic piece of political misdirection. It’s findings will not be known for

a full 12 months, at which point the makeup of the government will be entirely different. A new coalition, or maybe even a new majority party, will be in charge and possess little impetus to stick to any promises made before the general election. In what may be the most damning facet of this escapade, the job of launching the report was given to Liberal Democrat Danny Alexander.The chances of the Lib Dems being kingmakers again is minimal, so really, what risk do the Conservatives take if the report is quietly mothballed? It’s just one more hit for the Liberals’ tattered reputation and another stake through the heart of high street businesses.

Budget is all in the eye of the beholder, or so it would A appear, after George and co.’s number-crunching efforts were simultaneous condemned and praised in the national press last week. Perhaps this isn’t all that surprising, as half of us don’t really have a clue about the ins and outs of national economics anyway - let alone agree on its principles. There’s a lot of talk about inflation, GDP and direct and indirect taxes, but what everyone wants to know is: how’s it going to affect me? For The Observer, the answer was pretty straightforward. If you’re among the poorest and most vulnerable in society - or indeed anything but the superrich - things are only going to get worse. “Nestled underneath the fig-

ures and projections lay a manifesto: a manifesto for a more divided and less humane Britain,” the paper declared in an emotive editorial comment. Attacking claims from Osborne that living standards have risen in the past five years, The Observer cited recent figures for average household incomes from an independent think-tank that found them to be - excluding trade union and university payments at their lowest since pre-2010. A study by the same organisation, Resolution Foundation, also found that hourly wages for 22-29 year olds had nose-dived down to 1998 levels. On the bright side, The Observer pointed out, it hasn’t been so bad for everyone. Luckily for corporate moguls, FTSE 100 chief executives have seen their pay rise by a quarter in the

2413-p30-31-Comment_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 17:41 Page 2

Coinslot March 27 - April 2, 2015 31

8 Email: je@gbmedia.eu

TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

quote unquote

“ ”

“We are pleased that the government listened to the calls of the pub sector and made its third cut in beer duty in this year’s Budget.”

meant to be all hold true - it’s just that you need completely new machines and technology in there.” GAMES DESIGNER ALEXFLEETWOOD

SOUNDNET’S TOBY HOYTE ON THE CHANCELLOR’S DECISION TO CUT BEER DUTY AGAIN

“For too long we have been reactive and not proactive.”

“We were disappointed, however, that cutting VAT on tourism has again been overlooked.”

BACTA’S NEWLY ELECTED NATIONAL PRESIDENT JASON FROST SIGNALLING A CHANGE IN DIRECTION

BALPPA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PAUL KELLY RESPONDS TO THE DECISION AGAINST CUTTING VAT FOR TOURIST BUSINESSES

“The Chancellor really is a ‘Hat Trick Hero’,” she remarked. “His third, successive beer tax cut shows he has listened to consumers, publicans and brewers.”

“Why it is possible to play with higher stakes on one side of the high street and not on the other, particularly given that all licensed gaming premises (on the high street) are Age Controlled Environments and all seek to uphold the three main tenets of the 2005 Gambling Act. I have yet to receive a proper explanation for this imbalance, which baffles me.” PRAESEPE’S COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR BYRON EVANS

“The principles of what an arcade is

BRIGID SIMMONDS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE BRITISH BEER & PUB ASSOCIATION

“The stakes and prize limits do reduce content supply as an increasingly consolidating supplier base has to develop games that are only for the UK market, which effectively restricts choice for the customer.” SIMON WYKES OF GALA BINGO ON THE DILEMMA FOR THE UK’S CAT B3 MANUFACTURERS

et gets the once-over

Three nationals scrutinise the finer details of the Budget, and one contemplates what may have been left out it. Coinslot despatched its very own Imogen Goodman, with her first class degree at Cambridge University in hand, to read the papers.

last decade! We know who’ll be getting the first round in, then. Meanwhile, the ever-pragmatic Independent voiced the question on everybody’s lips: just where is the money going to come from? Not for public services - but for cuts. According to the director of the Institute of Fiscal Studies (IFS), Paul Johnson, Osborne only gave details on a pretty meagre £2bn worth of the £12bn cuts planned by the Tories. So just what will be slashed to scrape together the other £10bn? Unfortunately, The Independent - and the rest of us - may be waiting for an answer for some time. David Gauke, one of the ministers working under Osborne in the Treasury, told the BBC the Tories would provide more information “after the election”. That’s alright then - as long as we know what we’re letting ourselves in for. In The Telegraph, Allister Heath’s

B3 innovations can work for bingo clubs

analysis took a very different tack, as he lauded the Chancellor not so much for his fiscal skills but for being a damn good politician. “Was it a principled, small-c conservative, pro-market statement of intent? Of course not,” argued Heath. “But would Labour have been worse for the middle and aspiring classes, for business, for competitiveness and for investors? Of course it would, and that’s all that Mr Osborne was trying to achieve.” In fact, Heath’s only major criticism sounded like an Ed Miliband catchphrase turned back on itself. Namely, that the Chancellor hadn’t cut spending hard enough, nor fast enough. “The Tories should have been making the case for much smaller government for the past decade; it is too late now,” he wailed. Now, Heath - it’s not over until it’s over. Let’s just wait for May, shall we?

The Bingo Association chief executive explains how this vibrant sector can make the most of the technology at its fingertips.

miles baron politics 3 Gaming Machines are an essential part of the success of B any modern day licensed bingo venue. At the end of 2013, bingo clubs had an average of approximately 12 B3 machines per venue, which represents approximately 25 percent of the overall average machine estimate, the remainder being largely Category C machines.These machines (B3s) deliver on average just under half of all machine income in bingo clubs. Provisional results for 2014 suggest that that the number of B3 machines had grown slightly,as had income, with all machine-generated income as a proportion of the bingo club sales mix also increasing slightly. Whilst these machines represent an increasing part of the bingo club offer, it has to be remembered that machine play is primarily focused on intervals,when the core bingo product is not available.This means that any bingo club machine estate needs to be able to cope with short bursts of high-volume customer demand. With regard to stakes and prizes, regulators have made it clear that any changes to limits will need to be made with the appropriate technology and data collection capabilities to better enable the identification and management of harm and problem gambling. This relationship between technology and harm prevention would lead to the logical conclusion that the more advanced the available evidence is, the more able operators are to identify harm, and the less relevant the stakes and prizes limits become. Server Based Games (SBG) offer

more exciting and varied machine content. With SBG, it is easier to keep content fresh and to switch in and out of different games - something that is widely recognised by operators. Ticket In Ticket Out (TiTO) in bingo absolutely improves the customer experience and for the operator, in terms of efficiency, it makes a material improvement. Many customers still prefer to use cash and some are suspicious of the technology, but as the bingo market evolves and customer profiles change, acceptance will grow although it will, of course, be gradual, as was the case with handheld tablets. However, TiTO does allow for better SR controls and anti moneylaundering procedures. For these reasons TiTO and the move to cashless transactions will continue to be the overall direction of travel for bingo clubs in the future. Playing bingo remains the key and primary reason to visit a licensed bingo premise, however, all machines including B3s should be seen as one of the many products offered as part of the bingo experience. On average fewer than 20 percent of customers play machines in the retail environment compared to 100 percent playing the game of bingo. If the bingo industry innovates, invests and grows in the light of the duty change, and attendance continues to stabilise and even grow, then B3 machines as part of the machines mix will continue to complement the club experience and underpin this great social and community-based activity,assisting in providing future returns that will in turn stimulate further growth.

2413-p32-newsweek_Coinslot NEW 24/03/2015 14:46 Page 1

Coinslot March 27 - April 2, 2015

Newsweek

8 Email: je@gbmedia.eu TO COMMENT ON ANY ARTICLE

UK EXHIBITORS PREPARE FOR DESERT DEALING

BALPPA promises summer conference of Titanic proportion

aking place between April 14 and 16 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the Dubai Entertainment & Leisure Show (DEAL) 2015 is open to all those keen to enter the burgeoning amusement market in the Middle East. Billed as the largest trade event of its kind in the region, and now in its 21st year, the show will deliver a showcase to the wares of more than 200 companies from all over the world, including UK exhibitors Innovative Technology, Whitehouse Leisure Swan Events and HB

embership of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA) won’t be a prerequisite for attending the organisation’s summer conference in June: family and friends will be welcomed too. The event - which will run from June 2 to 4 out of the Hilton Templepatrick Hotel, Golf

and Country Club outside Belfast - will offer conference-goers a day of golf on the 18-hole course of the nearby Castle Upton Estate, and will include visits to a whole host of local attractions: including Bushmills Distillery, the Giant’s Causeway, and a stop at member-attraction Barry’s Amusements. Meanwhile, the body’s

Leisure. In 2014, over 5,000 visitors attended DEAL, who over a three-day period spent in excess of £184m. US COIN-OP INDUSTRY GATHERS IN VEGAS

his week sees the American Amusement Machine Asso-

ciation’s (AAMA) Amusement Expo take place at the Las Vegas Convention Centre, Las Vegas, Nevada. In addition to the trade-show featuring a host of leading US suppliers and

manufacturers, the event will also include a day of educational workshops, with guest speakers discussing salesmanship, redemption operation and cashless payment.

traditional Gala Dinner will take place at Titanic, Belfast - the world’s largest Titanic-themed attraction. After touring the six floors of the exhibition, diners will make their way to the Titanic Suite, where they will enjoy a three-course meal amid surroundings modelled on the doomed ship’s opulent interiors.

BINGO ASSOCIATION REVS UP FOR AGM he Bingo Association will soon be holding its Annual General Meeting to set out its priorities for the coming year and

take stock of last year’s progress. A date has been set for 29th April. Venue to be confirmed.

Calendar APRIL 2015 8-9 FEEL Expo Corferias, Bogota, Colombia www.feelexpo.com

14-16 DEAL2015 Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE www.dealmiddleeastshow.com

14-16 DEAL 2015 Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE www.dealmiddleeastshow.com

20-21Tech15 ExCeL London Exhibition Centre, London, UK www.techx15.com 29 Bingo Association AGM, TBC www.bingo-association.co.uk

29-30 Marketing Week Live Olympia Central, London, UK www.marketingweeklive.co.uk

MAY 2015 6-7 Northern Showcase 2015 The Pines Hotel, Preston Road, Clayton-le-Woods, Chorley, Lancs, PR6 7ED www.crowndirect.co.uk

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