Amid Challenges, Bingo Halls Adapt to Changing Times and Attract a Younger Audience

Bingo halls have traditionally been synonymous with a slightly older demographic and a bygone era of entertainment. But in a world of digital distractions, changing regulations, and the ongoing struggle of the pandemic, the industry is seeing a resurgence with a new, younger crowd.

As traditional entertainment venues have faced tough times in recent years, bingo halls have not been immune to the challenges that have unfolded. The indoor smoking ban in 2007 was just the beginning, followed by the economic woes and the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, there is hope on the horizon as operators work diligently to reinvent the bingo experience, bringing in a fresh and diverse clientele.

Jackie Marshall, assistant manager at Mecca Bingo on Clough Road in Hull, has seen it all. She has been a part of the bingo community since the 1990s and is well-versed in the challenges the industry has faced. “The smoking ban was a bit of a shock,” she admits, referencing the legislation that marked the start of a challenging period for bingo halls and other traditional venues. “We did lose some business. It took a while to bring them back. Then we had Covid.”

The Bingo Association, the trade association for all licensed bingo operators in Britain, has reported a decline in the number of bingo halls in the country, with approximately 330 in pre-Covid days reduced to 262 today. The impact is evident, as bingo halls like the Cecil in Hull have had to close their doors. Nevertheless, signs of recovery are emerging as the Bingo Association notes a return of customers to these venues.

Bingo halls are navigating these challenging waters by offering more than just traditional bingo. Outside Mecca Bingo, an LED ticker screen beckons people to “come and join us for a great experience.” According to Ms. Marshall, bingo has evolved, attracting a more diverse audience, including a growing number of younger customers. “Bingo is generational,” she explains. “For many people, the first place they come when they turn 18 is here.”

The sense of community within bingo halls is something that has not changed. Ms. Marshall emphasizes that bingo halls are close-knit communities, where friendships are formed, and people look out for one another. “It is a safe environment,” she adds. “If one of your regulars misses a couple of nights, you will often put the feelers out, just to check they are okay.”

While bingo is a form of gambling, it is often seen as a gentler way to try one’s luck. However, some halls have faced criticism for hosting higher-stakes slot machines alongside the traditional game. The introduction of electronic bingo units has offered more options to players, allowing them to choose between traditional paper and electronic versions.

Inside the bingo hall, play is serious business, with winners’ cheers contrasting starkly with losers’ exasperated exhalations. Jackie Marshall occasionally takes on the role of the caller, although she humbly acknowledges that there are professional callers with a distinct skill set.

Bingo has a rich history that stretches back centuries, with its origins dating back to the late 16th century in Italy. Carolyn Downs, a bingo historian from Lancaster University, mentions that Americans popularized the name “bingo” in the 1930s, but the game was being played in Britain as early as 1926. After World War I, bingo found a home in ex-servicemen’s clubs and working men’s clubs. By the 1950s, its popularity was soaring.

Despite its ups and downs, bingo remains a beloved pastime, especially among students seeking an affordable night out. Bingo halls have adapted, offering unique and entertaining experiences, such as drag queen bingo, to attract a more diverse audience. Myles Baron, the chief executive of The Bingo Association, notes that the industry has faced turbulence, with attendance dropping by 30-40% compared to pre-pandemic levels by May 2021. However, there are signs of recovery, with halls focusing on improving the customer experience and offering quality food.

Bingo may be evolving, but it continues to provide a welcoming and community-oriented space for people of all ages. As bingo halls adapt to changing times, they are not just preserving their tradition but also rejuvenating their appeal for a new generation of players. In the face of various challenges, bingo remains a timeless and beloved game, proving its resilience and adaptability to endure through the ages. So, whether you prefer the classic dabber and paper or the modern electronic unit, bingo is a game that transcends generations and brings people together.