Mecca Bingo is considering the closure of its clubs in Birkenhead, Exeter, St Helens and Taunton as concerns grow over the long-term profitability of the sites, with the group undertaking the “difficult decision” in order to ensure it retains “a sustainable estate of vibrant community clubs.”
Mecca Bingo has entered into consultations on the future of its clubs in Birkenhead, Exeter, St Helens, and Taunton, as “considerable” maintenance bills affect their long-term profitability.
With the lease on the clubs due to expire in June, the group is taking the “difficult decision” in order to ensure it retains “a sustainable estate of vibrant community clubs” while minimising maintenance costs.
“The proposed closures relate to venues that have not been commercially viable for some time,” said a spokesperson. “Our leases on both Exeter and Taunton are reaching an end and both venues require significant maintenance, which makes it challenging for them to remain open.”
Regarding the St Helens and Birkenhead sites, Mecca added that the upcoming lease renewal date “has given us an opportunity to review the viability of the clubs which have unfortunately been unprofitable for some time and also require considerable maintenance.”
“We are currently in a consultation process with colleagues at both sites, with the venues proposed to close on Sunday 7 June.”
“These are difficult decisions, but we are working hard to ensure we have a sustainable estate of vibrant community clubs. We are currently in consultation with affected colleagues and will advise our team and our customers once a final decision is reached early next month.”
The announcement was met with disappointment from players, with the St Helens Star noting its local club has been “a fixture for local bingo players for decades,” while the Wirral Globe noted the Birkenhead site “was due to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2027.”
The cost of rising costs
Mecca Bingo said… “These are difficult decisions, but we are working hard to ensure we have a sustainable estate of vibrant community clubs. ..
Originally published on Coinslot on May 18, 2026. Republished with permission.