Nicole Garrett took over the reins of the Bingo Association on Monday. One day later she was listening to the Social Market Foundation propose an existential threat to the leisure activity on Britain’s high street. Welcome to the world of gambling – and it’s crazy opposition.
The Bingo Association represents the land-based bingo industry – venues which are deeply embedded in local communities. The proposals set out in the report would have a significant impact on bingo clubs and the communities and jobs which they support.
A visit to a bingo club is first and foremost a social activity in a safe and inclusive environment. For many, they are also a lifeline in tackling loneliness and social isolation. Club employees will often know their customers personally – not only their name but their lives, their families and who they play bingo with.
The abolition of bingo duty in the last budget allowed the industry to look forward to the future with optimism, as well as paving the way for investment in clubs and in some cases allowing the opening of new clubs. For others, it allowed them to return to profitability and no longer face closure.
It would be disappointing to see a change in the overall tax landscape set back these plans and ultimately may lead to club closures. It is essential that we protect bingo clubs which are part of the fabric of the communities in which they are based.
Originally published on Coinslot on July 6, 2026. Republished with permission.