Pub body calls for rise in Cat C stakes and prize

BBPA Responds to Latest Government Review of Gaming Machines and Social Responsibility Measures The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) has responded to the Government’s consultation on gaming machines and social responsibility proposals, and has called on the Government to ensure that Category C amusement machines (also known as fruit machines) in pubs remain attractive to customers, so that they continue to form a vital revenue stream for Britain’s pubs. In a detailed response, the BBPA is calling for the Government to allow a modest rise in stakes and prizes for pub machines. The BBPA is also calling for an [ ]
http://www.coinslot.co.uk/2018/01/22/pub-body-rise-cat-c-stakes-prize/

Pub body calls for rise in Cat C stakes and prize

BBPA Responds to Latest Government Review of Gaming Machines and Social Responsibility Measures The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) has responded to the Government’s consultation on gaming machines and social responsibility proposals, and has called on the Government to ensure that Category C amusement machines (also known as fruit machines) in pubs remain attractive to customers, so that they continue to form a vital revenue stream for Britain’s pubs. In a detailed response, the BBPA is calling for the Government to allow a modest rise in stakes and prizes for pub machines. The BBPA is also calling for an [ ] The post Pub body calls for rise in Cat C stakes and prize appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/22/pub-body-rise-cat-c-stakes-prize/

Peter Davies’ Playdium Picks

After going One Step Beyond with Second City Leisure’s Andrew Jones, this week Playdium Picks Says Relax with Peter Davies, managing director of Gamestec Playnation Group, as he straps on his air guitar, turns up the speakers and brings out his rebellious side. Davies began his career in the gaming industry with Music Hire Group back in 1989 working in account and product management roles before progressing into senior management. Senior roles held include Sales Director at BWB and Vivid Gaming (both Barcrest Group companies), Product Development Director at Barcrest Group, Business Development Director at Games Media and latterly [ ] The post Peter Davies’ Playdium Picks appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/19/peter-davies-playdium-picks/

SB Machines presents a ride for all seasons

SB Machines, purveyors of the finest quality Italian children’s rides, will showcase a range of head-turning new products at EAG which, they predict, will reflect a fresh approach to destination family entertainment across the UK arcade sector. Visitors to this week’s show will discover the much anticipated Train Carousel ride with video, described by SB as having “wow factor in spades”. It will be joined by the interactive Scooby Doo ride, a licensed product that squeezes masses of entertainment into just a small footprint, enabling it to be slotted into the tightest of locations. The company will also present [ ] The post SB Machines presents a ride for all seasons appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/19/sb-machines-presents-ride-seasons/

Simon Barff: Expanding the Blueprint footprint

With its game content well established in the pub sector, Simon Barff, managing director at Blueprint Gaming faces the questions and explains how increasing uptake in the bingo and AGC market is shaping an exciting 2018 for the company. Coinslot: How was 2017 for Blueprint? Simon Barff: Blueprint had a great year in 2017, strengthening our position as the leading supplier of digital Category C games into the UK pub retail sector with King of Games – a trend that we know is set to continue into 2018. In addition, we are seeing a greater takeup of digital product [ ] The post Simon Barff: Expanding the Blueprint footprint appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/19/barff-expanding-blueprint-footprint/

Ireland’s Gambling Control Bill needs update after four-year hiatus, government says

The Irish Minister of State has reiterated that change is coming for the country’s gambling industry, but how many times have stakeholders heard that claim? The process of change in Ireland’s gambling legislation continues to drag on at a glacial pace, with seemingly little evidence to show that the government is ready to press the accelerator pedal just yet. Instead, the industry faces another amendment to the 2013 Gambling Control Bill which will see the introduction of an independent regulatory body. The original recommendation contained within the bill was that an industry watchdog be set up within the Justice [ ] The post Ireland’s Gambling Control Bill needs update after four-year hiatus, government says appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/19/irelands-gambling-control-bill-update/

Video and VR make waves at the Docklands

Advanced technology has enabled increased creativity at this year’s EAG in the form of new virtual reality, video games and video redemption in which water is making a real splash. While the amusements industry often comes under challenge from in-home entertainment, when it comes to advancing technology, this year’s EAG has answered back in a big way: “We can do it better”. Indeed, the video and virtual reality pieces on display at 2018’s show have been extremely popular with visitors, from Bandai Namco’s immersive virtual reality unit Mayan Adventure, to Harry Levy’s six player VR Family simulator. “We’ve [ ] The post Video and VR make waves at the Docklands appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/19/video-vr-docklands/

Morse Watchmans to bring out-of-the-box solutions to Intersec 2018

Morse Watchmans is showcasing their key control solutions at Intersec 2018 with KeyWatcher Touch and KeyRings, while also introducing the next evolution in asset management with AssetWatcher. At their booth (Stand No: E10) Morse Watchmans will be showcasing both KeyWatcher Touch, the best-in-breed key control solution, and AssetWatcher, which brings secure storage into the modern era with RFID technology. “Morse Watchmans is evolving asset management systems with AssetWatcher,” said Fernando Pires, CEO at Morse Watchmans. “AssetWatcher adapts many of the features that our clients have come to rely on with KeyWatcher and implements RFID tracking technology to provide the [ ] The post Morse Watchmans to bring out-of-the-box solutions to Intersec 2018 appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/19/morse-watchmans-intersec-2018/

It’s time to talk tech says Reflex Gaming’s Quentin Stott

The need to set the parameters for technical standards is now a matter of urgency, the industry is saying. Without a definitive guideline, innovation and development will continue to be stifled by a framework that just doesn’t move quickly enough. Calls for the Gambling Commission to come to the table are now beginning to echo. Time for the regulator to show its will. It’s time to re-open the dialogue with the Gambling Commission on technical standards, according to Reflex Gaming managing director Quentin Stott. Talking on the eve of this week’s EAG expo in London, Stott, no stranger to [ ] The post It s time to talk tech says Reflex Gaming s Quentin Stott appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/18/time-talk-tech-industry/

Triennial Review: Last chance to speak up

As Bacta prepares its final Triennial submission, which will include the recently released Cebr report, operators have until only 23 January to submit their own views and the ABB has less than a week to make its data fully transparent. Bacta has released its publicly-available report for the Triennial submission, the ABB has cherry-picked figures within its secretive KPMG report, and with less than a week remaining now is the last chance for operators to have their say on the stakes and prizes of the industry. Ahead of the 23 January deadline, CEO of Bacta John [ ] The post Triennial Review: Last chance to speak up appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/18/triennial-review-last-chance/

Dreamland investment secures future and ends administration

The administrators running one of the UK’s oldest surviving amusement parks have said it has secured an investment of over £35m that will ensure its future and more than 300 jobs. Since it reopened to much fanfare in 2015, Dreamland Margate has struggled financially and was facing going into liquidation, which many in the Kent resort feared meant losing the historic attraction for good. The seaside amusement park has been run by directors from Duff & Phelps since May 2016, who revealed that the new investment has come from Cayman Islands-registered hedge fund Arrowgrass, its previous owner. They said [ ] The post Dreamland investment secures future and ends administration appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/18/dreamland-investment-secures-future/

Impact of £2 FOBT stake on LBO sector is well wide of the mark

New figures published this week by esteemed analysts Cebr indicate that the government is way out in its assessment of how badly a £2 stake will impact the LBO sector. Commissioned by Bacta, the 60-page report certainly packs a punch. Predicted losses to the UK bookmaking industry resulting from a reduction in FOBT stake to £2 are being wildly exaggerated according to a study commissioned by trade body Bacta. The shortfall in annual gross gambling yield, says the Centre for Economic and Business Research (CEBR), will be £335m, nearly 47 per cent less than the £639m projected by the [ ] The post Impact of £2 FOBT stake on LBO sector is well wide of the mark appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/18/impact-fobt-stake-lbo-sector/

Playdium income continues to be driven by TouchTunes app

The Playdium jukebox continues to set new income records with operators and licensees citing the growing influence of the TouchTunes app, widely regarded as the world’s most successful jukebox app. Following pre-Christmas market feedback that app income was overtaking coinage as the dominant or primary source of income, Lee Wells, landlord of The Deck public house, Perranporth, Cornwall has become the latest industry source to confirm the role of the mobile app in making the Playdium a compelling, 21st century entertainment experience. Wells said: “It’s not just customers who love the app it’s my staff as well, largely because [ ] The post Playdium income continues to be driven by TouchTunes app appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/18/playdium-income-driven-touchtunes-app/

EAG kicks off with new products and plenty of personality

EAG 2018 is underway, bringing an industry spread across the UK’s high-streets and coastlines to one focal point: London’s ExCeL. And it seems to have started with much promise. On Tuesday 16 January EAG opened to an excited audience from both the UK and abroad, with manufacturers and amusements operators convening in London’s ExCeL Centre to bring together the best the industry has to offer. Stealing the limelight at the start of the show were this year’s much-anticipated virtual reality units, with companies such as Harry Levy and Bandai Namco presenting their tested and proven machines for visitors to [ ] The post EAG kicks off with new products and plenty of personality appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/17/eag-new-products-plenty-personality/

Plans officially lodged for a new £12m hotel at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Britain’s most popular amusement park, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, is hoping to build on the success of its 15-year-old Big Blue Hotel and offer even more accommodation to visitors. Blackpool Pleasure Beach has officially submitted plans to build a £12m 120-bedroom hotel and conference centre on its site to Blackpool Council. The application described the project as having the potential to provide “a huge improvement to the visual appearance” on a “prominent” corner site on the edge of the Pleasure Beach, which will “provide new employment and enhance the local economy”. A detailed blueprint lodged with the council shows [ ] The post Plans officially lodged for a new £12m hotel at Blackpool Pleasure Beach appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/17/12m-hotel-blackpool-pleasure-beach/

Pub retailer views add weight to digital tipping point

It’s been a long time coming, but that the industry is now gradually moving towards a digital gaming future. Tony Guy of Admiral Taverns explains. Tony Guy, a key industry figure from the pub retail sector has offered a clear indication of the direction of travel for low stake, low prize gaming in pubs, with digital emerging as the preferred destination. The head of machines at Admiral Taverns advocated a moderate approach to engaging with the players, saying: “We fully embrace the digital era and whilst not aggressively pushing, we are certainly encouraging more movement from analogue to digital.” [ ] The post Pub retailer views add weight to digital tipping point appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/17/pub-retailer-digital-tipping-point/

Analysis: The FOBT issue unlikely to go anyway any time soon

As a year of political scrutiny for the wider gambling industry came to a close, Regulus Partners reviewed how gambling was treated by Parliament in December, concluding that the scrutiny will continue into 2018 especially when it comes to FOBTs. Westminster’s microscope zoomed in on the gambling industry in December, with gambling consultants Regulus Partners stating that “this political vulnerability is likely to get worse before it gets better”. A large part of this conclusion is the two reviews due this year; firstly the Triennial Review, but also Labour’s own review which Regulus believe “is likely [ ] The post Analysis: The FOBT issue unlikely to go anyway any time soon appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/17/analysis-fobt-issue/

Plans officially lodged for a new £12m hotel at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Britain’s most popular amusement park, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, is hoping to build on the success of its 15-year-old Big Blue Hotel and offer even more accommodation to visitors. Blackpool Pleasure Beach has officially submitted plans to build a £12m 120-bedroom hotel and conference centre on its site to Blackpool Council. The application described the project as having the potential to provide “a huge improvement to the visual appearance” on a “prominent” corner site on the edge of the Pleasure Beach, which will “provide new employment and enhance the local economy”. A detailed blueprint lodged with the council shows [ ] The post Plans officially lodged for a new £12m hotel at Blackpool Pleasure Beach appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/16/12m-hotel-blackpool-pleasure-beach/

CHIPS to make latest wheelchair presentation at EAG

Four year-old, Shakira-Leigh Jolley who lives in Quorn, Leicestershire, is the latest recipient of a powered wheelchair funded by the gaming industry charity, CHIPS. Shakira, who has Cerebral Palsy which affects her balance and limits her mobility, will receive her bespoke chair at a presentation taking place at 11.30am, Wednesday 17th January in the Bacta Lounge at the EAG show. Linda Lindsay, co-founder of CHIPS said: “I’m delighted to be able to make our latest presentation in front of the industry that has contributed so much to the CHIPS charity. Since our formation in 2001 we have raised over [ ] The post CHIPS to make latest wheelchair presentation at EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/16/chips-latest-wheelchair-presentation-eag/

GeWeTe reports successful 2017

Cash handling provider GeWeTe has reported a strong performance for 2017 resulting in a considerable increase in business outside of its native Germany. According to sales manager Mark Edmundson, that growth has been particularly noticeable in the UK backed by an encouraging increase in the number of new customers in the latter part of the year. On the subject of developing trends, he confirmed: “We have seen an increase in ticket systems, membership systems and sports betting applications and the indications are that this will continue throughout 2018. “Our Cash Recycler continues to be a popular ‘all-in-one’ solution with [ ] The post GeWeTe reports successful 2017 appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/16/gewete-reports-successful-2017/

App opens up Playdium income

“The income earning potential has been boosted by the power and appeal of the TouchTunes mobile App,” says James Luck, TouchTunes commercial director. Talking ahead of the EAG expo next week,Luck confirmed that the app’s performance has reinforced its role as “an absolutely essential part of the operator’s armoury”. He told Coinslot: “The TouchTunes mobile app gives the user total control, enabling him or her to take on the role of DJ and play the jukebox from their phone. “This marriage of smartphone and smart jukebox transforms the player experience, bringing the jukebox bang up to date in terms [ ] The post App opens up Playdium income appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/16/app-opens-playdium-income/

Bingo industry to come together at ICE London

Miles Baron, Chief Executive Officer of The Bingo Association, has issued an open invitation to operators and regulators to visit the Bingo Pavilion at ICE London and ‘join the conversation.’ Speaking ahead of the 2018 edition of ICE London, the world’s biggest business-to-business gaming event, he said: The Bingo Association encourages all members to attend ICE at some point during the three days if only to meet up with colleagues and suppliers. The Bingo Pavilion is building on the success of last year when operators and suppliers alike were very positive about the space at the show and the focus [ ] The post Bingo industry to come together at ICE London appeared first on Coinslot.
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NRM deliver mobile applications for Bingo and AGC sectors

NRM, the independently owned gaming technology and software solutions provider, is celebrating an industry first following the successful deployment of ground-breaking customer facing mobile applications for both the Bingo and AGC sectors. The applications, which deliver a wide range of features and benefits for players and venues, have been successfully trialled with the co-operation of Praesepe, Britain’s leading low stake, gaming entertainment provider. Andrew Ludlow, Managing Director and Co-Owner of NRM said: “Praesepe operate a highly progressive policy in terms of providing technology companies with access to what is the biggest AGC and Bingo focus group in the UK industry [ ] The post NRM deliver mobile applications for Bingo and AGC sectors appeared first on Coinslot.
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BALLY WULFF introducing the LUX Generation to ICE

Armed with creative concepts and its new product line, BALLY WULFF is set to appear as an exhibitor at the ICE Totally Gaming trade fair in London in 2018. From 6-8 February, the long-established company will be exhibiting an impressive product portfolio for the international market at stand no. N4-260. In autumn 2017, the Berlin gambling machine manufacturer launched the LUX housing generation on the German market. A success across the board, and one that ICE visitors from all over the world can now see for themselves. Interested attendees can test the new games packages at their leisure or [ ] The post BALLY WULFF introducing the LUX Generation to ICE appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/16/bally-wulff-lux-ice/

AMATIC to celebrate 25th anniversary at EAG

AMATIC Industries will be exhibiting at the forthcoming EAG show that will take place between 16-18 January at London s ExCel Centre. AMATIC Industries can be found on the Genesis Games stand #225. Genesis Games is the long-standing partner for AMATIC Industries in the UK and Eire. Visitors can look forward to seeing the latest gaming innovations from this MULTI GAME pioneer – both in the B3 and Cat C categories. The focus will be on the latest cabinets and the new, exciting games. The AMAROX C24 is with immediate effect available for the UK B3 category – the ideal [ ] The post AMATIC to celebrate 25th anniversary at EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/15/amatic-celebrate-25th-eag/

Petition launched to bring Trump to Clacton-on-sea

A controversial bid has been launched to bring Donald Trump to the Essex seaside town of Clacton-on-sea. Sad! Ex-Ukip councillor Andy Pemberton says he was angered when Greenwich Council banned the leader of the free world from entering the London borough on his state visit to Britain this year, so he started a petition to bring the US billionaire president to the tourist town of Clacton-on-Sea. Pemberton said: “President Trump is the voice of the silent majority in the USA and speaks for many British voters and many people in Clacton as well.” Fake news? Well Pemberton was [ ] The post Petition launched to bring Trump to Clacton-on-sea appeared first on Coinslot.
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Mediatheme launch app for entertainment management

Touch screen entertainment specialists Mediatheme has launched an app to manage pub, club and hotel entertainment. The Pronto app is available on both Apple and Android platforms, and allows quiz participation anywhere The Entertainer (a Mediatheme entertainment system) is installed. Location enabled, with instant updates and full-service support, the app can be used for individual or team participation. It will also be available for multi-venue leagues and communities. “There’s no doubt Pronto is the quiz future for pubs, campuses and venues,” Mediatheme head of corporate development Bina Sitaram said. The Entertainer touch screen entertainment system is a business tool [ ] The post Mediatheme launch app for entertainment management appeared first on Coinslot.
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Mark Miller: Reinvesting to offset government failures

Like  many operators, Mark Miller of Millers Amusements believes the government doesn’t have what it takes to do the right thing regarding the Triennial Review. While FOBTs continue to ruin the reputation of the wider industry, Miller is working hard and reinvesting to keep is arcade in ship-shape to provide maximum value to customers. “You’ve got to keep reinvesting, you’ve got to keep reinvesting,” Mark Miller, owner of Millers Amusements said, reinforcing his operating mantra. “If you don’t reinvest you risk your arcade getting a name as bad as the bookmakers. Some still have vinyl floors and painted walls, [ ] The post Mark Miller: Reinvesting to offset government failures appeared first on Coinslot.
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Reflex Gaming to introduce GamePro at EAG Expo

After a year in development, EAG 2018 will see Reflex introduce their state of the art GamePro cabinet, which they believe will be a firm favourite for operators and players alike. Reflex Gaming will be using the forthcoming EAG in London to launch its new all metal construction GamePro cabinet. Over 12–months in development and testing, GamePro is powered by state of the art technology, delivering a host of benefits for venues, machine operators and players alike. GamePro will house all of Reflex Gaming’s new B3 compendiums with a phased introduction of Category C content taking place through 2018. [ ] The post Reflex Gaming to introduce GamePro at EAG Expo appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/15/reflex-gaming-introduce-gamepro-eag-expo/

Bacta: Driving a progressive agenda for the entire industry

Bacta chief executive John White believes the industry has some hard work ahead of it. New innovations in product technology, restoring the public faith in the gaming industry and re- energising the amusements and coin-op sector by placing it at the heart of the economic and social community is on the agenda. It’s a tall ask, but as White suggests, it’s something this industry has been doing all along. Coinslot: Looking back on the type of year the gambling industry has had, how successful do you feel Bacta have been in regards to its policy objectives? Do you think [ ] The post Bacta: Driving a progressive agenda for the entire industry appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/15/bacta-agenda-industry/

Weston-super-Mare pier prepares to invest in innovation

With an overall strong arcade performance despite unfortunate weather in crucial periods, Weston-super-Mare pier owner Michelle Michael is heading to EAG in hunt of further innovation. Following a seven figure investment at the start of 2017, Michelle Michael, owner of Weston-super-mare pier, was impressed with last seasons machine takings, despite the worst of the weather coming at the worst possible times. Indeed, throughout the year Somerset s most popular resort was hit by showers and storms at crucial school and bank holiday periods, impacting visitor numbers heavily. While Michael was disappointed, the investments at the start of the year still [ ] The post Weston-super-Mare pier prepares to invest in innovation appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/15/weston-super-mare-innovation/

Cost of £2 stake to bookmakers lower than claimed

The cost of a clampdown on fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) is being exaggerated, new independent research suggests. Analysis from the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), commissioned by Bacta, the trade association representing the UK amusements sector, shows that the economic impact on bookmakers of lower FOBT stakes could be significantly less than existing estimates have suggested. Its model projects that industry losses from a £2 stake could be up to 47 percent lower than suggested by the government’s initial impact assessment, with a £335m reduction in annual Gross Gambling Yield to high street betting shops, against the [ ] The post Cost of £2 stake to bookmakers lower than claimed appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/12/cost-2-stake-bookmakers-lower-claimed/

SUZOHAPP Bill-to-Bill™ and MFL® tested by European Central Bank

Two products in the SUZOHAPP range were last month recognised for their security by the European Central Bank (ECB): the Bill-to-Bill™ banknote recycler and the MFL® banknote validator. The ECB is focused on the fight against counterfeiting through law enforcement, technical analysis and judicial cooperation, stressing the importance of installing only acceptance and control systems certified annually on every piece of equipment. The ECB regularly tests banknote equipment with a selection of the counterfeits most frequently seen in circulation, and publishes a list of machines and devices that have passed the test in order to help cash handlers and [ ] The post SUZOHAPP Bill-to-Bill™ and MFL® tested by European Central Bank appeared first on Coinslot.
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It’s showtime for FatCat Softworks at EAG

FatCat Softworks are presenting two new products at the upcoming EAG International and VAE. The FatCat “Ace Of Games” Video AWP compendium not only looks fantastic, it also places itself in a unique position in the market by taking all the benefits of a multi-game video AWP and combining it with exclusive SWP content. Meanwhile, the company will also present the “It’s Showtime” AWP compendium, which will “taking all the benefits of a single game analogue AWP and marrying it with the modern video game play the modern player wants,” a spokesperson said. The post It’s showtime for FatCat Softworks at EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
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Karen Cooke: The tech at EAG & VAE to be “cutting-edge”

It’s all down to the EAG Expo next week as the industry assembles for its most important business outing of the year. Organiser Karen Cooke, a veteran of industry trade exhibitions, talks to Coinslot about the development of the Bacta flagship event, and why this year, more than any other, it’s a show not to miss. How has EAG evolved over the years to incorporate a wider range of companies involved in the amusements industry? Karen Cooke: There is no doubt that throughout the last nine years EAG International and VAE has evolved to appeal to exhibitors and visitors from [ ] The post Karen Cooke: The tech at EAG & VAE to be cutting-edge appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/12/karen-cooke-tech-eag/

Astra Games’ VIP range open to all at EAG

Manufacturer Astra Games head to the Excel this year hoping to wow the industry with a lineup of the very latest gaming innovation, fronted by the newly licensed, Austin Powers. The Bridged-based company will be showing a variety of product styles allied to ancillary equipment including End of Bank promotional screens. Astra’s EAG collection will also comprise of Elemental Dragons in both Cat C fully switchable and in fixed Cat D “Classic” option both housed in the three-player WOW cabinet; Ibet 100; alongside versions of Magic Games Cat C, Magic Games B3 and Astra B3, all presented in the [ ] The post Astra Games’ VIP range open to all at EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/12/astra-games-vip-range/

Bacta finalises its consultation response

Two weeks to go and the industry is getting its case ready for the government’s final review of stakes and prizes. It’s a call to arms. We are now approaching the end game and Bacta is close to finalising its response to the Consultation Document, confirmed John White, Bacta’s CEO. The UK’s leading trade body for the amusements and gaming industry is ready to fight the battle for a fairer deal on the high street for its members, who felt slighted by the government s Triennial Review of stakes and prizes,described by some antagonists within the sector as “a waste [ ] The post Bacta finalises its consultation response appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/12/bacta-finalises-consultation-response/

Scottish Government rules out controversial ‘tourism tax’

A major win for operators and tourism as a whole came just before Christmas, with the Scottish government confirming that plans for a ‘tourist tax’ in Edinburgh or any other Scottish cities will not go ahead. Willie Macleod, executive director,BHA Scotland, said: “The Scottish government s firm commitment to rule out a ‘tourist tax’ is fantastic news for our members, but most importantly for all visitors to the country. “Proposals for a ‘tourist tax’ such as those from Edinburgh City Council would have resulted in an unfair charge levied indiscriminately on all consumers simply wanting to [ ] The post Scottish Government rules out controversial ‘tourism tax’ appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/12/scottish-government-rules-controversial/

New DCMS leader appointed weeks before final FOBT decision

Following a cabinet reshuffle on 8 January, Matt Hancock will be the Secretary of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport the man that decides the fate of the UK’s high-street gaming landscape. Matt Hancock, the MP for West Suffolk, has been promoted to Secretary of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) following Monday’s government cabinet reshuffle, and will take the final decision on the Triennial Review and the maximum stake of FOBTs. Hancock has served the DCMS as Minister of Digital & Culture since 2016, and replaces Karen Bradley as leader of the department overseeing UK media and culture; [ ] The post New DCMS leader appointed weeks before final FOBT decision appeared first on Coinslot.
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Whitehouse Leisure to host three stands at EAG International & VAE

Whitehouse Leisure, a supplier of licenced and generic plush and redemption prizes, will launch new products across three stands at this year’s EAG International. WHL Stand 430 will be the home of the latest in licensed plush, brands topping the list for 2018 include new movie properties Peter Rabbit, Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom, Sherlock Gnomes and Barbie. Whitehouse Leisure have a whole host of must-have plush from Five Nights at Freddy’s, Angry Birds Hatchlings, Alvin & the Chipmunks, Grumpy Cat, Gummibar & Friends, Paw Patrol, PJ Masks & Num Noms to name but a few. The Disney Stand (530) [ ] The post Whitehouse Leisure to host three stands at EAG International & VAE appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/11/whitehouse-leisure-eag-vae/

SUZOHAPP set for bigger booth at EAG

“This year, we have increased our booth size to showcase our complete range of solutions, from individual components to complete cash management systems,” John Vallis, SUZOHAPP UK sales director and vice-president Amusement Sales EMEA, said in the run-up to this year’s EAG expo. The brand new SCAN COIN ICX Active-9 is expected to take centre stage in the SUZOHAPP stand,  representing the new mid-range class of sorters. It can sort up to nine different coin types / tokens at a rate of up to 2,700 per minute. Visitors looking for the latest technology in coin and banknote counting/sorting will [ ] The post SUZOHAPP set for bigger booth at EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/09/suzohapp-booth-eag/

Andrew Jones’ Playdium Picks

In the last Playdium Picks, Dawn Clarke took us back to youth clubs of the 90s with Ice Ice Baby and the Running Man dance. As we kick off 2018, Andrew Jones, owner of Second City Leisure, remembers the sound of The Midlands in the 80’s with 2 Tone Records and ska. After spending seven years in the army as a regular soldier, as well as 27 years serving with the Territorial Army, Andrew Jones took his first steps into the industry with Otium Leisure Ltd as a way to ensure he spend more time with his newborn son. [ ] The post Andrew Jones’ Playdium Picks appeared first on Coinslot.
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BANDAI NAMCO Amusement Europe names new export sales manager

BANDAI NAMCO Amusement Europe (BNAE) has appointed Josh Hurst to the position of export sales manager. Hurst had already held sales positions in a number of high profile companies within the industry. His father, David Hurst, has long been well-respected in the UK amusement machine sector. The younger Hurst will report directly to commercial and sales manager James Anderson, alongside colleagues Kjeld Erichsen and Julian Goicoa, and together they will cover markets throughout continental Europe, CIS, Middle East and other regions. “We are very excited to have Josh join the team at BNAE as he has already built up [ ] The post BANDAI NAMCO Amusement Europe names new export sales manager appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/09/bandai-namco-export-sales/

E-Service gives product overview in lead-up to EAG

E-Service will offer a range of products, technical repairs and field service support at this year’s EAG. In 2018, E-Service’s bench and field engineers are expected to offer assistance to customers across the UK to complete their conversions to last year’s new currency, offering workshop tools such as the Mektek coin validator programmer to save clients both time and money.    Alongside their range of spares and replacement parts, the company will be demonstrating the latest high-quality pool accessories and all varieties of Hainsworth pool cloth. Pool ball sets, cues and replacement Hainsworth cloth in various colours and finishes [ ] The post E-Service gives product overview in lead-up to EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/09/e-service-product-eag/

Eurocoin Systems serve up a compelling cocktail of innovation, service and support

Eurocoin Systems is applying the disciplines and skill set developed over the decades looking after the needs of the amusements industry to a range of other sectors including healthcare, transportation and tourism to great effect. The company’s sales and marketing director, Colin Veitch, explains the background to Eurocoin Systems, his vision for its future development and what operators should look out for from the division at EAG. Coinslot: Can you summarise what Eurocoin Systems comprises, the key proposition and when the service/function was created? Colin Veitch: Eurocoin Systems is 100 percent dedicated to the provision of business systems [ ] The post Eurocoin Systems serve up a compelling cocktail of innovation, service and support appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/08/eurocoin-systems-cocktail/

Play Expo Blackpool to host Wonderful Dizzy launch

Play Expo Blackpool has announced a new game plan for its 2018 event, which will feature the launch of new Dizzy game, Wonderful Dizzy, four YouTube retro super-gamers and other gaming “royalty”. The event is moving to February 10 and 11, from its usual May dates. A line-up of gaming VIPs includes gaming legends Philip and Andrew Oliver (pictured), who will officially launch Wonderful Dizzy, whilst also offering insight into the Dizzy Franchise and the Spectrum Next. PLAY Expo Blackpool will also host its very first Retro Games YouTuber panel talk and Q&A. This will feature four of retro-gaming’s [ ] The post Play Expo Blackpool to host Wonderful Dizzy launch appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/08/play-expo-blackpool-dizzy-launch/

SB Machines hail “new era” for children’s rides

A new focus on destination family entertainment from leading arcades is giving the children’s rides sector a major boost, says SB Machines, the leading supplier of quality Italian rides to the UK and Ireland. “We have been established for over a quarter of a century but this is one of the most exciting times for the company as customers are actively investing in new, attractive and technologically advanced models,” says the company’s director Paolo Sidoli. “We are seeing many arcades embracing the positive opportunities presented by family entertainment and leaving behind the impressions that some still retain of old-fashioned [ ] The post SB Machines hail “new era” for children’s rides appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/08/sb-machines-childrens-rides/

LAI Games to introduce VR ride to European market

The upcoming EAG International in London will mark the European debut of LAI Games’ Virtual Rabbids: The Big Ride, the industry’s first attendant-free Virtual Reality ride that is operated and serviced like a traditional coin-op game. The ride was shown for the first time at the IAAPA Expo in November, where it received widespread acclaim. Virtual Rabbids: The Big Ride boasts content created by AAA game developer Ubisoft and features their global powerhouse Rabbids brand. Offering true 360 ̊ views with action in every direction, riders can choose from three unique experiences that thrill first-time users and VR [ ] The post LAI Games to introduce VR ride to European market appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/08/lai-games-introduce-vr-ride-european-market/

VisitBritain chief brands Blackpool not “pretty” enough to promote

Blackpool tourist chiefs were fuming at VisitBritain after one of their officials claimed the seaside resort was not being “pretty” enough. Sabine Kalkmann, who represents VisitBritain and VisitEngland in Germany, made the remarks in an email to ex-Blackpool businessman Julian Allitt asking why more was not being done to promote the north’s coastal resorts. Blackpool does not have the reputation to be a particularly pretty seaside resort, she said.  “We want to make the potential visitors want to visit Britain and there are certainly nicer seaside resorts.” The remarks are the last thing Blackpool operators would expect to hear [ ] The post VisitBritain chief brands Blackpool not “pretty” enough to promote appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/05/visitbritain-chief-brands-blackpool-not-pretty-enough-to-promote/

Gulzar throws his hat into the ring for Hastings Pier ownership

It could be a case of entrepreneur vs entrepreneur in the battle for Hastings Pier, after Sheikh Abid Gulzar joined Brighton’s Luke Johnson on the list of those expressing interest in acquiring it. The future of Hastings’ troubled pier rests in the hands of those with amusements based interests with the owner of neighbouring Eastbourne Pier the latest to reveal his interest in the operation. Sheikh Abid Gulzar, the 72-year-old entrepreneur who bought Eastbourne Pier from Cuerden Leisure in October 2015, revealed to The Mail on Sunday that he is in talks with administrators Smith and Williamson. Amid [ ] The post Gulzar throws his hat into the ring for Hastings Pier ownership appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/05/gulzar-hastings-pier-ownership/

Project take progressive approach with launch of Mega Pots in time for EAG

Mega Pots, part of Project’s impressive EAG line-up, is breaking new ground with the addition of bronze, silver and gold progressive pots to what is a proven game formula. With a gold jackpot fixed at £500, the simple style game adds to the play appeal with both the silver and bronze pots awarded on a random basis. Project managing director Tony Boulton believes Mega Pots appeals to a segment of the player base whose primary motivation is to enjoy games that deliver enhanced entertainment housed within a simplistic framework. He explained: “We believe that a sizeable segment of the [ ] The post Project take progressive approach with launch of Mega Pots in time for EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/04/project-mega-pots/

Geoff McDowell departs SUZOHAPP

Geoff McDowell has left his position as managing director at SUZOHAPP to assume a senior position at a company located closer to his home in Melbourne. He joined SUZOHAPP in 2013 when the company acquired Transcity Group, a developer of custom hardware solutions for the Casino and Sports Betting industries in Australia and Asia. In 2016, McDowell took on an additional role as general manager of global gaming, using his 25 years of industry expertise to form our strategic approach in this important space. “Geoff is knowledgeable and well-respected, both internally and externally,” said Drew Scielzo, interim CEO. “During his [ ] The post Geoff McDowell departs SUZOHAPP appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/04/mcdowell-departs-suzohapp/

BANDAI NAMCO to represent global brands at EAG

BANDAI NAMCO Amusement Europe Ltd (BNAE) will once again present one of the largest booths at this year’s EAG. Stand 620 will showcase the different divisions of the company, including Games, Prizes, Virtual Reality, Management Solutions, Operations and Entertainment Projects, as well as welcoming international sales staff, distribution and manufacturing partners. “EAG provides the opportunity for us to set our stall for 2018,” James Anderson, sales and commercial director. “We have tested a number of the new releases seen at the IAAPA show, which we felt would be ideal for our markets and these can be found on our [ ] The post BANDAI NAMCO to represent global brands at EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/04/bandai-namco-eag-2018/

Bacta’s Stergides: We’ve got to plug the knowledge gaps

Gabi Stergides, National President of Bacta, is part of the new generation of young entrepreneurs in the industry. Leading the sector into his second year at the association helm, he talks to Coinslot about challenges past and present, and for the future, it’s knowledge that may well be the defining battleground. Coinslot: Reflecting on 2017, what do you regard as being the high points of your first year as Bacta president? Gabi Stergides: There have been so many things. We at last received the much awaited Triennial Review; we’ve experienced continued growth in the number of businesses joining Bacta [ ] The post Bacta’s Stergides: We’ve got to plug the knowledge gaps appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/04/bactas-stergides-weve-got-plug-knowledge-gaps/

Fake coins in the making and in the market

It hasn’t taken long for the forgers to crack the unbreakable code behind the new £1 coins, according to the Daily Star Sunday. The paper’s investigation has revealed that “there’s loads in circulation”, as“one gangster” put it, “and the market for them is ready to pop next year”. Examining the fake coins, the investigators were shown the marginal adjustments the absence of fine markings on the thistle emblem and a missing hologram beneath the queen’s head which will serve to undermine the Royal Mint’s claim that the new coin could not be copied. But they are standing [ ] The post Fake coins in the making and in the market appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/04/fake-coins-making-market/

NRM Group adopt CHIPS as charity partner

NRM Group will contribute to funding powered wheelchairs for children with severe mobility issues, after announcing CHIPS as charity partner. The NRM team and its sister company, Connected Entertainment, will “put its creativity and collective effort behind the campaign” to purchase powered, bespoke chairs which can cost up to £6,500, the company said in a statement. “CHIPS is a unique charity which was formed by the gaming industry and which encapsulates many of its stand-out characteristics,” Paul Whitbread, NRM chairman, explained. “We have been great admirers of the fantastic work that it continues to undertake, bringing mobility to many [ ] The post NRM Group adopt CHIPS as charity partner appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/03/nrm-group-adopt-chips/

NRM Group adopt CHIPS as charity partner

NRM, the UK’s leading independently owned gaming technology and software solutions provider, together with sister company, Connected Entertainment, will be part of the gaming industry’s drive to fund the purchase of powered wheelchairs for children with severe mobility issues. Chairman Paul Whitbread and Managing Director, Andrew Ludlow have confirmed that NRM has adopted the CHIPS charity with the team putting its creativity and collective effort behind the campaign to purchase powered, bespoke chairs which can cost up to £6,500. Paul Whitbread said: “CHIPS is a unique charity which was formed by the gaming industry and which encapsulates many of [ ] The post NRM Group adopt CHIPS as charity partner appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/03/nrm-group-chips-charity-partner/

Cashino Bedford tops CHIPS list

The Top Fundraisers from Praesepe’s Cashino venues have received recognition for their charitable efforts this year, with Cashino Bedford raising more than £5,400 for CHIPS. Praesepe Group has honoured three Cashino venues that between them have raised more than £11,000 during 2017 for CHIPS, the gaming industry charity that raises funds to purchase specialised powered wheelchairs for children with severe mobility problems. Praesepe, which operates seven Beacon Bingo clubs, 174 Cashino adult gaming centres, eight seaside entertainment centres and 38 tanning salons across the country is one of the main fundraisers for CHIPS raising a massive £820,000 since it [ ] The post Cashino Bedford tops CHIPS list appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/03/cashino-bedford-chips/

NRM take gaming technology innovations to ICE

‘An unrivalled opportunity to engage with leading influencers at the foremost gaming show in the world’ is how Andrew Ludlow, Managing Director of NRM, the independently owned gaming technology and software solutions provider, previewed his company’s appearance at ICE London (Stand#BP 2). NRM, which is active across the bingo, betting, social and mobile gaming sectors, is appearing at ICE London after a highly successful year during which it completed the purchase of Big Deal Games from Timeplay, secured a group wide agreement to install its Numbers Betting Platform across the Ladbrokes Coral estate and most recently delivered a ground-breaking customer [ ] The post NRM take gaming technology innovations to ICE appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/02/nrm-technology-innovations-ice/

AiSolve announced for EAG

UK-based virtual reality specialists, AiSolve will be exhibiting at January’s EAG show as part of the Bandai Namco stand. The company will be focusing on its WePlayVR modular solution which is optimised for use in FECs, shopping centres and other assorted leisure destinations. As part of its distribution partnership with Bandai Namco, AiSolve has seen its cutting edge product rolled out to more than ten global locations already and views EAG as a natural step to grow its exposure within the industry. AiSolve’s CEO, Devi Kolli, said: “We designed WePlayVR to be affordable and scalable so that our customers [ ] The post AiSolve announced for EAG appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/02/aisolve-announced-eag/

Butlin’s health & safety policy fails to dodge racial sensitivities

A muslim father is taking Butlin’s to court claiming his teenage daughter was stopped from using the dodgems because she was wearing a hijab. The company, in response, said it was taking its health & safety responsibilities seriously, but in so doing it has now been bumped straight into a race issue. “Our team are trained not to compromise when it comes to the safety of our guests,” said a spokesperson for Butlin’s whose company has found itself hauled into an unfortunate dispute over a holiday park dodgem. The matter, which started when a young girl wearing a hijab [ ] The post Butlin’s health & safety policy fails to dodge racial sensitivities appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/02/butlins-health-safety-policy/

Eastbourne Pier to make further amusements investment in 2018

If new kiosks get the green light, the owner of Eastbourne Pier has indicated he will probably fill them with more arcade machines. The owner of Eastbourne Pier has revealed he is likely to be in the market for more coin-op amusement equipment in 2018. It comes after Sheikh Abid Gulzar unveiled new plans to replace the Victorian kiosks that were burnt down in the 2014 fire that destroyed around a third of the south coast attraction. He has applied to Eastbourne Borough Council’s planning department to build identical kiosks in the middle of the pier’s boardwalk, which leads [ ] The post Eastbourne Pier to make further amusements investment in 2018 appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/02/eastbourne-pier-amusements-investment/

Llandudno Pier owner “left in limbo” after Pavilion decision deferred

The owner of Llandundo Pier said he had been “left in limbo” after a decision on controversial development plans for the vacant pavilion pier site were deferred. Adam Williams fears that if the £15m residential block is approved, noise complaints would force the pier’s attractions including its amusement arcade to close and make it economically unviable. Although Conwy County Borough Council planners recommended the £15m scheme be given planning permission, at a meeting last week its planning committee expressed doubts and deferred the decision until the new year. Afterwards, Williams commented: “Developing these flats would be like [ ] The post Llandudno Pier owner left in limbo after Pavilion decision deferred appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/02/llandudno-pier-limbo/

Innovative Technology promise new products for 2018

With the year coming to a close, Innovative Technology has announced new products for 2018 as sales staff from around the world gathered at the company’s Annual Sales Conference. Innovative Technology (ITL) sales staff from across the gaming globe all met last week at the company’s headquarters in Oldham to mark the end of a successful year in the ITL calendar, and discuss the line-up of new products for 2018. At the three day event,the teams from Spain , Germany, Italy, America , Czech Republic, Brazil, China and Australia all shared experiences, targets and looked at plans and projections [ ] The post Innovative Technology promise new products for 2018 appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/02/innovative-technology-promise-products-2018/

Blueprint Gaming acquires Games Warehouse

UK-based game studio Blueprint Gaming has completed the acquisition of omni-channel gaming provider Games Warehouse from the Harbour Group. The deal will see Blueprint, part of the Gauselmann Group, boost its operations. “We are very pleased to welcome the Games Warehouse team to Blueprint Gaming,” Matt Cole, managing director of Blueprint Gaming, said. “They will support our growth by continuing to develop creative games as well as back Blueprint’s development efforts. “We are confident that the fit will work very well and we look forward to creating some innovative games together.” Games Warehouse, based in Derby, England, supplies content [ ] The post Blueprint Gaming acquires Games Warehouse appeared first on Coinslot.
/2018/01/02/blueprint-acquires-warehouse/