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16 October 2007
Smoking ban keeps the punters away
The UKs casinos and bingo halls are suffering the fallout from the recently imposed indoor smoking ban. Profits are falling and share prices are sinking dismally.
The new law, introduced in July, which means smokers must go outside if they want to light up, causes gamblers to spend less time at the table and more time hanging around outside. Casinos and bingo halls are investing in outdoor areas, in a bid to keep their customers warm, happy and spending. Having to adapt, some bingo bosses have suggested bingo gardens where patrons can continue to play outside whilst indulging in a cigarette. However, unpredictable English weather is likely to put paid to this idea.
Analysts say that smokers spend on average 10% of their playing time on cigarette breaks, and aside from the time lost, once they have left the table, they are less likely to return, after mulling over their losses. Whereas players used to use the slot machines in the breaks, they are now more likely to head outside for a smoke.
In the summer, Gala, Britains biggest bingo network, forecast the closure of around 7% of its 170 clubs, due to the predicted impact of the smoking ban. In September, Mecca Bingo announced it was cutting 200 jobs as it struggled to cope with falling profits.
Critics say that bingo hall profits were falling long before the ban came into place, and that this is merely the natural consequence of a dwindling popularity for the game.
All of this however is good news for online bingo and casinos. Given the choice of standing out in the freezing cold and rain for a quick puff, many gamblers would rather play in the comfort of their homes, where they can smoke to their hearts content. So log on, and play your favourite games rain or shine.
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