Big Game Fishing Arena is sure to reel in the crowds to Reflex Gaming’s stand at ARE this year, with the Cat C multiplayer already helping operators increase dwell time, engagement and return in a tough market. Business development director Mark Purdy told Coinslot “it’s easily our most exciting new concept so far in 2026.”
Coinslot: It’s been a tough start to the year both economically and on the regulatory front. What are you hoping to get from the two days in Manchester and what will the main topics of debate be about?
Mark Purdy: It’s certainly been a difficult backdrop, and I think everyone would agree on that.
Across pubs, bingo, AGCs and operators, everyone’s dealing with the challenge of rising operating costs landing at the same time as continued pressure on consumer spending.
What we want from Manchester are good conversations and a chance to focus on the practical opportunities in front of us.
For us, it is about listening carefully to operators, understanding where the pain points are, and showing products that can genuinely help them drive dwell time, engagement and return in a tougher market.
Coinslot: We’re now into the second quarter of 2026, what have been the highlights of the year so far in terms of business development and product launches?
Mark Purdy: Big Game Fishing Arena has been the standout. It’s easily our most exciting new concept so far in 2026, bringing a genuine multiplayer experience to Cat C that’s all about shared moments, competitive play and creating real energy on the gaming floor.
Early installs have delivered encouraging performance which gives us a lot of confidence as we continue to roll it out more widely.
Coinslot: Looking at the market forces and the somewhat erratic signs regarding movement on the Gambling Review, how do you feel about the proposed changes in legislation and what the industry needs to realise the growth we need moving forward?
Mark Purdy: There’s no doubt the land-based sector is operating in a more challenging environment, with rising costs, tighter margins and ongoing regulatory uncertainty all impacting confidence.
While the proposed reforms signal a step in the right direction, the lack of clarity and consistency has made it difficult for operators to plan and invest with conviction
What the industry needs now is a clear, stable framework that recognises the distinct roles of pubs, bingo and AGCs and give businesses the confidence to evolve, invest and ultimately drive sustainable growth.
Playing the Big Game
Mark Purdy said… “Big Game Fishing Arena has been the standout. It’s easily our most exciting new concept so far in 2026…Early installs have delivered encouraging performance which gives us a lot of confidence as we continue to roll it out more widely…
