August 20, 2026

BJ’s partners with Smartest Energy for sustainable future

Independent operator BJ’s Bingo has announced that it will now aim to power all three of its venues through renewable electricity. 

Named after entertainment entrepreneur “Big Jim” Shipley (whose sons still run the company), BJ’s posted to social media this week announcing its new partnership with green-energy provider SmartestEnergy. 

“Sustainability is an important part of our future and this step marks a key milestone in reducing our environmental impact while continuing to deliver the same great entertainment and experiences our customers know and love,” read a company statement. “By using renewable electricity, we’re supporting the transition to a low-carbon future and playing our part in creating a cleaner, greener tomorrow.”

“Entertainment should bring people together and we believe it can also help build a more sustainable world,” it added. 

Still family owned and noticeably leaner than much of its industry colleagues, BJ’s currently maintains three separate locations in Reading, Manchester and Birmingham. The company has proved swift to innovate: being one of the first UK operators to utilise electronic “Bingo Bee” devices, allowing for jackpot enhancers and non-gaming perks and giveaways. 

The company maintains extremely favourable Google review ratings (4.4/5 from 436 reviews for its Manchester site), with punters praising friendly staff, cheap drinks and the fun atmosphere. 

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