Miles Baron, chief executive of the Bingo Association, has welcomed the imminent return of the Bingo Hub at next week’s EAG, calling it an essential platform for promoting bingo’s unique place in the land-based sector.

“I think it is very important for the low stakes land based industry to have its own showcase, away from the online dominated shows where it is hard to stand out and have an identity,” he explained. “Having a UK-based exhibition which brings different parts of the out of home entertainment sector together in one place provides an opportunity for the cross-fertilisation of ideas and stimulates debate,” 

With bingo operators facing rising costs, technology is becoming an increasingly important tool in ensuring sustainability. The Bingo Hub is an ideal format for innovations to be shared, with Baron highlighting the ongoing developments in the sector. 

“Technology on hand held tablets is improving all the time,” he detailed. “We are also seeing the growth and expansion of commercial bingo in other types of premises such as holiday parks and high street premises and again we are seeing developments in technology that make this easier and more cost effective.”

To reflect bingo’s social roots, the BA will host a Hi Jingo event on 15 January from 7pm, with a full bingo show at 8pm. Additionally, bingo will be played from the Hub on Tuesday and Wednesday at 5pm, with complimentary drinks for attendees.