Listen to this article:Local Business Bingo is a simple idea designed to help independent shops and cafes attract new customers. No matter where you are based, there are likely to be some small local businesses that are trying to compete with larger chains, and Local Business Bingo provides a light-hearted way to bring to smaller places they might not usually visit.
The basic format of the game will be familiar to anyone who has played bingo before, except that instead of numbers, each square on the bingo card represents a local business. Shoppers pick up a card, either from a participating venue or by printing one online, and then visit each featured business to collect a stamp or signature. Once the card is full, it can usually be returned for entry into a prize draw or to claim a small reward.
Local Business Bingo often runs as part of wider campaigns aimed at supporting local shops, such as Independents Week or Small Business Saturday. It is particularly popular with business improvement districts (BIDs) that are looking for ways to increase footfall and show what makes their area unique. Bingo has long played a role in community and fundraising effortsāthereās even an online bingo brand with a very good cause Pink Ribbon Bingo, created specifically to support breast cancer charities.
Recently, a game of Local Business Bingo took place in Gloucester as part of Independents Week 2025. Gloucester BID launched the challenge that invited shoppers to explore the cityās independent shops, cafes, and craft centres.
Before the event started, Izzy Townsend, marketing assistant at Gloucester BID, said:
“We are incredibly excited for the new Local Business Bingo this Independents Week. It is a brilliant opportunity to celebrate Gloucester’s local businesses and discover what unique offerings they provide for the city, its residents and visitors. During the week, we encourage everyone to support local and perhaps discover somewhere new.”
The concept proved popular with business owners as well. Laura Evans, owner of Sisu Pancakes at Gloucester Quays, said:
“We are so happy to be a part of the Gloucester BID Local Business Bingo! We are offering our popular pancake slices at a discounted rate through their Independents Week offers.”
Local Business Bingo promotions work for several reasons. First, they make visiting local businesses into more of an event. Rather than just going to the same familiar shops, people have a reason to visit a place they havenāt tried before. Completing the bingo card becomes a goal in itself, which offers a bit of entertainment as well as a reward at the end.
Second, Local Business Bingo helps raise awareness of smaller, less visible businesses. Some independent shops rely heavily on word of mouth or passing trade. An organised event can bring in fresh interest and introduce residents and visitors alike to new options.
Third, for business owners, it provides an opportunity to run additional offers or promotions. A cafe might offer a small discount to bingo participants, while a craft shop could run a workshop or demonstration to coincide with the event.
From a community perspective, these events can help to build the atmosphere on a high street or shopping area. People wandering between businesses with bingo cards in hand create a sense of shared activity. Thereās also a clear benefit in supporting local economies; money spent at independent businesses often stays in the area, which helps to maintain diversity and character on the high street.
There may be a Local Business Bingo event organised in your area, so keep your eyes peeled. If not, then if you are involved in organising local events or work within a business improvement district, why not create your areaās first Local Business Bingo game.
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