Listen to this article:There was great news for the UK’s bingo industry in last month’s Budget when the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, confirmed that bingo duty will be abolished from April 2026. At present, the tax is 10% and it is charged on the profits of bingo operators after they have paid out winnings. The change was well received, with operators and industry groups saying that it recognises the role the bingo industry plays in local communities.
The abolition of the duty comes at a time when many bingo halls have faced rising operating costs. Energy prices, staffing expenses, and the long recovery period following the pandemic have hit venues hard. Owners of independent clubs say the change finally provides them with some financial breathing room and the opportunity to reinvest.
The Godden Organisation, which recently opened the Deluxe Bingo Hall in Hastings, called the decision a “vote of confidence” in the sector. William Chilcott, its head of communications, told the BBC:
“It was very welcome news for a sector that’s had a couple of difficult years with rising energy costs, employment costs and a real vote of confidence from this government in our sector. It’s reflective of the unique community bingo is and how important a role it can play in towns like Hastings.”
Industry leaders believe the impact will go beyond keeping existing venues afloat. Miles Baron, chief executive of the Bingo Association, said he was “absolutely delighted” and expects the move will lead to more investment, particularly in coastal communities where clubs often serve as key entertainment venues.
“The industry has been trying really hard to reinvent itself since COVID. This will really accelerate the process. We’re going to see new clubs, investment in modern premises, and we’re going to see more and more bingo clubs.”
While high-street bingo halls are celebrating, the wider gambling sector is facing a very different outcome. At the same time as announcing the scrapping of bingo duty, the Chancellor confirmed major increases in remote gaming taxes. Online casinos and bookmakers will see remote gaming duty rise from 21% to 40% from April next year, which is expected to raise billions for the Treasury over the coming years. A further 25% tax will apply to remote betting from 2027.
The government has said that the changes are aimed at the parts of the gambling industry most associated with harm. According to Meg Hillier, chair of the Treasury select committee, online slots and virtual casino games can quickly drain players’ bank accounts, and as such, she said she is pleased that the government resisted “scaremongering” from online operators.
However, the Betting & Gaming Council have raised significant concerns. They called the move a “devastating hammer blow” for jobs and warned that companies may be forced to cut back. The government expects some players to reduce their spending or move to unregulated operators online, which led to a pledge of £26 million over three years to help the UK Gambling Commission combat illegal gambling sites.
For bingo players, the outlook is much more optimistic. Jonny Unknown, managing director of Dabbers Social Bingo in London, welcomed the decision and spoke of the practical relief it brings.
“This is a great unexpected surprise – and means we no longer have to bother with the huge administrative headache of dealing with a 10 per cent gambling duty charged on money paid out on the bingo ticket stakes after paying for prizes.”
He also hopes that savings will allow venues to offer players more prize variety and continue to develop the social side of bingo. Recent years have seen the game carve out a new niche among younger players by mixing entertainment themes, affordable fun, and a controlled level of gambling. With an average night costing around £20, clubs position themselves as an affordable night out rather than a high-stakes gaming experience.
By removing bingo duty, the government has taken a big step to help preserve local entertainment spaces that are enjoyed by a large cross-section of society, and this should mean that many more bingo venues are able to thrive.
We do not sell or share your information with anyone. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Latest
