Much has been stated in the press recently regarding the bingo industry being hit as a result of the cigarette ban in Britain. Things have grown so poor that in Scotland the Bingo industry has asked for big aid to help keep the industry from going bankrupt. However does the online version of this quintessential game offer a salvation, or might it in no way compare to its land based relative?
Bingo has been an ancient game generally enjoyed by the "blue haired" generation. However the game recently had seen a recent increase in appeal with younger men and women deciding to hit the bingo parlors rather than the discos on a weekend. All this is about to get flipped on its head with the introduction of the anti smoking law all over United Kingdom.
No longer will players be permitted to puff on cigarettes whilst marking off their numbers. Starting in the summer of 2007 all public locations will not be permitted to allow smoking in their venues and this includes Bingo halls, one of the most common locations where players like to puff on cigarettes.
The effects of the cigarette ban can already be looked at in Scotland where cigarettes are already banned in the bingo parlours. Profits have plunged and the industry is absolutely fighting for its life. But where did the players go? Obviously they haven’t cast aside this established game?
The answer is on the net. Players are now realizing that they can bet on bingo in front of their computer at the same time enjoying a cocktail and cigarette and still enjoy huge cash rewards. This is a recent phenomenon and has happened bordering on perfect with the anti smoking law.
Of course betting on on the net could never replace the collective aspect of heading down to the bingo hall, but for a demographic of players the governing edicts have left a good many bingo enthusiasts with little option.