Barclays-backed investment targets next-gen player experience and venue transformation
Buzz Bingo, one of the UK’s most recognisable bingo operators, has launched an ambitious £25 million refurbishment programme to modernise its land-based venues and elevate the in-club experience for a new generation of players. Backed by Barclays, the funding will support a multi-year transformation that blends cutting-edge technology with local cultural touches and modern design aesthetics.
Sheffield Parkway Sets the Tone for Nationwide Rollout
The first site to receive a full upgrade, Sheffield Parkway, has reopened to overwhelming success. Buzz reports a 200% increase in footfall during the launch week compared to the week prior, with a 131% year-on-year growth, highlighting a strong appetite for updated club experiences. The refurbished venue now includes:
A completely redesigned main hall
Lounge and bar areas with enhanced comfort
Artwork by local artists to reflect community culture
New digital screens and AV systems to energise gameplay
A sleek, modern aesthetic aimed at appealing to both new and traditional audiences
This blueprint will serve as the model for seven additional refurbishments in 2025, including sites in Leeds and Stockport, with more to follow in subsequent years.
Driving Growth with Technology and Expansion
The refurbishment programme is part of Buzz Bingo’s wider five-year strategy, launched in 2023, which focuses on omnichannel growth. As part of this effort, the company is deploying over 10,000 electronic bingo terminals, digital membership cards, and next-generation self-service kiosks across its estate to enhance convenience and interactivity for players.
Buzz has also shown confidence in physical expansion with the recent acquisition of Merkur Bingo clubs in Northampton and Cricklewood, signalling a dual approach of modernisation and market consolidation.
Financial Momentum Supports Investment Strategy
The investment comes at a time of upward trajectory for Buzz. In its latest FY23 report, the company saw:
EBITDA growth of 14%
Online revenue surge of 31%
Total NGR reaching £207 million
This solid financial footing, combined with the new Barclays funding, positions Buzz Bingo for sustainable expansion at a time when the leisure and entertainment sectors are rapidly evolving.
CEO Vision: A New Era for Bingo
CEO Dominic Mansour emphasised that this transformation is not merely cosmetic but strategic:
“Our new investment programme will see clubs across our estate being transformed. This is all about modernising bingo for the next generation of players and taking our clubs to the next level to offer a truly unmatched experience.”
Buzz’s approach—fusing tradition with technology—is emblematic of a broader industry trend where legacy operators must evolve to retain market relevance while expanding appeal to younger, digitally fluent audiences.
As the next wave of refurbishments unfolds, all eyes will be on Buzz’s ability to redefine what bingo means in the 2020s and beyond.
