Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Mecca Bingo


Mecca Bingo is a British chain of bingo halls and online bingo operator, owned by plc, specializing in live sessions, electronic gaming machines, food and drink services, and live entertainment across numerous venues throughout the .
Originating from the Mecca Agency Limited, founded in 1933 by Carl Heimann and as a network of dance halls named evocatively after popular gathering spots, the shifted to operations in the early under promoter , capitalizing on the legalization of commercial to become a dominant player in the sector.
Acquired by in 1990 for £512 million, Mecca Bingo expanded its footprint and launched online services in 2000, serving around one million customers annually through over 70 physical clubs and a digital platform featuring rooms and slot games.
The choice of "Mecca" as a name, intended as a secular for an attractive destination, provoked in 1998 when Muslim protesters in objected to its association with and the Islamic holy city, prompting temporary renaming of a venue following community dialogue.

History

Founding and Commercial Bingo Emergence (1958-1970)

The Betting and Gaming Act 1960 legalized commercial operations in the , taking effect on 1 January 1961 and enabling the establishment of profit-oriented bingo halls separate from prior informal or charitable play. This legislation followed growing public interest in during the , primarily in social clubs, and addressed regulatory gaps by permitting licensed venues to offer gaming for stakes while imposing restrictions on prizes and hours to curb excesses. Mecca, a leisure group founded in as a chain of dance halls, pivoted to commercial under directors —dubbed "Mr Bingo" for his promotional role—and Carl Heimann, integrating sessions into existing venues to leverage underutilized facilities and attract evening crowds. Operations commenced in January 1961 across dance halls, with the first dedicated Mecca club, Rosehill in , opening that year as an adaptation of a former social and cinema site. Rapid expansion followed, including four purpose-built "Mecca Casinos" by December , amid competition from operators like , , and Essoldo, which Mecca countered through aggressive marketing and venue dominance. By June , weekly bingo book sales reached 500,000, serving 150,000 daily players; membership grew to 2.5 million by 1965. Profitability surged, with bingo yielding a 32% increase (£179,000) in the first 26 weeks of and comprising 28% of group profits (£827,639) by 1966, driven by high attendance and efficient operations in a nascent market estimated at £25 million in annual spend by . This period culminated in Mecca's acquisition by for £33 million in 1970, reflecting 's transformation from adjunct to a core commercial pillar amid industry consolidation.

Expansion Under (1980s-2000s)

In 1990, acquired for £512 million after an initial rejection of the offer, gaining control of its extensive hall network alongside other assets such as nightclubs and hotels. This followed 's earlier development of its own clubs, which numbered around 50 by the late 1960s and saw ongoing operations and property investments through the 1980s as part of a broader shift toward and diversification. Post-acquisition, integrated and rebranded its bingo operations under the banner, merging venues with Mecca's established sites to accelerate market dominance. By the early , this consolidation had expanded the portfolio to 121 clubs nationwide, positioning Mecca as the UK's second-largest bingo operator by venue count and revenue potential amid evolving gaming regulations. The period also involved strategic adaptations, including venue revaluations and preparations for the Gambling Act 2005, which favored operators with substantial physical footprints like Rank's for potential expansions, though remained the core focus with sustained club maintenance and minor optimizations rather than aggressive new builds.

Digital Transition and Recent Venue Modernization (2010s-2025)

In the 2010s, Mecca Bingo expanded its presence through applications, launching the UK's first real-money bingo app for devices in February 2011, which allowed users to play games directly on smartphones. This initiative marked an early adaptation to gaming trends, with subsequent development of native apps for both and platforms to enhance user engagement and gameplay features. By late 2018, these offerings had already generated £1.7 million in bets, reflecting growing adoption amid broader industry shifts toward platforms. Parent company intensified its strategy around 2019, redirecting resources online as physical bingo attendance declined due to changing consumer preferences and economic pressures. This digital evolution continued into the 2020s, with Rank Group's digital segment—including Mecca's online —achieving double-digit revenue growth in fiscal year 2025, driven by omni-channel integration linking physical and virtual play. Like-for-like net gaming revenue rose 10.9% in the third quarter of 2024/25, underscoring the strategy's effectiveness in sustaining against competitors. Efforts focused on user-friendly interfaces, promotional campaigns like the 2024 "Legends of Play" initiative featuring historical figures in bingo scenarios, and technological upgrades to support seamless cross-platform experiences. Parallel to digital advancements, Mecca invested in physical venue modernizations to revitalize its 50 clubs. In 2021, for its 60th anniversary, the brand underwent a visual refresh upon reopening post-pandemic restrictions, introducing updated interiors and amenities to appeal to younger demographics while preserving bingo's social core. A flagship project was the £2.5 million refurbishment of the venue, completed in March 2025, which incorporated state-of-the-art facilities including enhanced seating, lighting, and electronic systems as a model for future upgrades. In June 2025, Mecca partnered with to deploy next-generation terminals and across all venues, aiming to operations with improved machine performance and player interfaces. These efforts balanced digital growth with physical enhancements, though selective closures—like York's in 2025—highlighted ongoing rationalization of underperforming sites.

Business Operations

Ownership and Corporate Structure

Mecca Bingo operates as a brand and under , a UK-based gaming and leisure company headquartered in , . functions as the ultimate parent holding company, overseeing Mecca's bingo club operations alongside other divisions such as and Rank Interactive for digital gaming. The has been majority-owned by Malaysian billionaire since Guoco Group Ltd, his investment vehicle, acquired control in June 2011 through a series of share purchases and a mandatory offer. This ownership structure persists as of 2025, with Quek maintaining a controlling stake via entities linked to his conglomerate, despite the company's evolution from public listing to private control. Quek's influence stems from strategic investments in Rank's assets, including prior acquisitions like the casino in 2006, consolidating his position in the UK leisure sector. Corporately, Mecca Bingo Ltd serves as the operational entity managing the physical bingo halls and related services, reporting into Rank Leisure Holdings Ltd, which handles land-based bingo and casino activities within The Rank Group's structure. This layered setup allows for segregated management of bingo-specific operations while integrating with broader group finances and digital platforms under Rank Interactive, emphasizing omni-channel gaming delivery. The structure supports across UK Gambling Commission oversight, with board-level focused on ethical conduct and stakeholder interests under Quek's majority influence.

Physical Venues and Infrastructure

Mecca Bingo maintains a network of 50 physical venues across the United Kingdom, each designed to host live bingo games alongside ancillary services. These clubs form a national portfolio concentrated in urban and suburban areas, with locations spanning England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Typical venues feature expansive auditoriums seating hundreds to over 1,200 players, equipped with tiered seating, public address systems for game calls, and electronic verification tools for ticket validation. Infrastructure emphasizes multi-functional spaces beyond bingo halls, incorporating dedicated areas for slot machines, cash desks, lounges, and on-site bars or cafes serving affordable food and beverages. Many clubs include stages for live entertainment, such as DJ sets or performances, enhancing the social atmosphere. Venue sizes vary, with examples like the club accommodating up to 850 patrons in a modern layout, while larger sites support peak capacities exceeding 1,200 during sessions. Recent modernization efforts focus on technological integration to sustain competitiveness amid declining hall numbers industry-wide. In June 2025, deployed upgraded terminals across all 50 venues, introducing advanced capabilities and server-based systems for improved reliability and . This followed a with Inspired Entertainment, which installed 170 new machines to expand offerings and refresh hardware. Exemplars like the venue, revamped in the early 2020s, exemplify blueprint upgrades with contemporary interiors, enhanced lighting, and optimized flow for and comfort. These investments address post-pandemic challenges, including costs and reduced footfall, by prioritizing durable, tech-forward infrastructure.

Online Platform and Omni-Channel Integration

Mecca Bingo introduced its platform in 2000, extending its physical bingo operations to digital access via meccabingo.com, which provided internet-based games alongside traditional rules adapted for software-tracked play. The platform enabled 24/7 gameplay from any location, featuring variants such as 90-ball and 75-ball , with automated number calling and ticket purchasing. In February 2011, Mecca Bingo launched the UK's first real-money bingo application, downloadable for free from the , incorporating features from the desktop site like club locators and pre-purchase ticket options; an version followed shortly thereafter. Subsequent updates, including integration by 2019, enhanced mobile user experience amid regulatory changes. The online offerings, powered by providers such as , include welcome bonuses like £40 in bingo credit plus free spins for new users depositing £10, alongside slots and . To integrate online and physical channels, Mecca Bingo deployed the Playtech ONE omni-channel system in November 2015 across its full product range, marking a bingo-sector first aimed at boosting player engagement through unified content optimization and seamless cross-platform access. This strategy supports Rank Group's broader approach of aligning land-based venues with digital services, facilitating features like shared player data for personalized experiences. In March 2025, the operator debuted Mecca Cash Strike, its inaugural cross-channel exclusive game developed with Blueprint Gaming, launched simultaneously in retail clubs and online to synchronize offerings and drive unified customer journeys. Such integrations reflect efforts to mitigate channel silos, though digital revenues experienced a 6% dip to £136.3 million in Rank Group's 2021 fiscal year amid transitional challenges.

Products and Services

Core Bingo Offerings

Mecca Bingo's core offerings encompass traditional 90-ball bingo sessions in physical clubs, consisting of main games with 10 to 14 books of tickets played over two-hour afternoon and evening periods. These are supplemented by flyer games, which provide additional non-standard 90-ball variants for variety within sessions. Linked games connect multiple clubs to pool prize pots, while the National Game synchronizes play across all venues for a £50,000 jackpot. Electronic bingo via handheld Max tablets enables automated features like autodab and includes interval during breaks, alongside traditional paper-based play. On the online platform, core variants include 90-ball (with rooms such as Main Event and themed options like ), 80-ball on a 4x4 color-coordinated , 75-ball on a 5x5 requiring line or full-house wins, and 50-ball formats. Ticket prices range from 3p to 20p in select 90-ball rooms, with prizes scaling from £6 to over £42,000. Special features across offerings include jackpots like (up to £30,000+ across daily and monthly tiers), Roll On Bingo for extended prize progression, and Win Win for shared among qualifying holders. These elements cater to diverse play styles, from casual free- incentives to competitive linked mega-games.

Supplementary Gaming and Entertainment

In physical Mecca Bingo clubs, supplementary includes electronic gaming machines such as slots and machines, offering players additional wagering opportunities beyond sessions. Venues feature licensed bars providing food and beverages, including cocktails and prepared meals, to support extended visits and social interaction. is augmented by hosted events, promotions, and community jackpots that foster a lively atmosphere. The online platform extends these options with slots encompassing classics like Starburst, Megaways variants, and jackpot titles offering prizes up to £1,281,709 as of recent listings. hybrids, blending slot reels with bingo grids (e.g., ), join scratchcards and instant-win games for varied play. Casino-style entertainment includes table games such as and poker, alongside live dealer streams accessible via dedicated apps. Affiliated Mecca Games provides over 200 slots, progressive jackpots like Mega Moolah, and further live casino features, integrating seamlessly with bingo access.

Financial Performance

Historical Revenue Milestones

In 2005, Mecca Bingo reported of £295.6 million, a marginal increase from £292.6 million in 2004, supported by a 5.6% rise in average spend per head to £13.38 despite a 5.8% drop in admissions to 19.7 million; this period highlighted steady performance amid cost pressures from energy and wages, with operating profit at £80.2 million. Gaming machine revenue within Mecca contributed £64.5 million, up 7.1% year-over-year, reflecting ancillary income growth. By 2009, revenue had declined to £233.0 million before deductions (or £220.7 million net), up 2.4% from £227.6 million in 2008, buoyed by taxation adjustments and a new club opening in , though offset by a 2.8% reduction in customer visits to 14.9 million; operating profit fell 14.8% to £32.3 million, primarily from a £4.4 million taxation increase and absence of prior-year refunds. The launch of the "Full House Destination" club format that year represented an investment milestone, with £5.7 million in aimed at enhancing venue appeal. In fiscal 2010, Mecca's approximated £220.8 million, showing minimal of 0.05% from 2009 amid a 1.6% visit decline to 14.7 million, while spend per visit rose 2.3% to £15.96; operating profit further decreased 8.0% to £29.7 million, with a 12.7% margin reflecting ongoing pressures, though exceptional profits reached £31.0 million including £42.5 million in refunds. Capital investments totaled £22.6 million, including £2.6 million for additional clubs and £3.8 million for mobile gaming terminals, signaling adaptation to competitive dynamics. These figures illustrate a trajectory of peak revenues in the mid-2000s followed by contraction into the early 2010s, attributable to regulatory taxation hikes, the 2007 smoking ban's impact on , and rising competition from alternatives, per operational reviews in Group's filings.

Post-Pandemic Growth and Projections

Following the that forced Mecca Bingo venues to close for extended periods in fiscal year 2021 (ended June 30, 2021), during which Rank Group's overall revenue fell nearly 48% to £329.6 million from £629.7 million the prior year, physical operations reopened progressively from mid-2021 onward. Venue net gaming revenue (NGR) began recovering in fiscal year 2022, contributing to a group-wide 98% year-on-year NGR increase to £644 million as restrictions lifted and pent-up demand emerged. By fiscal year 2023, Mecca venues achieved 7% like-for-like NGR growth, supported by a 4% rise in customer visits, though recovery remained gradual due to persistent impacts on older demographics and economic caution. Growth stabilized in subsequent years amid cost-of-living pressures and venue rationalization, with Mecca bingo division NGR rising 1.7% to £136.3 million in fiscal year 2023. First-quarter fiscal 2024 saw a stronger 12% like-for-like venue revenue increase, driven by 5% higher visits and 7% greater spend per visit. In fiscal year 2025 (ended June 30, 2025), Mecca venues reported 5% like-for-like NGR growth to £140.3 million, with flat attendance offset by elevated spend per customer; overall Mecca revenue reached £178.6 million, up 3%, bolstered by digital integration and refreshed venue formats. Digital channels, including Mecca's online platform, have accelerated recovery, with Rank Group's digital NGR surging 11% to £235.7 million in fiscal 2025, underscoring omni-channel shifts that mitigated physical venue vulnerabilities. Projections for Mecca Bingo emphasize sustained modest venue expansion alongside digital momentum, with Rank Group forecasting group like-for-like NGR growth of around 11% for 2024-25, a target met amid broader reforms. Company leadership anticipates positive regulatory changes for land-based in 2025-26, potentially easing cost burdens and enabling club investments to counter ongoing declines in the sector's club count. First-quarter results indicated continued 5% Mecca venue revenue growth to £35.5 million, despite a 1% dip in visits, signaling resilience but highlighting reliance on higher-value customers for future upside.

Marketing and Branding

Key Campaigns and Advertising Strategies

Mecca Bingo has employed multi-channel advertising strategies emphasizing humor, heritage, and the excitement of winning to drive brand awareness and player acquisition, particularly targeting the online bingo segment. Campaigns often integrate television, digital video, social media, and in-club promotions, leveraging the brand's position as the UK's longest-standing bingo operator since 1961. These efforts align with regulatory requirements under the UK's Advertising Standards Authority, focusing on responsible gambling messaging alongside promotional appeals. A prominent example is the "Legends of Play" campaign, launched on July 25, 2024, described by Rank Interactive as the brand's largest advertising initiative to date. Created by The MISSION Group agency, it features comedic depictions of historical figures—such as , , , and cavemen—experiencing bingo wins on anachronistic devices like jewel-encrusted mobile phones and stone tablets, with voice-over by comedian . The campaign aired across , , video-on-demand platforms, radio, , and digital channels over two years, aiming to boost brand consideration and online market share by celebrating Mecca's foundational role in bingo. Earlier strategies included the 2009 "Pink Box" campaign, which promoted the ritualistic hope of bingo wins through a multi-format approach encompassing television, tailored online search, , in-club activations, and . The core portrayed women carrying lucky pink boxes in everyday scenarios, establishing the pink box as a brand icon symbolizing anticipation and fortune. This effort sought to emotionally connect with players by evoking the thrill of potential jackpots. In 2015, aired a controversial television featuring a cactus, produced by Isobel, which parodied scientific endorsement of bingo's appeal through absurd humor. Despite mixed public , the ads contributed to an 18% year-on-year increase in digital sales over the 20 weeks ending May 17, 2015, demonstrating the effectiveness of provocative, memorable visuals in driving online traffic amid the shift from physical clubs. The 2020 "Winner Spinner" promotion, handled by Pablo agency, satirized reality television shows like Love Island to advertise a new slot-style game, incorporating humorous scenarios such as a model causing a poolside mishap to underscore relaxation and wins. This tied into broader tactics like competitions (e.g., "We Love Bingo" and "Mecca Balloon Surprises") and partnerships, including the 2023 headline sponsorship of ITV's , which introduced exclusive in-game features like a free Winner Spinner for prizes, enhancing cross-promotion between broadcast and online platforms.

Brand Identity and Name Origins

The name "Mecca" for Mecca Bingo originates from the Leisure Group's early ventures in , when founders Carl L. Heimann and established the Mecca Agency Limited to operate cafes and dance halls, beginning with the Mecca Cafe in London's . The brand's association with began in the late 1950s under , who, as director of Mecca's dance halls, introduced commercial bingo sessions following the UK's Betting and 1960, with the first widespread operations launching in 1961. This pivot transformed Mecca from a dancing and leisure entity into the United Kingdom's pioneering bingo operator, rapidly expanding to over 100 venues by the mid-1960s and establishing the name as synonymous with organized bingo entertainment. Mecca Bingo's brand identity centers on its status as the UK's original brand, emphasizing , excitement, and historical precedence in popularizing through physical halls and later platforms. The company positions itself as a fostering intergenerational play, with highlighting 's communal appeal over solitary . In , marking its 60th anniversary, Mecca refreshed its visual identity with updated signage and assets to attract younger demographics while retaining nostalgic elements tied to its founding era. Subsequent campaigns, such as the 2024 "Legends of Play," reinforce this heritage by portraying Mecca as the foundational force in British culture.

Awards and Recognitions

Industry Awards

Mecca Bingo has received multiple accolades from gaming industry bodies, primarily recognizing its operational leadership, customer focus, and digital innovations in the bingo market. From 2014 to 2016, the operator was awarded at the International Gaming Awards, securing the title for three consecutive years and affirming its dominance in both land-based and online bingo delivery. In 2016, Mecca Bingo earned two honors at the EGR Innovation and Marketing : Best Native App and Innovation in , credited to features like its Emoji Bingo game that enhanced user engagement through . The following year, at the WhichBingo , Mecca Bingo won for Best Customer Services—praised for responsive support and player satisfaction initiatives—and Most Socially Responsible Operator, reflecting efforts in and ethical practices amid regulatory scrutiny in the UK sector.

Community and Operational Achievements

Mecca Bingo has maintained a longstanding partnership with Carers Trust since February 2014, under the Rank Cares initiative, through which its clubs have collectively raised over £1.85 million to support unpaid carers across the UK by funding grants for respite care and related services. Dedicated charity bingo games in Mecca venues donate 100% of profits—estimated at £13,000 per month—to the cause, with individual clubs like the Wishaw location achieving £1.8 million in cumulative fundraising by March 2018. In recognition of grassroots efforts, Mecca Bingo launched the Community Heroes program in 2021, selecting eight individuals from hundreds of nominations for their exceptional local contributions, rewarding them with prizes and publicity to amplify community impact. Similar initiatives include calls for nominations of "community champions" in regions like Somerset and participation in local drives such as "Everyone Deserves a Christmas," where clubs like Swansea distributed food hampers to those in need in 2020. At the Wrexham club, staff and customers raised over £31,000 for local charities between 2022 and May 2025, demonstrating sustained venue-level engagement. Operationally, Mecca Bingo operates approximately 50 venues across the UK, sustaining a network that supports consistent community access to gaming and events amid industry challenges. In June 2025, the company completed a nationwide rollout of upgraded gaming terminals, installing 850 new Equinox machines and modernizing 645 T8 cabinets with Mk8i hardware to enhance player experience and operational efficiency. Complementing this, an August 2024 agreement with Inspired Entertainment introduced 170 advanced gaming machines under a five-year, $12.7 million contract, bolstering venue capabilities without evidence of major closures or declines in physical operations. These investments reflect a focus on technological reliability to maintain attendance and service standards in traditional bingo halls.

Controversies and Criticisms

Regulatory and Advertising Disputes

In January 2022, Rank Digital Limited, the operator of Mecca Bingo's online platforms including meccabingo.com and meccagames.com, was fined £700,557 by the UK Commission for failures in protocols. The investigation identified breaches across three areas: inadequate identification and handling of customer interactions indicating harm, insufficient application of safer measures, and delays in implementing deposit limits, affecting multiple customer accounts between 2019 and 2021. In November 2023, the upheld a complaint against an advertisement by Mecca Bingo featuring drag performer . The ad depicted a "before" image of the performer in plain attire looking unconfident alongside an "after" image in glamorous bingo-playing pose with a joyful expression, accompanied by text such as "post-bingo glow" and hashtags like #winning, viewed on 16 August 2023. The ruled it irresponsibly implied that could enhance or , breaching CAP Code rules 16.1 () and 16.3.6 (prohibition on linking to improved ), and required Mecca Bingo to remove the ad and avoid similar claims in future marketing. Separate reviews of Mecca Bingo's social media content have included a July 2025 dismissal of a complaint against a post featuring an emoji-based quiz on films, deemed not to breach codes on targeting or irresponsibility. These cases reflect ongoing scrutiny under gambling restrictions, which tightened post-2019 to curb appeals to vulnerable groups.

Player-Related Incidents and Addiction Concerns

In 2002, a 52-year-old woman named Gwen De Momme collapsed and died from a suspected heart attack during an ongoing bingo game at the Mecca hall in , ; paramedics attended, but the session continued as organizers deemed it impractical to halt play immediately. Player-related has been infrequent but notable in isolated cases, such as a 2017 armed robbery attempt at the Mecca Bingo hall on Balm Road in , , where masked intruders were repelled by pursuing customers before fleeing without theft. Addiction concerns have centered on Mecca's historical lapses in practices, exemplified by a 2015 case involving Caroline Dumont, a 57-year-old accounts manager who lost approximately £800,000 over two years—up to £50,000 monthly—while employed by a subsidiary; , unaware of her theft to fund the habit, provided complimentary trips to and , prompting a to forfeit nearly £1 million in profits derived from her play. More broadly, the UK Gambling Commission fined Rank Digital Gaming—operating meccabingo.com—£700,557 in 2022 for failures between March 2017 and February 2019, including inadequate interactions with at-risk players exhibiting harm indicators, such as excessive deposits without source-of-funds verification, affecting vulnerable online participants. These incidents underscore criticisms that bingo operators like Mecca, targeting demographics including lower-income and elderly players, have at times prioritized revenue over harm prevention, though the company has since enhanced tools like deposit limits and via its Safer Gambling Hub.

Cultural and Religious Objections

The name "," derived from the holiest city in , has drawn objections from Muslim communities worldwide due to its association with a operator, as is prohibited under Islamic law (). Critics argue that linking the sacred site—central to the pilgrimage and forbidden to non-Muslims—with venues promoting activities deemed sinful constitutes and cultural insensitivity. In 1981, prominent Muslim figures, including the Sunni Mufti of , lodged formal complaints with the Saudi Arabian government, labeling the use of "" for bingo halls as blasphemous and demanding its discontinuation. The controversy resurfaced in December 1997 in , , where local violently protested the rebranding of a former bingo hall to "," viewing it as a deliberate affront to their faith; demonstrations included clashes with and . In response, the operator agreed on January 14, 1998, to remove the "" signage from that specific venue following appeals from Asian community leaders. Ongoing discontent has manifested in public campaigns, such as a 2016 urging (Mecca's parent company) to rename the chain, citing the impropriety of equating a institution with Islam's holiest site, and a 2020 Parliament that, though rejected as a private business matter, highlighted persistent offense among British Muslims. In 2010, Islamist extremists reportedly threatened attacks on Mecca venues unless the name was changed, underscoring risks of escalation from religious grievances. Despite these protests, the company has retained the brand name across most operations, citing its historical origins predating widespread multicultural sensitivities. Broader cultural critiques remain limited, with no significant non-religious objections documented specifically against Mecca Bingo beyond general anti- sentiments in conservative communities.

Cultural and Economic Impact

Social and Community Role

Mecca Bingo clubs function as social gathering points in communities, particularly for older adults seeking low-cost and interpersonal interaction. Players frequently attend sessions to socialize with friends and family, fostering a sense of camaraderie through shared gameplay and communal spaces within the halls. This role aligns with bingo's historical emphasis on group participation, where participants engage in real-time conversations during breaks, contrasting with solitary digital alternatives. The company supports local initiatives by facilitating charity fundraisers and events hosted at its venues, such as bingo nights benefiting organizations like Hello Angels and , where proceeds from ticket sales and donations aid causes. In 2021, Mecca launched a "Community Champions" in regions like , inviting nominations for individuals demonstrating exceptional local , with selected winners receiving £500 donations to their chosen causes. During the in 2020, Mecca staff volunteered in community support efforts, including food distribution and assistance programs, highlighting operational ties to neighborhood welfare. Mecca has been recognized for its -oriented practices, earning the "Most Socially Responsible Operator" award at the WhichBingo Awards, reflecting commitments to player welfare and local engagement beyond gaming revenue. Recent adaptations, including themed events like haunted nights in 2025, emphasize connection by incorporating local and interactive elements to draw diverse age groups, including younger participants attracted by affordable, alcohol-free outings. These efforts underscore halls' enduring function as accessible venues for bonding and mutual support in urban and suburban settings.

Economic Contributions and Industry Influence

![A Mecca Bingo hall in a retail park][float-right] Mecca Bingo, operating 56 venues across the as of 2023, employs over 1,600 staff members in roles ranging from callers to general managers. These operations generate substantial revenue, with Mecca's physical venues reporting £140.3 million in net revenue for the ending June 2025, reflecting a 5% year-on-year increase driven by higher spend per visit despite stable attendance. As part of , Mecca contributes to broader economic activity through taxation, with the parent company paying £188 million in taxes to HMRC and local authorities in the prior to 2025. The chain's presence bolsters local economies by sustaining in community-oriented venues that serve as social hubs, particularly in high streets and retail parks where bingo clubs have historically provided affordable and ancillary spending on and beverages. Rank Group's overall of approximately 7,500 to individuals underscores Mecca's role within a larger ecosystem that supports regional job creation and supplier networks in the sector. In terms of influence, Mecca Bingo commands a notable position as one of the UK's largest bingo operators, holding about 15% usage share among online players alongside competitors like and . Its strategies, including digital expansion since the early and targeted initiatives to attract younger demographics—such as under-35 club nights with discounted drinks—have shaped market trends toward physical-digital experiences and broader appeal beyond traditional players. These efforts position Mecca at the forefront of 's adaptation to post-pandemic recovery, influencing competitors to prioritize through innovative formats amid an gross yield of nearly £600 million in 2022/23.

References

  1. [1]
    Mecca venues - Rank Group Plc
    Mecca is Rank's community gaming brand – and a household name – in the UK market. A national portfolio of 50 venues offering bingo, gaming machines, great value ...
  2. [2]
    https://www.whichbingo.co.uk/bingo-halls/mecca-bingo/
  3. [3]
    Why Is Mecca Bingo Called Mecca? Name Origins Explained
    May 26, 2025 · Find out why Mecca Bingo has its name, how it started as a dance hall brand in 1933, and why the name later caused controversy.
  4. [4]
    60 years of Mecca Bingo
    Oct 12, 2021 · Mecca Bingo is part of the Rank Group. MECCA® and the MECCA logos are registered trade marks of Rank Leisure Holdings Ltd. Only players above ...
  5. [5]
    Mecca Bingo Near Me | List of Mecca Bingo Halls (2025) - Bingo Mum
    Aug 15, 2025 · Good news, you have come to the right place as we have listed all of the Mecca Bingo clubs throughout the UK. Below you can browse the 80+ clubs ...
  6. [6]
    MECCA BINGO LIMITED company key information - Global Database
    MECCA BINGO LIMITED is a Private limited company (Ltd.) company based in Tor Saint-cloud Way, United Kingdom, which employs 1958 people.
  7. [7]
    The Betting and Gaming Act 1960 - Mayfair Casino London
    Feb 14, 2018 · The Act – officially known as the Betting and Gaming Act 1960 – allowed commercial bingo halls to be built, and luxury casinos were required ...
  8. [8]
    [PDF] Mecca and the birth of commercial bingo 1958–70 - Lancaster EPrints
    Dec 21, 2010 · This account of an enterprise that began as a sub-section of the Mecca entertainment brand but rapidly developed to become an activity.Missing: founding | Show results with:founding
  9. [9]
    Two Fat Ladies | History Today
    ... Betting and Gaming Act (1960). Their failure to identify, and stop, a loophole in the act allowed commercial bingo to arrive by the backdoor. As the ...
  10. [10]
    Verdict on the bingo age | 1960-1969 | Guardian Century
    The lowest estimate of the amount spent in 1961 in commercial bingo clubs, which sprang up as a result of the Betting and Gaming Act, 1960, is £25 millions, but ...Missing: emergence | Show results with:emergence<|separator|>
  11. [11]
    COMPANY NEWS; Rank Makes Bid For Mecca Group
    Jun 2, 1990 · Rank's offer of $:512 million consists of new Rank shares with a value of 90.9 pence for each Mecca ordinary share and 75 pence worth of new ...Missing: acquisition | Show results with:acquisition
  12. [12]
    Rank Group PLC - Company Connections - Gambling Insider
    Mecca Bingo and Rank Group renewed their contract in January 2017, which would solidify their relations for a further 10 years. As part of the deal, Mecca ...Missing: 1980s | Show results with:1980s
  13. [13]
    [PDF] Rank Org 1990 - Memories of RXMP
    FIXED ASSETS The Group continued a three year cycle of property revaluations at 31st October 1990 with the revaluation of its Top Rank bingo clubs, Motorway ...
  14. [14]
    Rank Group 20-F - SEC.gov
    Rank has strong market positions in UK Gaming with Mecca Bingo, Grosvenor Casinos and Blue Square, its online and telephone betting business. In 2003, the ...
  15. [15]
    The Fall & Rise of Bingo - Two Little Fleas
    The birth of the bingo hall. Remarkably, commercial bingo - the 90-ball game that we now know and love - was only legalised in Britain in the 1960s, ...
  16. [16]
    [PDF] A winning hand - Annual Reports
    Established in 1961, Mecca was acquired by Rank in 1990 and is now one of the largest bingo operators in the country with a total of 121 bingo clubs which in ...
  17. [17]
    The Rank Group plc | Encyclopedia.com
    In 1990, Rank offered to acquire Mecca Leisure Group for £512 million ($819 million). Mecca's management initially rejected the offer, then suddenly accepted it ...
  18. [18]
    Meccabingo launches iPhone app - Comms Business
    Feb 8, 2011 · Meccabingo launches iPhone app. 8 February 2011 Networks & Network Services. Meccabingo.com has launched the very first real money bingo app ...Missing: timeline | Show results with:timeline
  19. [19]
    https://www.mkodo.com/s/casestudies/cs/mecca-apps
  20. [20]
    Mecca Bingo Deploys Mobile Ordering - Yahoo Finance
    Jun 25, 2019 · The app allows users to enjoy an immersive gaming experience on their Android or iOS device, and as of late 2018 had already taken £1.7m in bets ...
  21. [21]
    Mecca owner moves online as bingo goes off the boil - The Telegraph
    Aug 22, 2019 · Mecca Bingo owner Rank Group has accelerated its push into online gaming in a bid to revive its fortunes as the popularity of bingo ...
  22. [22]
    FY 2025: Rank Group sees double-digital revenue growth - NEXT.io
    Aug 14, 2025 · The Rank Group reported double-digit revenue growth and sharply higher profits in its preliminary results for the 12 months ended 30 June.Missing: 2010-2025 | Show results with:2010-2025
  23. [23]
    Mecca Bingo owner Rank Group jumps 11% as digital growth ...
    Apr 10, 2025 · Mecca Bingo operator Rank group posted a 10.9 per cent increase in like-for-like net gaming revenue (NGR) in the third quarter of its 2024/25 financial year.Missing: 2010-2025 | Show results with:2010-2025
  24. [24]
    Mecca Bingo launches “Legends of play”: A playful campaign to ...
    Jul 25, 2024 · Owned by the Rank Group Plc, Mecca Bingo is one of the largest Bingo and Slots operators in the UK. Mecca provides entertainment across its UK ...<|separator|>
  25. [25]
    Mecca Bingo celebrates 60th birthday with brand refresh
    May 13, 2021 · Mecca Bingo is re-opening its venues with a new visual identity to coincide with its 60th birthday, and with the ambition to redefine the modern-day bingo ...
  26. [26]
    A full house for Medlock and Mecca Bingo Luton
    Mar 31, 2025 · Medlock has completed the £2.5m renovation of Mecca Bingo Luton. As one of the UK's biggest Bingo operators, Mecca is renowned for great ...Missing: 2010s 2020s
  27. [27]
    Mecca Bingo Upgrades All UK Sites With Light & Wonder
    Jun 13, 2025 · Light & Wonder has inked a major deal with Mecca Bingo to refresh and future-proof the gaming experience across all 50 of Mecca's UK venues.Missing: refurbishments 2010s 2020s
  28. [28]
    Demolition Underway At York's Mecca Bingo - Contract Plant
    May 5, 2025 · Demolition work has begun at York's famous Mecca bingo venue, following excavation of the car park earlier in the year.Missing: refurbishments 2010s 2020s<|separator|>
  29. [29]
    About us - Rank Group Plc
    About Rank · The UK's largest multi-channel casino operator with 50 venues. · Mecca is Rank's community gaming brand – and a household name – in the UK market.Code of conduct · Our committees · Framework · Land-basedMissing: structure | Show results with:structure
  30. [30]
    Mecca Bingo owner Rank Group's profits more than triple - The Times
    Aug 14, 2025 · Rank's digital business saw revenues up 10 per cent to £235.7 ... The company is now majority-owned by Quek Leng Chan, a Malaysian billionaire.Missing: structure | Show results with:structure
  31. [31]
    Malaysia's Guoco wins control of gaming group Rank - Reuters
    Jun 8, 2011 · Guoco Group Ltd <0053.HK>, controlled by Malaysian billionaire Quek Leng Chan, said on Wednesday it had gained majority control of British ...
  32. [32]
    Rank sells Clermont casino to Malaysian tycoon for £31 million
    Aug 25, 2006 · Rank is selling the Clermont Club in London's Berkeley Square to a company controlled by Malaysian billionaire Quek Leng Chan for £31 million<|separator|>
  33. [33]
    [PDF] The Rank Group Plc - AWS
    2005 has been a pivotal year for The Rank Group.The actions undertaken by the Company's management will enable Rank to move into an.
  34. [34]
    Framework - Rank Group Plc
    Learn about Rank's governance framework that upholds the highest standards of corporate responsibility and ethical conduct.Missing: ownership | Show results with:ownership
  35. [35]
    The Ultimate Bingo Party | Find Your Mecca Bingo Club
    For a top night out filled with bingo action, get yourself to one of our bingo clubs. These Mecca Bingo venues are found across the UK.Missing: facts | Show results with:facts
  36. [36]
    Mecca Bingo - Where To Play In The UK | DesignMyNight
    Mecca Bingo Wrexham is a large, modern Bingo Hall, which can seat up to 850 people. The venue is located almost in the middle of the town centre.
  37. [37]
    Light & Wonder providing tech upgrades for UK's Mecca Bingo ...
    Jun 23, 2025 · Light & Wonder has announced a new agreement with Mecca Bingo to deliver next-generation gaming technology across all 50 Mecca venues in the UK.Missing: refurbishments 2010s 2020s
  38. [38]
    Inspired Announces Major Contract with Mecca Bingo for Installation ...
    Aug 7, 2024 · As part of this significant contract, Inspired will supply an additional 170 state-of-the-art gaming machines to Mecca Bingo's extensive estate, ...Missing: infrastructure modernization
  39. [39]
    Bingo of the future - Bingo Connect Magazine
    Feb 18, 2022 · The all-new Luton Mecca Bingo provides the blueprint for the future of Mecca. Its state of the art facilities elevate the bingo experience for all.Missing: 2010s 2020s
  40. [40]
    The Struggle to Keep UK Bingo Halls Alive in the Digital Age
    Jun 27, 2024 · Roughly 55 of the bingo halls closed due to the pandemic while approximately 20 have closed since 2022 due to increased energy prices.
  41. [41]
    Everything You Need to Know About Online Bingo in 2020
    Nov 30, 2019 · Online bingo allows play from any location, 24/7, with software tracking numbers. Basic rules are similar to traditional bingo, but UK and US ...
  42. [42]
    Meccabingo.com Complete Full House With the First iPhone(R ...
    Feb 8, 2011 · The Mecca Bingo App is live now and can be downloaded from the App Store for free. An android version of the application is also set to launch ...
  43. [43]
    Mecca Bingo iOS and Android Apps
    From the launch of the initial app in 2011, the Rank Group continued to adapt. Working with on how to make bingo games more interesting, mkodo built two native ...Missing: timeline | Show results with:timeline
  44. [44]
    Mecca Bingo review (2025): Complete guide to the UK's premier ...
    Aug 28, 2025 · The transition to online gaming began in 2000, making Mecca one of the earlier adopters of digital bingo platforms in the UK market. This early ...
  45. [45]
    Mecca Bingo launches Playtech ONE omni-channel solution
    Nov 2, 2015 · Mecca Bingo has launched omni-channel system Playtech One across its entire product range, with a view to enhance player engagement, optimise content and ...
  46. [46]
    Mecca Bingo launches Playtech-powered omni-channel solution
    Nov 2, 2015 · “This is a bingo-first and goes a long way towards meeting our omni-channel strategy and, more importantly, our customer needs,” he added.
  47. [47]
    Playtech powers omni-channel Mecca Bingo
    Nov 2, 2015 · This is a bingo-first and goes a long way towards meeting our omni-channel strategy and, more importantly, our customer needs.” Back to News.Missing: integration | Show results with:integration
  48. [48]
    Mecca Bingo Launches First Cross-Channel Exclusive with ...
    Mar 25, 2025 · The simultaneous launch across both retail and online platforms signals Rank Group's broader strategy to align its omnichannel offering with ...
  49. [49]
    Bingo is back as Mecca owner Rank outperforms Covid lockdown ...
    Aug 19, 2021 · He added that it was a “year of transition” for its digital business, where revenues fell 6% to £136.3m, a performance he described as “ ...
  50. [50]
    How To Play Bingo In Club
    There are loads of different bingo games to play at Mecca so the fun never has to stop! We've got Main Game bingo, Flyers, Linked Games, to name just a few.
  51. [51]
    All Bingo Games & Rooms UK | Mecca Bingo
    We've got 90-ball, 80-ball, and 75-ball online bingo games, plus stacks of traditional bingo options – like the classic games you can play in your local.Bingo Features · Play 90-Ball Bingo Online! · 75 Ball · 80 BallMissing: core offerings
  52. [52]
    Play Online Bingo Games at Mecca Bingo
    What are Bingo Halls? A bingo hall is the physical place where you can play bingo in the flesh. At Mecca Bingo, we have bingo halls up and down the country in ...Bingo · Slots · Clubs · How to Play BingoMissing: amenities | Show results with:amenities
  53. [53]
    Bingo Features | Discover Which Bingo Suits Your Style
    See our Bingo Features for a clear breakdown of game types and discover which flavour of bingo suits you best at Mecca Bingo.Missing: core offerings
  54. [54]
    Mecca Bingo Knotty Ash - Newquay Voice
    The club is noted for its entertainment offerings, including bingo games and social events. ... Aside from the bingo, you'll find fruit machines and various slot ...
  55. [55]
    Mecca Bingo and Slots Scarborough (2025) - All You Need to Know ...
    From tasty food to delicious cocktails, from winning big on the bingo to unlocking a new feature on slots. We have it all here at Mecca, with our clubs ...Missing: besides | Show results with:besides
  56. [56]
    Club Events - Mecca Bingo
    Discover exciting events and promotions at Mecca Bingo. Join us for a memorable gaming experience and chance to win big prizes.Missing: supplementary offerings
  57. [57]
    Mecca Games: Play Casino Games Online
    Play 100s of online casino games on desktop, tablet or mobile with Mecca Games. Sign up today for great offers & bonuses.
  58. [58]
    https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mkodo.meccabingo
  59. [59]
    [PDF] The Rank Group Plc - AnnualReports.com
    Feb 24, 2010 · Rank Interactive is a remote gaming and betting business. Its principal brands are meccabingo.com (bingo and games),.
  60. [60]
    [PDF] Entertaining people - Annual Reports
    Feb 24, 2011 · Mecca Bingo provides social, community-focused gaming-based entertainment in more than one hundred venues across Great Britain. The brand holds ...
  61. [61]
    Rank Group revenue rebounds from Covid-19 hit in 2021/22
    Aug 18, 2022 · Rank Group has posted a 98% year-on-year (YoY) increase in its group net gaming revenue (NGR) in 2021/22 to £644m, thanks to the return of ...
  62. [62]
    [PDF] Rank Group Annual report & Financial Statements 2023
    – Mecca venues LFL NGR grew 7%, with customer visit volumes up 4%, continuing the slow recovery from the impact of the pandemic, particularly on the older ...
  63. [63]
    Rank Group odds-on for recovery at casinos and bingo halls
    Aug 18, 2023 · However, performance was lower than expected in its Mecca Bingo division, rising 1.7 per cent to £136.3 million. O'Reilly blamed the “fear ...
  64. [64]
    Mecca Bingo owner Rank Group sees sales jump as it shakes off ...
    Apr 18, 2024 · Sales at Mecca venues jumped 12% on a like-for-like basis, driven by a 5% rise in customer visits and a 7% increase in spend per visit.
  65. [65]
    Rank expects £4m annual impact from new UK regulations
    Aug 14, 2025 · The UK-facing Mecca bingo venues business also recorded revenue increase, with this rising 5% to £140.3 million. Visitor numbers were flat year ...Missing: pandemic 2021-2025
  66. [66]
    Rank Group Reports Annual Revenue Decline - iGaming Express
    Aug 14, 2025 · Mecca Bingo recorded a 3% rise in revenue to £178.6 million, driven by increased visit numbers and the launch of refreshed venue formats.
  67. [67]
    Rank Group forecasts 11% revenue hike in FY24-25
    Jul 10, 2025 · The venues generated £90.4 million, an increase of 13%. Also in the UK, revenue from Mecca land-based bingo venues edged up 1.9% to £36.6 ...Missing: historical milestones
  68. [68]
    [PDF] News release - AWS
    Aug 14, 2025 · The Rank Group Plc ('Rank' or the 'Group'). Preliminary results for the 12 months ended 30 June 2025. Strong returns on investment drive ...
  69. [69]
    Rank Group reports 9% revenue growth in first quarter driven by ...
    Oct 15, 2025 · The Mecca venues division reported 5% revenue growth to £35.5 million ($47.53 million), despite a slight 1% fall in visits, as average customer ...
  70. [70]
    Mecca Bingo unveils 'Legends of Play' marketing campaign
    Jul 25, 2024 · Mecca Bingo unveils 'Legends of Play' marketing campaign. The multi-channel campaign aims to leverage humour to highlight Mecca Bingo's heritage ...Missing: key | Show results with:key
  71. [71]
    Mecca Bingo launches its “biggest advertising campaign to date”
    Jul 25, 2024 · Mecca Bingo has released a 'Legends of Play' ad campaign in a bid to boost brand awareness and grow its market share of the online bingo segment in the UK.Missing: key | Show results with:key
  72. [72]
    Meccabingo.com launches 'pink box' campaign - Marketing Week
    Oct 26, 2009 · The campaign includes a mix of TV, online, CRM, in-club and social media. It breaks this week with a television advertisement that shows ...
  73. [73]
    Mecca bingo's twerking cactus helps boost business at Rank
    May 21, 2015 · Rank's campaign for Mecca bingo, with adverts featuring the provocatively dancing plant, helped drive up Mecca's digital sales 18% year on year ...
  74. [74]
    Mecca Bingo "Winner Spinner" by Pablo - Campaign
    Feb 14, 2020 · Mecca Bingo parodies Love Island with a spot to promote its new Winner Spinner game. The ad begins as a narrator encourages reality TV stars ...Missing: famous | Show results with:famous
  75. [75]
    Mecca Bingo announces partnership with Loose Women
    Apr 4, 2023 · Mecca Bingo has launched an exclusive Loose Women-themed bingo room on its website. Players can match Loose Women topics and win cash prizes.<|separator|>
  76. [76]
    Mecca Leisure Group | BingoSites.net
    Jan 24, 2023 · When it was first established in the 1930s by Carl L. Hermann and Byron Davies, it was known as the Mecca Agency Limited and was focused on ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  77. [77]
    Mecca and the birth of commercial bingo 1958–70: A case study
    Dec 21, 2010 · This paper provides a case study of the Mecca group as it moved into commercial gambling, rapidly increased its size and profitability, saw off ...Missing: founding | Show results with:founding
  78. [78]
    MECCA BINGO LAUNCHES “LEGENDS OF PLAY” - MISSION Group
    The "Legends of Play" campaign aims to increase brand consideration and market share, using historical figures and a playful tone to celebrate Mecca as the ...
  79. [79]
    IGA Winners 2016 | Gaming Awards
    Online Bingo Operator of the Year. Mecca Bingo. Sponsored by: Online Casino Operator of the Year. Leo Vegas. Sponsored by: Online Gaming Operator of the Year.
  80. [80]
    Untitled,Press Release - Which Bingo Awards 2017 - AWS
    • Bingo retailer was recognised for customer service and social responsibility at prestigious awards ceremony. Mecca Bingo secured a double victory at the ...
  81. [81]
    Rank Cares | Meca Bingo
    Since getting involved with supporting Carers Trust over 8 years ago, Mecca Bingo has managed to raise over a staggering £1,852,611.62 and counting. We raised ...Missing: initiatives achievements
  82. [82]
    Current Partnerships - The Rank Group PLC - Carers Trust
    Our partnership with Rank was recognised at the 2023 & 2024 European Casino Awards. We were thrilled to accept the Corporate Community Engagement Awards as part ...
  83. [83]
    Wishaw Mecca Bingo members celebrate raising incredible £1.8 ...
    Mar 28, 2018 · Team members from Mecca Bingo based in Wishaw are celebrating after reaching an incredible fundraising milestone of £1.8 million for the Carers Trust.
  84. [84]
    MECCA REWARDS 8 INCREDIBLE COMMUNITY HEROES
    Apr 19, 2021 · We received hundreds of incredible nominations and it was a hard job to select just 8 final winners who have been named as our Mecca Bingo Community Heroes.Missing: initiatives achievements
  85. [85]
    Mecca Bingo on the search for community champions
    Feb 26, 2021 · MECCA Bingo is asking residents in Somerset to help them find people whose community spirit has gone 'above and beyond' so they can give them ...Missing: initiatives achievements
  86. [86]
    Everyone Deserves a Christmas 2020: A Look Back | Mecca Blog
    In 2020, Mecca Swansea were the first to take part in the charitable initiative, which was organised by the local MP Carolyn Harris and sponsored by South Wales ...
  87. [87]
    Mecca Bingo Wrexham staff and customers' charity donation
    May 3, 2025 · Customers and team members at the bingo hall on Smithfield Road have raised more than £31,000 to support local charities since 2022.
  88. [88]
    Light & Wonder upgrades gaming terminals across all Mecca Bingo ...
    Jun 13, 2025 · Light & Wonder has announced a nationwide agreement with Mecca Bingo to modernise gaming infrastructure across all 50 of its UK venues.Missing: refurbishments 2010s 2020s
  89. [89]
    Inspired Announces Strategic Partnership with Mecca Bingo
    Aug 9, 2024 · The comprehensive five-year agreement is worth approximately $12.7 million and includes not only the installation of the latest gaming machines, ...Missing: achievements | Show results with:achievements
  90. [90]
    Inspired Announces Major Contract with Mecca Bingo for Installation ...
    Aug 7, 2024 · The five-year agreement, valued at approximately $12.7 million, involves the installation of 170 new gaming machines across Mecca Bingo's UK ...Missing: achievements | Show results with:achievements<|separator|>
  91. [91]
    Rank Digital and Annexio to pay £1.3m for social responsibility failings
    Jan 20, 2022 · Rank Digital, which operates the Grosvenorcasino.com, Meccabingo.com, Meccagames.com and Bellacasino.com sites, will pay £700,557 after the ...<|separator|>
  92. [92]
    Rank Group hit with £700000 Gambling Commission fine over social ...
    Jan 20, 2022 · ... meccagames.com, was found guilty of breaking social responsibility regulation on three front following an investigation by the UK regulator.
  93. [93]
    Mecca Bingo Ltd - ASA | CAP
    Nov 15, 2023 · Mecca Bingo Ltd. TOR, Saint Cloud Way Maidenhead SL6 8BN. Number of complaints: 2. Complaint Ref: G23-1210375 Mecca Bingo Ltd. Other rulings for ...
  94. [94]
    ASA Censures Play'n GO Ads; Clears Mecca Bingo Emoji Post
    Jul 16, 2025 · In contrast to the Play'n GO ruling, the ASA dismissed a complaint concerning a Facebook post by Mecca Bingo (Luton), which featured a quiz ...
  95. [95]
    BBC NEWS | UK | England | Bingo continues as woman dies
    Oct 24, 2002 · Gwen De Momme, 52, collapsed in the middle of a game at Mecca bingo hall, in Knotty Ash, Liverpool. Her sisters rushed to her aid, and ...
  96. [96]
    https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/uk-england-leeds-41430097
  97. [97]
    Mecca Bingo to forfeit £1million profit after letting gambling addict ...
    Dec 15, 2015 · Bingo giant took Caroline Dumont, 57, on expenses-paid trips to Las Vegas and the Bahamas - but failed to realise she was stealing to fund ...<|separator|>
  98. [98]
    Mecca Bingo Limited - Licence summary - Gambling Commission
    If you disagree with a gambling business about the result of your gambling transaction, or about the service you have received from them, then you should first ...Missing: disputes | Show results with:disputes
  99. [99]
    Mecca bingo hall drops name after Muslim protests - BBC News | UK
    Jan 14, 1998 · A bingo chain will remove its century-old name, Mecca, from one of its halls after Asian community leaders said it was an insult to their religion.
  100. [100]
    1981 files: Mecca bingo hall row with Saudi Arabia - The Telegraph
    Dec 30, 2011 · The Sunni Mufti of Beiruit was among leading muslims who complained about the name of a chain of Mecca bingo halls in 1981, saying it was blasphemous.Missing: controversy Islam
  101. [101]
    Mecca bingo hall outrages Muslims | The Independent
    Jan 7, 1998 · A change of name at a Luton bingo hall has met with violent protest from the town's Muslim population - who object to it being called "Mecca".
  102. [102]
    Change the name of Mecca Bingo "Demand respect for sacred places"
    Jun 14, 2020 · 2018 decision to rename their gambling venues throughout the UK. Mecca Bingo is at least as deeply offensive in 2020 to the majority of Britain.
  103. [103]
    Mecca Bingo threatened by Muslim extremists - Daily Star
    Sep 17, 2010 · EXTREMIST Muslims last night warned bingo giants Mecca to change its name or face attacks from their religious fanatics.Missing: controversy | Show results with:controversy<|separator|>
  104. [104]
    Gems from National Archives unearthed after the 30-year rule
    Dec 29, 2011 · Muslim groups, she said, "wished it to be known that Islamic people found it offensive that the name Mecca was being used by the company".Missing: controversy | Show results with:controversy
  105. [105]
    [PDF] A numbers game - Mecca Bingo Blog
    As the Rank Organisation diversified, it tried to buy Mecca twice in the 1960s before achieving its goal in the 1990s. This great history from two of the ...
  106. [106]
    The Cultural Impact & History of Bingo in Society - Mecca Blog
    Oct 30, 2019 · Licensed and regulated by The Gambling Commission under licence 2396 for customers playing in our land-based bingo clubs. Mecca Bingo is part of ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  107. [107]
    Hello, Angels are running a fundraiser at Mecca Bingo Stevenage ...
    Jun 6, 2025 · Hello, Angels are running a fundraiser at Mecca Bingo Stevenage next Friday the 13th June. For everyone who joins us there will be a £5 donation ...Do you think asking Gala or Mecca bingo halls to host a fund raiser ...MECCA BINGO FUNDRAISER Thank you to everyone who helped ...More results from www.facebook.com
  108. [108]
    Only 1 week to go until our Charity Bingo Night! Join us ... - Instagram
    Oct 16, 2025 · Join us at Mecca Luton on 23rd Oct for bingo, prizes, food & fun - all in support of your local community ❤️ £20 (+£2 fee) - includes meal, ...
  109. [109]
    Mecca Bingo on the search for community champions
    Feb 26, 2021 · MECCA Bingo is asking residents in Somerset to help them find people whose community spirit has gone 'above and beyond' so they can give ...
  110. [110]
    Celebrating Our Unsung Heroes - Mecca Bingo Blog
    May 15, 2020 · As you may know, many of our incredible staff are currently helping out in their local communities and we are hugely proud of all of them.
  111. [111]
    Mecca - LinkedIn
    We've been awarded numerous awards at the Which Bingo Awards including Best Customer Service, Most Socially Responsible Operator and Best Playtech Bingo Site.
  112. [112]
    https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/national/uk-today/25568284.uks-haunted-bingo-club-bringing-local-legends-life/
  113. [113]
    Gen Z and millennials are taking over bingo halls, survey finds
    Aug 14, 2025 · Twenty-six per cent of the 2,000 adults, aged between 18 and 35, surveyed by Mecca Bingo highlighted the cheaper drinks on offer at bingo nights ...
  114. [114]
    Careers at Mecca Bingo
    Mecca offers roles like Bingo Callers, Team Members, Chefs, and General Managers, with career paths and training available.Missing: involvement | Show results with:involvement
  115. [115]
    Rank Group Posts Strong FY25 Growth, Eyes Boost from UK ...
    Aug 16, 2025 · Mecca bingo venues also grew revenue by 5% to £140.3 million, with flat attendance but a 5% increase in spend per visit. Gaming machine revenues ...Missing: financials | Show results with:financials
  116. [116]
    Mecca Bingo owner warns gambling tax raid could affect viability of ...
    Oct 15, 2025 · Digital operations led the group's growth, with revenue up 13%, while venue performance rose 7% year on year. The UK business grew 15 ...
  117. [117]
    [DOC] https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/1...
    The stark decline has been felt in communities throughout the UK where bingo clubs have long served as social amenities within local communities for customers ...
  118. [118]
    [PDF] Written evidence submitted by Rank Group plc
    ... the second-biggest bingo operator (Mecca bingo) in the UK. We employ c. 7500 colleagues and in 2018/19, we paid £159m in. UK taxes and £191m in taxes overall.
  119. [119]
    The Rank Group plc - LinkedIn
    Website: http://www.rank.com. External link for The Rank Group plc ; Industry: Gambling Facilities and Casinos ; Company size: 5,001-10,000 employees.<|separator|>
  120. [120]
    Trends in Britain's online Bingo market and the biggest players in ...
    Dec 10, 2023 · Tombola (23%), Gala (16%), Mecca (15%), Sky Bingo (14%) and Foxy Bingo (11%) are the five most used websites/apps that these players have used ...
  121. [121]
    Mecca Bingo owner celebrates returning to profit as it targets ...
    Aug 15, 2024 · It was driven by a 9% increase in net gaming revenues – meaning the total amount of cash pocketed after paying out winnings to punters – ...Missing: growth key
  122. [122]
    Gen Z and millennials taking over bingo halls, survey finds - AOL.com
    Aug 14, 2025 · Twenty-six per cent of the 2,000 adults, aged between 18 and 35, surveyed by Mecca Bingo highlighted the cheaper drinks on offer at bingo nights ...
  123. [123]
    https://www.statista.com/topics/8927/bingo-in-the-united-kingdom-uk/