Rank sees return to sales growth in last 6 weeks

LONDON, England As reported by Reuters: "Rank Group said on Friday it had seen a return to sales growth over the past six weeks as it passed the anniversary of legislation banning certain lucrative gaming machines from its bingo halls.

"The bingo, free casino , and online gaming firm, said that, in the six weeks to Oct 12, like-for-like revenue rose by 5 percent, reflecting the passing of the anniversary of the introduction of the Gambling Act in September 2007 and actions taken to address its negative effects.



"However, in the 41 weeks to Oct 12, like-for-like sales had declined by 8 percent.

However, the online gambling Commission is currently reviewing its guidance to local authorities over the centers.international news brief: Britain's leading gaming companies have scaled back plans to bid for the 16 new casino licenses.

"Rank was hit hard last year by both the uk casinos gambling Act and a smoking ban. Those factors, along with the economic downturn, led to a sharp decline in attendances..."


Rank said Mecca had benefited from the granting of licensing permission for 83 adult gaming centers located within Mecca Bingo properties, of which 64 are operational. That has enabled it to increase the amount of B3 high jackpot gaming machines that it operates to 660 from 406 at the start of the year.