Bacta research: Introduction of 50/50 ratio would reduce gaming machine numbers, help the environment

The introduction of a 50/50 ratio will reduce machine numbers and help the environment, according to research conducted by Bacta, the British trade body representing amusements and high street gaming manufacturers and operators.

A 50/50 machine ratio is one of the key proposals contained in the UK Government’s White Paper on Gambling Reform. The govt. is proposing the relaxation of the 80/20 machine rule, which governs the balance of Category B and C/D machines in bingo and arcade venues, to 50/50 in an effort to bring an even split between low and medium maximum stake machines.

Reduction of the machine count based on a shift to 50/50 would result in an overall decrease in the number of machines sited in AGCs and Bingo Clubs and "a concomitant reduction in demand for electricity," Bacta's research shows.

The findings, which are based on responses to a non-attributable survey sent to Bacta members, indicate that a 50/50 machine ratio will result in an average 10% reduction in the number of Category C machines and a 20% fall-off in the numbers of Category D games, infills and tablets currently sited. 

The reduction will be offset by a projected 9% increase in the number of B3s, a proportion that equates to some 900 machines in the AGC environment, the trade body notes.

Bacta chief executive John White said that the research findings should "assuage any fears" that the 50/50 ratio will result in a proliferation of gaming machines on the high street. He stated: “Different businesses will behave in different ways in response to the needs of their customers. But what we are not seeing is the prospect of tablet arcades with the only machines on view being B3s."

“We believe that there will be further reductions in overall numbers as machines reach obsolescence and the lack of player demand means there’s no value in retaining them. A drop in machine numbers will result in reduced demand for electricity which is positive news for operators and for the environment.” 

With the consultation process on the new gambling rules now underway, White said it is important to attend events such as the upcoming Culture, Media and Sport Committee "armed with the empirical evidence provided by Bacta members."

"As I’ve said on numerous occasions this is not about the ‘if’ but about ‘how’ the White Paper recommendations are implemented. Ensuring that the industry’s voice is listened to is fundamental to getting the best possible outcome for Bacta members.”