Digital gaming machines in the UK are being used to stage a virtual World Cup sweepstake for pub customers.
Pubs with Games Media’s JU!CE video AWP machines are inviting customers to register for the sweepstake, which culminates in a free prize draw at the end of the tournament.
Entrants sign up at the machine by registering their details via the touchscreen and are then randomly allocated the name of a participating World Cup nation via text message.
All players with the World Cup’s eventual winner will then go into a prize draw to win a holiday to one of the semi-finalist countries. There will be a second prize draw for all the players knocked out, with VIP tickets to Wembley up for grabs to see a future England fixture.
Christine Jinks, of Games Media, said: "Our VAWP menus will be carrying a World Cup theme during the build up to the tournament to attract attention to new game releases and encourage players to participate in the sweepstake.
"There will also be point of sale material displayed throughout the venue reminding people to take part in the promotion and that machines are still available for use during the World Cup, even when there is a big match on.
"It would be a mistake to overlook the importance of machine income during the World Cup. Not everyone wants to watch the football and even those who do can still enjoy a game or two before kick off or during half time.
"Undoubtedly pubs showing matches have an opportunity to introduce new players to their machines. The beauty of digital machines is that we can talk to players directly through on-screen attract messages and have the ability to gather player details.
"This allows our retailers to use the player lists for further marketing initiatives to drive footfall and ultimately revenue, something analogue gaming machine providers simply can’t offer."
Customers taking part in the sweepstake will get regular text updates about their team’s progress, while licensees can also access the texting function to promote forthcoming World Cup fixtures or food and drink offers specific to their business.
