The vibes were positive at the TVC Bookmakers Trade Fair at Cranmore Park, Solihull, despite the challenges facing the industry.
That was the view put forward by sponsor TVC’s head of sales Andy Greaves, who pointed to first-time European visitors Digitain and Magellan Robotech as evidence of an event that has plenty of life left within it – despite a quarter of high street outlets being slated for closure as a result of stricter FOBT regulations.
“Numbers registering each year continue to grow and we feel this is a great opportunity for industry peers to meet, network and look at the latest products,” Greaves said.
“It has been a very challenging time for the industry across the last 12 months, but this year we achieved a record number of pre-registrations and have also seen new European colleagues attending, which is great.
“I’ve spoken to plenty of people around the hall and the mood is still upbeat. Turnover may have gone down, but they are finding that customers are adjusting by spending in different ways, some of which are more profitable.”
The show featured representatives from major brands including Paddy Power, William Hill, Ladbrokes and Coral as well as the usual host of independents.
Simon Westbury, head of international business development at Armenia-based Digitain, said that the Trade Fair was a focal point for the technology provider due to the UK representing an important facet of its global expansion strategy.
“We had some good discussions with independent bookmakers and in some cases there is room for improvement in their online offerings. We can help with that,” Westbury said.
“It’s also important not to forget retail, too. We can foresee a growth in staffless shops and we see that as an exciting opportunity. Of course, it has been a difficult time for bookmakers in the UK, but it can be looked upon as a chance to innovate.”
