By Sarah Smithon Tuesday, 1 May 2007 A major independent UK bingo operator has been forced to close three of its bingo halls as a result of failing profits.
The firm has seen its profits plunge by 62 per cent since the smoking ban was introduced in Scotland, reports the Scotsman.
Carlton Bingo's managing director Peter Perrins has revealed that further bingo hall closures "could not be ruled out" and described the last year as one the company wants to "hide and forget".
Recent research by the company showed that 70 per cent of people who play bingo with Carlton smoke and many are simply choosing to stay at home instead.
With the rise of internet bingo, many smokers have found that they need not go to their bingo hall in order to play bingo games.
In fact, many players find online bingo games more enjoyable than the traditional games.
Despite this, many bingo operators are making an effort to make bingo halls appeal to both smokers and non-smokers.
Mecca Bingo has revealed that it is installing shelters with TVs and public address systems outside its halls so that smokers can keep up with the play while getting their nicotine hit.
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