Key points:
- Merkur Casino has sold its Lowestoft Bingo Club to Real Fun Group as part of its focus on core gaming operations
- The acquisition hopes to support Real Fun Group’s expansion plans in the bingo sector
Merkur Casino has completed the sale of its Merkur Bingo Club in Lowestoft to Real Fun Group as part of a broader strategy to refine its business focus.
The sale aligns with Merkur’s ongoing efforts to streamline operations and concentrate on its core businesses in slots and casino gaming.
Real Fun Group, which operates ten bingo clubs across England, views the acquisition as an opportunity to expand its presence in the sector.
Commenting on the development, Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer of Merkur Casino, stated: "We are excited to complete this sale with Real Fun Group. As we continue to evolve and grow in the gaming industry, it's essential for us to focus on our core strengths.
“The sale of the Merkur Bingo Club in Lowestoft allows us to sharpen our focus on our core slots and casino businesses, while ensuring the future success of our teams and enhanced bingo experience for our customers under the new leadership.”
Kevin McGinnigle, Founder of Real Fun Group, added: “Following an interesting first year as a newly formed group, we had ambitions to further grow our estate through strategic acquisitions in the years to come.
“Whilst it might have arrived a little earlier than expected, we believe Lowestoft is exactly what we’re looking for, and we look forward to welcoming the bingo hall into the Real Fun Group.
“I’d like to thank the Merkur team for their cooperation during the process; they’ve been swift, transparent and a pleasure to deal with.”
The sale comes during a period of notable developments for Merkur, including both corporate social responsibility initiatives and regulatory scrutiny.
Earlier this month, the company donated £2,205 to Ripples of Compassion – a charity supporting families affected by terminal illness and bereavement.
Merkur Slots UK, however, faced regulatory action – receiving a £95,450 fine from the Gambling Commission for social responsibility failings related to a customer who experienced extended gambling sessions without intervention.
