Bingo numbers fall short

MECCA Bingo operator Rank Group reported falling full-year profits in a ‘challenging’ UK market.

Profit in the 12 months to June 30 fell 7pc to £79.7m, while revenue slipped slightly from £709m to £707m. The group’s Mecca venues saw ‘reduced visits’, with revenue falling by 4pc and operating profit slipping 9pc. But boss Henry Birch focused on the digital performance, saying: ‘Our digital business delivered 63pc growth in operating profit.

‘The group has put in place digital, product and venue-based initiatives launching in the current financial year to drive topline revenues.’