The best possible shopwindow for the ‘serious business of fun’ is how Bacta Vice-President Joseph Cullis summarised the contributions made by EAG Expo both to the trade association and to the broader industry.

Channelling the slogan that’s been deployed by Bacta to explain the nature of the industry and the role played by Bacta member businesses employing people in communities throughout Britain Joseph Cullis stated: “The exhibitors who will be at EAG Expo and the co-located Social Immersive Entertainment Expo and London Casino and Gaming Show represent many of the very best manufacturers, games creators and innovators in the global industry

“Their products generate the income that help to sustain seaside attractions, that breathe life into the high street and which provide a financial lifeline to pubs the length and breadth of the country.”

He continued: “Data released by the commercial real estate company, Altus Group  shows that 412 pubs were either demolished or converted for other uses during 2024 reducing the number of trading pubs across England and Wales to 38,989 – the first time the figure has fallen below 39,000.

“With many publicans fearing the worst the revenue streams provided by gaming machines, jukeboxes, pool equipment as well as the opportunities which exist in the dynamic competitive socialising space provide a source of inspiration for operators and Pub Companies many of whom will be present at EAG and also participating in the Bacta organised Pub Summit which is taking place at 1pm on 14 January, the opening day of the show.”

Turning his attention to the broader contributions made by EAG, Bacta’s Vice-President reflected. “A strong and vibrant EAG is important to Bacta on many different levels.

“It helps us to engage with our network of key external stakeholders not least the DCMS and the Gambling Commission, it helps foster collaborative relationships with our sister trade associations, it provides a platform to demonstrate our steadfast commitment to safer gambling and it drives our political program for the remainder of the year. Without EAG our effectiveness as a progressive and dynamic trade association promoting and protecting the business interests of our members would be diminished.

“I hope to see as many Bacta members and potential members as possible at ExCeL London for what will be the biggest edition of EAG Expo and one which starts arguably the most important year in our history.”

Visitors to EAG will have access to the very latest product launches and innovations in out of home entertainment, be able to share insights and experiences with industry colleagues, update on the latest industry developments courtesy of the Bacta Seminar program and learn more about the latest developments in social responsibility on the Bacta Safer Gambling Hub.