Rank to reopen Mecca Bingo halls from 4 July

Rank Group is to commence a phased reopening of its Mecca Bingo halls from 4 July, after the UK government relaxed further restrictions related to the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

In accordance with government guidelines, a total of 36 Mecca Bingo clubs will reopen this weekend, with Rank’s other clubs to follow from mid-July onwards.

Only certain clubs in England will reopen from 4 July, with clubs in Scotland and Wales to restart operations when permitted by each country’s government.

All Mecca Bingo venues will operate in line with stringent safety standards and cleaning measures devised by Rank. These include enhanced cleaning routines, while visitors will be required to sanitise their hands regularly when at the club.

Social distancing will be in place throughout all clubs, with Rank putting in place a capacity cap so that numbers are carefully managed at its venues.

Rank will also launch a pre-booking service so that Mecca customers can secure their space to play, pre-order food and drinks, while new game sessions will be added and opening hours extended to allow more people to play.

In addition, Rank will introduce extra ‘Mecca Cares’ sessions to offer additional support to players following an extended period of lockdown in the UK.

“We want to reassure the Mecca Bingo community that we are working together to take every precaution necessary to create a safe environment in which to play the nation’s favourite game,” Mecca Bingo’s managing director of retail, Jonathon Swaine, said.

“We’re also investing in new entertainment formats in our clubs, to give everyone even better experiences. We are excited to reopen our doors, welcome back our communities and hear ‘House’ called once again.”