Buzz Bingo
Buzz Bingo sister sites include Buzz Casino.
Buzz Bingo (buzzbingo.com) is operated by Buzz Group Limited, 1 Castle Marina Road, Nottingham, NG7 1TN.
Buzz Bingo Sister Sites
Buzz Casino
For a very long time, the only iGaming site on the Buzz Group Limited platform was Buzz Bingo itself. The brand grew in the physical world when Gala Bingo decided to let go of a lot of its former bingo halls in 2015 and then moved online a few years later. Expansion wasn’t on its mind back then, but it surprised everyone in 2022 by launching Buzz Casino. It’s still the Buzz brand, but now it offers slots and other casino games as well as bingo. We see a problem with that approach, though, and the problem is that the Buzz BIngo website already has slots and casino games. Buzz Casino doesn’t do anything that Buzz Bingo doesn’t. In effect, it’s just a blue version of Buzz Bingo, minus the bingo games. After waiting all of this time for a new addition to the Buzz Bingo sister sites family, it’s a bit of a shame that when it turned up, it was a pale imitation of what we already had.
Alternative Buzz Bingo Sister Sites
There might be only one “true” Buzz Bingo sister site, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other sites like it. It’s just that those sites belong to different casino network companies. If you’re looking for something similar to Buzz Bingo, but you’ve either already played at or don’t like the sound of Buzz Casino, here are a few more that might tickle your fancy.
Mecca Bingo
Buzz Bingo probably wouldn’t be best pleased by us comparing it to Mecca Bingo. If we’re talking about alternative Buzz Bingo sister sites, though, it’s impossible not to mention the biggest bingo company in the UK. There are Mecca Bingo halls everywhere. Almost every big town and city in the UK has one, so there could well be one within walking distance of your house right now. Mecca Bingo is just as big a deal online as it is offline, welcoming thousands of players every day of the week and paying out thousands of pounds in prize money every day, too. Being such a big brand means Mecca Bingo can offer some substantial promotions and incentives and has a range of exclusive bingo products that other sites can’t replicate. Mecca Bingo is deserving of a visit for the same reasons Gala Bingo is. The chances are that if you don’t like one of them, you’ll like the other.
888 Bingo
888 Bingo used to be the premium bingo site on the massive 888 Holdings platform, but that changed in 2022. Nowadays, 888 Bingo isn’t part of the 888 Holdings platform at all. It’s still allowed to use the logo, but it actually belongs to Grand Battery Holdings Limited (which, in turn, is Broadway Gaming Limited in disguise). That’s a convoluted way of telling you that 888 Bingo isn’t what it used to be. It lost a lot of its exclusive games and promotions when it left the 888 platform for its new home, and it’s years overdue for a fresh coat of paint. Nevertheless, the 888 brand name and logo still carries value, so it remains popular with players even though it may no longer deserve to be. Still, though, if you’re looking for Buzz Bingo sister sites, you might want to stay close to the big names rather than trying the more experimental sites.
Foxy Bingo
Foxy Bingo enjoys a stellar reputation among players and is a well-known brand even to those who don’t use online casinos at all, so any list of alternative Buzz Bingo sister sites would be incomplete without it. Hosted by its iconic mascot “Foxy,” this site has been a staple of the UK bingo scene for well over a decade. It’s partaken in some very high-profile marketing activities during that time, including sponsoring popular TV shows like “Celebrity Juice” and “The Jeremy Kyle Show.” The runaway success of Foxy Bingo has allowed its parent company to launch Foxy Games, capitalising on the popularity of the name to sustain a whole new website full of online slots and casino classics. Foxy Bingo is a “fun first” bingo site that emphasises having a good time above all other things – and that’s precisely what a good bingo site should be all about.
Unibet Bingo
The Unibet brand is far better known for sports betting than it is for anything else, but that might change in the near future. Unibet is part of the Kindred Group of online casinos and gambling sites, as is 32Red. When 32Red decided to slim down its portfolio and stop offering bingo, it redirected all of its bingo customers to Unibet Bingo instead. That’s a massive vote of confidence from the people behind 32Red, and a reason why Unibet Bingo can be thought of as an alternative Buzz Bingo sister site even if it doesn’t have the same “household name” level of recognition. If we assume that Unibet approaches bingo with the same degree of professionalism and attention to detail that allowed them to become such a big name in the sporting world, we can probably expect Unibet Bingo to become one of the most outstanding names in its field within the next few years.
Sun Bingo
There are a few British newspapers that have dabbled with the world of online casinos and bingo sites, but none have put as much time, effort, and money into it as The Sun. The newspaper’s circulation figures might be dwindling, but it still attracts millions of readers to its website every day. That gives The Sun Bingo a massive marketing platform. The Sun rarely misses an opportunity to promote the fact that it has an online bingo brand, and that sustained push has made The Sun Bingo one of the busiest bingo sites in the country. Granted, The Sun isn’t a “specialist” bingo company in the same way that Buzz Bingo is, but if you’re looking for an alternative take on what a Buzz Bingo sister site could look like, you might find that The Sun Bingo’s unique approach to presentation and gaming might be the original twist you’ve been looking for.
Buzz Bingo News
: Things are buzzing away at the Buzz Bingo sister sites after the operator launched a new omnichannel bingo game. Earlier this week, the bingo news site Bingo Daily elaborated on how Buzz Bingo, which is now recognised as the UK’s most extensive retail bingo operator (replacing Mecca), has introduced a groundbreaking initiative with its latest bingo game, Big Money Live. This innovative game marks a major milestone as it’s the first in the UK to facilitate simultaneous play across physical locations and digital platforms. Whether you’re at one of the clubs or lounging comfortably at home, you can join in the excitement and contribute to the prize pool, which all players will have a shot at, for a minimal cost. This aspect is central to the game’s appeal and is encapsulated in its name, Big Money Live.
The game sessions are broadcast live from the Buzz Bingo studio, ensuring that players in bingo clubs and online participants via the Buzz Bingo app or website can experience the thrill in real time. From Sunday to Friday, the prize money totals £7,000, split between afternoon and evening games. Saturdays see an even larger pot of £10,000. Additionally, on the 26th of October, a special game will replace the usual schedule with a grand prize game worth £100,000, increasing the week’s total prize money to an impressive £147,000 and culminating in a monthly total of £303,000 in Big Money Live games. For newcomers, there’s the opportunity to play £10 on Big Money Live Games and receive £40 in bingo bonuses.
: It is hardly the most riveting news, but it is news nonetheless that Buzz Bingo is planning to install an electric vehicle charging station in the car park at its Sunderland bingo hall to help the location become more eco-friendly and accessible for EV owners. The proposal includes installing ten EV chargers in the establishment’s car park, located off Pallion New Road. This initiative, spearheaded by The Electric Vehicle Network, aims to improve the infrastructure for electric vehicles in the region. The project plans to offer six ultra-rapid chargers and four 7kw slow charging bays, alongside necessary equipment such as a substation and metering and safety equipment sites. Users won’t need to wait for long for their EVs to charge, but a quick few games at Buzz Bingo is the perfect way to kill time while you wait!
This move is part of a broader push towards environmental sustainability, aligning with governmental efforts to increase the adoption of electric vehicles to help decarbonise the economy. As more electric vehicles hit the roads, the demand for more robust and reliable charging infrastructure grows, highlighting the importance of projects like this. The planners have carefully selected the chargers to optimise the available power from the local grid while offering the fastest possible charging experience. The installation is planned to cover 27 existing parking bays to accommodate 16 EV bays, with some adjustments made to include accessible bays and the necessary equipment. While this will result in the reduction of 11 traditional parking bays, the developers consider this an acceptable trade-off for the benefits of a high-standard charging hub.
: The Burnley Express recently ran a heartwarming story about two of Buzz Bingo’s most loyal patrons receiving a card from King Charles as they celebrated their Diamond Wedding anniversary. The Birketts, who originally hail from Cumbria, settled in Burnley in 1966 following Alan’s career shift from farming to working at the former Michelin factory, a position he held until his retirement in 1993. Their love story began rather serendipitously at the Crown Inn in Pooley Bridge, where Alan was part of the darts team and Ann, having been out with friends in Penrith, stopped by for a drink. This chance meeting blossomed into a lifelong partnership, which saw them exchanging vows at St Patrick’s Church in Patterdale on St Swithin’s Day in 1964.
Beyond their careers—with Ann eventually becoming a cook at a residential home after working at Burnley Cricket Club—the couple also shared a passion for sequence dancing. They were active members in several local dance groups, often travelling with their dance companions for holidays both in the UK and abroad. The Birketts’ anniversary celebration was a familial affair attended by their daughters Diane and Pauline, sons-in-law Chris and Wilf, and twin grandsons Luke and Joshua. Known for their presence at Buzz Bingo, where they are considered familiar faces, the couple’s celebration also had a charitable angle. Instead of traditional gifts, they requested donations to Parkinson’s UK and a men’s cancer charity, reflecting their community spirit and consideration for others even during their personal milestones. This delightful tale not only underscores the enduring bond between Alan and Ann but also illustrates the close-knit community in Burnley.
: A deeply disconcerting article posted by Warrington Guardian detailed how a man recently entered a Buzz Bingo Hall wielding a knife and subsequently caused thousands of pounds of damage. The incident occurred on June 11 at the Buzz Bingo located at Cockhedge Centre in Warrington. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Constantin Lupo of Cobden Street, Orford, has been charged with possessing a knife in a public place, assault, actual bodily harm, and criminal damage. Lupo allegedly carried a folding pocket knife exceeding three inches without lawful authority and used it to damage five gambling machines, causing over £8,700 worth of damage. He also reportedly assaulted a man, inflicting actual bodily harm.
The police swiftly responded to the distressing situation, ensuring public safety and apprehending the suspect. Buzz Bingo has expressed shock and concern over the incident, underlining the seriousness of the damage inflicted on their property. The company has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for its patrons and is cooperating fully with the authorities. This incident has highlighted the importance of stringent security measures in public venues to prevent such alarming occurrences. However, it is hardly normal practice to frisk and bag search patrons of bingo halls! Lupo is scheduled to appear before Warrington Magistrates’ Court to face the charges. The community and Buzz Bingo patrons are understandably shaken by the event which is far more common in betting shops than bingo halls, but the swift police response and forthcoming legal proceedings provide some reassurance that such actions are being taken seriously.
: Even though music venues are shutting down up and down the country, one is set to open in Slough, which used to be a Buzz Bingo Hall until April 2023. The historic Adelphi Theatre, located on Bath Road, boasts a rich history, having opened in 1930 and hosting legendary performances from The Beatles, Roy Orbison, and Jimi Hendrix. The venue served as a bingo hall from 1973 until its closure last year. Now, the new owner aims to restore its former glory by renaming it the ‘Crystal Grand’ and transforming it back into a live music venue. The proposal includes hosting live music daily, with recorded music extending until 1am, along with the sale of alcohol and late-night refreshments until 12:30am. These plans have been submitted to Slough Borough Council for licensing approval, and the community has until July 2 to provide input.
The Adelphi Theatre, purchased by the council for £4.6 million in 2018, was sold last year to help alleviate the council’s debt pressures. The local community has shown a positive response to the renovation plans, eager to see the iconic venue revitalised. The transformation aims not only to restore the theatre’s historical significance but also to create a dynamic new space for local and touring artists, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of Slough. The return of the Adelphi as the Crystal Grand is anticipated to bring a fresh wave of entertainment, offering a platform for live music and enriching the area’s social and cultural landscape. This project symbolises a renewal of Slough’s commitment to maintaining its cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary entertainment needs.
: The bingo community is abuzz with news of a significant development: Merkur Casino is negotiating with Buzz Bingo over the potential sale of its Merkur Bingo Club in Northampton. This potential move aligns with Merkur Casino’s efforts to streamline operations and concentrate on its core gaming business. This potential acquisition by Buzz includes the bingo club in Cricklewood as well, signalling a consolidation in the industry. Buzz Bingo, known as the largest bingo operator in the UK, is seizing this opportunity to expand its footprint further. Dominic Mansour, Chief Executive of the modern bingo brand, highlighted that the acquisition of these clubs would bolster their robust network, cementing their status as a leading omnichannel bingo brand in the country. With Buzz’s business stabilising and thriving, this expansion is a testament to its resilience and growth in a sector that has been facing challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis.
For Buzz Bingo, acquiring these two prominent venues not only adds valuable assets to their portfolio but also aligns with their mission to be the top choice for bingo in both online and retail formats. This deal represents more than just a business transaction; it reflects a broader trend of consolidation in the bingo industry, driven by economic pressures and the need to innovate and stay competitive. The discussions between these two industry giants underscore a shared vision of providing enhanced entertainment experiences for their customers. While Merkur focuses on its core strengths in slots and casino operations, Buzz is poised to integrate and revitalise these new venues, promising continued success and enriched experiences for bingo players.
: Recent plans by McDonald’s to transform a cherished bingo hall in Hull into a drive-through restaurant have sparked dismay among its regular patrons. At the heart of the community, Buzz Bingo in Sutton Fields is more than a gaming venue; it is a social hub, particularly for the elderly, who view their bingo sessions as crucial to maintaining social interactions. Gail Crombie, an octogenarian regular, expressed her fears that replacing the bingo hall with a fast-food outlet would severely impact the social lives of many, noting that for some, the hall is like a second family, where everyone is warmly greeted and personal connections flourish. McDonald’s is currently conducting an online survey to assess community sentiment about the proposed site redevelopment. They are actively seeking feedback, urging the community to share their views on the impact of such a change.
The company suggests that the new restaurant could generate up to 120 jobs, highlighting potential economic benefits. Meanwhile, Buzz Bingo has reassured its patrons that it remains open for business as usual, with a secure lease agreement that promises continued bingo activities in Hull for the time being. This situation has left many locals not ‘loving it,’ as they face the unsettling prospect of losing a beloved social venue. The community now waits anxiously as opinions are gathered until the survey’s deadline, with hopes that their voices will influence the final decision. The potential closure of Buzz Bingo is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between business development and community welfare.
: A significant change is on the horizon for Buzz Bingo, one of Britain’s largest bingo operators, as its owner, Intermediate Capital Group (ICG), has employed the banking group Nomura to manage the sale of the club in 2024. This development, first reported by Mark Kleinman on Sky News, marks a pivotal moment for the bingo brand, which ICG has owned since 2021. The exact timing of the auction and ICG’s pricing expectations remain uncertain, with insiders indicating that the sale’s initiation will depend on market conditions. Buzz Bingo, known for its extensive network of over 80 clubs across the country and a robust digital presence offering online bingo rooms, slot games, and other gaming products, was acquired by ICG from Caledonia Investments during the COVID-19 pandemic for a nominal sum.
The pandemic severely impacted the company’s finances, as evidenced by post-tax losses of £17.9 million in the year to January 14, a slight improvement from the previous year’s loss of over £40 million. Despite these challenges, ICG provided additional financial support of £12 million to Buzz Bingo, and borrowing facilities with ICG and Barclays were extended to 2027. This news comes at a time when the leisure industry is facing significant shifts, highlighted by the recent administration and partial rescue of another bingo operator, Majestic Bingo. As Buzz Bingo prepares for this major transition under new ownership, the industry and its patrons are keenly observing how these changes will shape the future of one of the UK’s most beloved leisure activities.
: In a somewhat unconventional approach to celebrity gossip, Buzz Bingo, following in the footsteps of Heart Bingo’s marketing strategies, collaborated with a psychic to delve into the relationship dynamics of Molly Mae Hague and Tommy Fury. This move, which might seem slightly surreal, involved analysing the couple’s astrological compatibility and consulting tarot cards to predict the future of their relationship. Molly Mae, a Gemini, and Tommy Fury, a Taurus, have recently been the subject of split rumours. However, they have consistently presented a united front, suggesting their relationship is robust. Psychic and mystic expert Inbaal Honigman, working with Buzz Bingo sister sites, examined their star signs and concluded that despite being polar opposites astrologically, Molly Mae and Tommy could have a lasting love match. Inbaal emphasised the importance of both partners cultivating their lives and careers outside of their relationship to appreciate their differences rather than resent them.
Inbaal also turned to tarot cards for further insights, drawing the 10 of Disks card, symbolising “investments and commitments” between the couple. This reading suggests a strong bond and a willingness to fight for their relationship, particularly from Tommy’s side, given his Taurean traits of loyalty and introversion. The couple, who met on the ITV reality show ‘Love Island’ in 2019, have recently been seen together at a Christmas carol concert with their daughter Bambi, further quelling rumours of a split. Molly Mae has also been spotted wearing her £600k engagement ring again after previously being seen without it. She has openly discussed the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the public eye, acknowledging that it’s not always “sunshine and roses”.
: Gala Leisure, a prominent name in the UK bingo scene, is undergoing a significant transformation, rebranding its remaining iconic Gala Bingo clubs to Buzz Bingo. This strategic move, backed by a hefty £40 million investment, aims to rejuvenate the traditional bingo experience and attract a younger demographic. The rebranding initiative will see the gradual conversion of all Gala Leisure clubs across the UK to the Buzz Bingo brand, starting with two pilot clubs. The rebranding is part of Gala Leisure’s broader strategy to redefine the bingo experience and expand its appeal. The term “buzz” was chosen as it resonates with the excitement and energy associated with the game, a sentiment frequently expressed by their customers. Chris Matthews, CEO of Gala Leisure, emphasised the importance of preserving the community spirit and relationships that are central to the bingo experience while reaching out to a new generation of players.
A pivotal aspect of this rebranding is Gala Leisure’s partnership with Playtech, a renowned software developer. This collaboration brings an array of engaging and popular game titles to Buzz Bingo clubs, including well-known slots like Batman and the Riddler Riches and Superman The Movie. Playtech’s involvement is expected to enhance the gaming experience significantly, offering a modern and diverse range of entertainment options. The rebranding also marks Gala Leisure’s departure from its previous identity under Gala Group Investments. Following various mergers and acquisitions, Gala Leisure, now owned by Caledonia Investments, does not hold the rights to operate the Gala brand online. This separation has prompted the shift to Buzz Bingo, allowing the company to venture into online markets without legal constraints.
: Buzz Bingo has taken a festive detour from their usual bingo calling to delve into the UK’s favourite Christmas karaoke songs. Their survey of over 2,000 UK residents has revealed that 40% of respondents favour Wham’s ‘Last Christmas’ as their top choice for a seasonal sing-along. Not far behind are ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ by Wizzard and ‘Fairytale of New York’ by The Pogues, the latter of which is gaining particular attention this year. Following the passing of Shane MacGowan, the band’s frontman, on 30th November, there’s a growing movement to propel ‘Fairytale of New York’ to the top of the charts this Christmas. In a surprising twist, LadBaby, known for their string of festive number-one tracks over the past five years, have announced they won’t be releasing a Christmas single this year. This opens up the competition for the coveted Christmas number-one spot.
The survey also shed light on the UK’s broader karaoke preferences. ABBA’s ‘Dancing Queen’ emerged as the nation’s favourite karaoke song, with 32% of the votes. It’s followed by Gloria Gaynor’s ‘I Will Survive’ and the Bee Gees’ ‘Stayin’ Alive’, ensuring a disco-themed karaoke night. When it comes to regional preferences, Belfast stands out as the UK’s karaoke capital, with a whopping 73% of respondents expressing their enthusiasm for karaoke. Glasgow and a tie between London and Manchester follow closely behind. Interestingly, Edinburgh residents show some reluctance towards karaoke, though they might be persuaded on a night out with friends. The study also revealed that ‘Dancing Queen’ is a unifying anthem across the UK, topping the karaoke charts in all regions, except Birmingham, where ‘I Will Survive’ marginally edged it out.
: B&M, a popular discount retailer in Manchester, is set to expand its Harpurhey store, taking over the adjacent former Buzz Bingo Hall. This move will more than double B&M’s footprint at the shopping centre, growing from 18,300 sq ft to a substantial 40,500 sq ft off Lee Road. Manchester City Council has approved the plans, which involve demolishing the vacant bingo hall and reconfiguring the existing warehouse to provide additional staff and storage space. The expansion will also include a new entrance, with external alterations kept to a minimum. This development comes after the Harpurhey bingo hall closed in 2021, leaving the site empty in the aftermath of the pandemic. The expansion of B&M is not just about increasing retail space; it addresses the urgent need to secure a sustainable, long-term future for the former bingo site. The project, which was submitted for planning in September, is expected to create an additional 25 jobs locally, contributing positively to the community’s economy.
The closure of the Buzz Bingo Hall is reflective of a broader trend where traditional bingo halls are struggling, with many turning to online platforms to thrive. Buzz Bingo, for instance, has been focusing on its online presence, adapting to changing consumer habits and the increasing shift towards digital entertainment. The expansion of B&M in this context is a significant development for the local community, offering job opportunities and revitalising a previously unused space. However, it also highlights the changing landscape of entertainment and retail, where physical spaces are being repurposed to meet current market demands.
: The former premises of Buzz Bingo in Grantham, a town on the cusp of Lincolnshire, has entered the property market, boasting a substantial price of £1.2 million. This notable edifice, positioned conveniently just off the A1 on Venture Way, has transitioned from a local entertainment venue to a significant real estate opportunity after its recent closure. Eddisons incorporating Banks Long & Co are orchestrating the sale, presenting the site with an interesting prospect as it comes with an occupational lease to Buzz Group Limited. The lease is active until June 2025 and generates an annual rent of £120,000, exclusive of additional costs. The architectural design of the building is functional and robust, consisting of a steel portal frame structure with steel sheet cladding and a fibre-cement sheet roof. Inside, the property reflects its former use as a Bingo Hall, with a spacious open plan area designated for gaming, finished with carpeting, painted walls, and a suspended ceiling equipped with modern lighting.
The interior also features essential auxiliary spaces, including offices, a catering kitchen, staff quarters, customer toilets, and storage areas. Externally, the property boasts an extensive parking facility, indicative of its capability to accommodate a high volume of visitors—a testament to its past as a bustling community spot. The site spans an expansive 0.77 hectares (1.91 acres), offering potential investors a substantial parcel of land along with the building. The sale of this property, once a pillar of local entertainment as Buzz Bingo, reflects a shift in the usage of such communal spaces, presenting a unique opportunity for redevelopment or commercial use in Grantham.
: In an era marked by resilience and recovery, some sectors have flourished post-Covid, while others grapple with lingering challenges. A recent piece by iGaming Business sheds light on the latter, highlighting the struggles faced by the prominent UK-based bingo brand, Buzz Bingo. With hopes pinned on a robust post-pandemic comeback, it comes as a disheartening revelation that the bingo brand faced obstacles so challenging that they had to shut down 10% of their bingo halls in the UK earlier this year. A move of such magnitude, shutting doors on places that once echoed with excitement and camaraderie, is indicative of the gravity of their predicament. To quantify the challenges, specific figures paint a sobering picture. The brand recorded significant percentage losses, which has become a source of concern for its stakeholders. Such data serves as a poignant reminder of how unpredictable market recoveries can be, even for well-established entities
However, every cloud has a silver lining. In the face of adversity, the brand isn’t just folding its cards. They’re in the midst of strategising, brainstorming, and implementing solutions to rectify the issues at hand. While the journey ahead may be strewn with challenges, it’s the brand’s resilience and commitment to bouncing back that will define its future trajectory. All in all, the situation underscores the complex dynamics of post-pandemic market recoveries. As sectors and brands navigate this terrain, stories such as these serve as both cautionary tales and beacons of hope. The industry will undoubtedly watch keenly as the bingo brand charts its path forward.
Can Buzz Bingo Be Trusted?
★★★★★
Buzz Bingo is a 4-star trusted casino.
1. Licenses and Fines | Buzz Group Limited holds a UK Gambling Commission licence, but was fined £780,000 in November 2021 for breaking licence conditions. More information about this is available below. |
2. Accepts UK players? | This is a British brand, and was made for UK players. |
3. Trustpilot Score | After over 1100 reviews, Buzz Bingo has a solid reference of 3.8 out of 5.0. |
4. Operator Name & Location | Buzz Group Limited is based in Nottingham. |
5. Bonus Terms | x20 on slots bonuses, x4 on bingo bonuses. |
6. Customer Support | Live chat, telephone and email support are all provided. |
7. Withdrawal Speed & Options | Debit cards plus one other method of your choosing, be that PayPal, PaySafe or something else. Most withdrawals are processed within one hour. |
8. Number of Sister Sites | Buzz Casino is the only other member of the Buzz Bingo sister sites family. |
9. Games portfolio | Lots of exclusive and non-exclusive bingo rooms plus hundreds of slots. |
10. On GamStop? | Buzz Bingo is on GamStop. |
Overall SCORE > | ★★★★★ – 4/5 Stars |
Buzz Bingo Review 2024
Buzz Bingo is a spin-off from the much larger Gala Bingo brand. It’s run by the same company that owns and operates the Gala Bingo halls that can be found up and down the United Kingdom. The Buzz Bingo brand was launched with some fanfare in 2018 as a Playtech-powered bingo and slots site and has won a couple of awards during its relatively brief time online thus far. As it passes the five-year mark, is it still worthy of your time? This is the review that will tell you.
Buzz Bingo Welcome Offers
If it’s your first time at Buzz Bingo, you can claim a welcome promotion worth £40 in bingo bonuses, accompanied by two hundred free spins to be used on the slots that come with the site. However, not all of the £40 bingo bonus is playable online – it’s a £30 bonus for the website and a further £10 to be redeemed in person at your nearest Buzz Bingo hall. That’s not a great deal of use if there isn’t one close to you. To get the bonus, register a Buzz Bingo account and deposit £10, then spend it on bingo games. You’ll need to deposit and spend another £10 on slots if you want to claim the further bonus of two hundred free spins on one of the site’s top-performing slots.
The wagering requirements for the promotion are buried in the terms and conditions, but they’re set at x4 for the bingo bonus and x20 for anything won from the free spins. They’re not bad as far as wagering requirements go, but the site ought to be more upfront about them.
Ongoing Promotions
The list of additional Buzz Bingo promotions is long, complicated, and forever changing. Instead of having a loyalty scheme or anything similar, Buzz Bingo likes to stack its site with attractive promotions that last for a few days or a few weeks and are then gone forever. At the time we wrote this review, for example, there was a special “Pennies to Hundreds” bingo room that promised big jackpots for the low price of 1p per ticket. There was also the “Bingo Whirly Wheel,” which could be spun once per day by every player for a guaranteed bingo bonus worth up to £5 every day. A similar promotion (the “Sizzling Slots Spinner”) worked the same way but dished out free spins on slots rather than bingo bonuses. In general terms, though, players are best advised to check out the promos page for themselves to find out what’s new and interesting each time they arrive at the Buzz Bingo website. Just bear in mind that you’ll probably have to look hard to find the associated wagering requirements of the promotions.
What are the Pros and Cons of Buzz Bingo?
Pros: Buzz Bingo offers excellent customer support and several hundred casino games to complement the fine range of busy bingo rooms that are the brand’s hallmark. It’s one of only a handful of UK bingo sites that offer rewards that can be used in person as well as online and has the backing of a major, well-known brand.
Cons: While Buzz Bingo is generally seen as a high-quality bingo site, it doesn’t come without issues. 24-48 hours to process withdrawal requests plus a further 3-5 days to get funds to you is too slow for a top site in the modern age, and the fact that the UKGC has seen fit to fine the company in the recent past is the opposite of a vote of confidence. The poor reviews that Buzz Bingo occasionally receives at Trustpilot suggest that players don’t always have the best of times here.
Featured Slots and Casino Games
We’ve praised the selection of slots at Buzz Bingo a couple of times already in this review, but we shouldn’t forget that Buzz Bingo is primarily a bingo site. All of its other attractions have to take second billing to the slots. When it comes to bingo, the range of options is incredible. There’s a new room available about once every thirty seconds at all times of day, and even outside peak hours, you’ll always find a few dozen people inside those rooms. The most popular among them tend to be the ones we’ve identified below.
The Voice Bingo: This, as the name suggests, is a themed bingo room connected to the popular TV talent show. It comes with a jackpot of £500 and costs 4p per ticket to play. The Voice Bingo is an 80-ball bingo game, so it’s played a little faster than the kind of bingo that you’re likely to find on offer in the real-world Buzz Bingo halls.
1p Bingo: Bingo doesn’t have to be expensive. So long as everyone’s having fun, the room is doing its job! 1p Bingo is exactly what it sounds like. Bingo is played at just 1pm per ticket with a jackpot value of £3 per time. You won’t ever get rich playing in the 1p room, but it’s one of the busiest and friendliest rooms at the site.
Deal or No Deal Bingo: Because the Deal or No Deal bingo rooms are hooked up to a progressive jackpot, you could win up to £40,000 playing inside them. Check the jackpot figure before you enter the room. Winning so much as a single game in this 75 ball bingo room is worth £60, and tickets cost 5p per time.
The slots, live casino, and table games sections of Buzz Bingo are all “nice to have,” but the bingo rooms are what truly makes this site stand out.
Deposits and Withdrawal Methods
Every major UK debit card is accepted at Buzz Bingo. In addition to that, the site accepts Apple Pay, Paysafe Card vouchers, and PayPal. Be aware that only one of PayPal, PaySafe, or Apple Pay can be added to your account alongside your debit card.
Withdrawals are a mixed bag. Buzz Bingo claims to be able to get withdrawals to you within one hour of a request being made, but only in cases where “faster payments” have been approved. Under normal circumstances, you’ll be waiting between one and two days for Buzz Bingo to process your withdrawal request and then a further two to five days to actually get your money.
Customer Support and Licensing
Buzz Bingo offers full telephone support every day, beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at 10 p.m. You’re welcome to use live chat either during or outside those hours, and email support is available, too. You might also be able to get further assistance on the official Buzz Bingo social media platforms.
Buzz Bingo is fully licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, with account number 2355. However, in November 2021, the company was fined £780,000 after failing to comply with licence conditions regarding customer interaction and preventing money laundering. A formal warning was also handed down. Nevertheless, the licence remains valid and covers the Buzz Bingo sister sites.
Buzz Bingo – The Verdict
On the surface, Buzz Bingo looks like a great bingo and casino site. It has a massive games portfolio, busy bingo rooms, and exciting promotions. However, it sometimes gets slammed by reviewers at Trustpilot, and it’s incurred the displeasure of the UK Gambling Commission, having been issued with both a fine and a warning. Lessons have been learned from these failures, though, and the current version of Buzz Bingo is the best the brand has ever been. Recent rises in the site’s Trustpilot score reflect the improved mood among its players.
What are players saying about Buzz Bingo?
Here are our condensed / readers digest summaries of recent player reviews of Buzz Bingo.
- 10-May-2024 by Gaynor:
Signed up for online Buzz and love it! There are games starting from 1p, friendly Chat Stars, and a variety of games. I’ve enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and gone in every day with spending limits. It’s been a lot of fun. – source: Trustpilot - 10-May-2024 by Elaine:
Good variety of games and slots, and the payout is fairly quick. – source: Trustpilot - 10-May-2024 by Frankie:
The process is quick, easy, and very pleasant. – source: Trustpilot - 09-May-2024 by Emma:
Avoid the online site as it is just as bad as in the club! It takes all your money and doesn’t pay out anything. The app has become extremely greedy. – source: Trustpilot - 07-May-2024 by Denise:
Always friendly, good fun, good entertainment, well priced, and good offers. Well recommended. – source: Trustpilot - 05-May-2024 by Karen:
Love the ‘Spin a Win’ game, always guaranteed a prize if you pick all 6 numbers. I received bonuses from Buzz like £44.90 and another £30, won plenty of times in less than 6 months on the app. There’s a spending limit feature for responsible gaming. Highly recommended. – source: Trustpilot - 03-May-2024 by Connor:
Absolutely spectacular service and I always go back due to their great customer support. – source: Trustpilot - 03-May-2024 by Shirley:
Staff always very friendly and helpful. – source: Trustpilot - 03-May-2024 by Miroslaw:
No chance of winning here. Don’t even try. Tried several times, and even if you get a bonus, it pays pennies. Bad experience overall. – source: Trustpilot - 03-May-2024 by Neil:
Great experience with my bingo, love it! Great staff who are friendly and helpful. – source: Trustpilot
The Buzz Bingo Community
Buzz Bingo has an incredibly strong brand identity. So much so, that they’ve created their very own lingo – that is on top of the bingo lingo that new players need to get to grips with.
Here is everything you need to know to get stuck into the Buzz Bingo community:
- •Next to the promo tab, players will find the Buzzone tab, which gives access to the communication hub on the casino. The casino is a big advocate of players getting social during their time playing on the site. On this tab, players will find everything from fun and engaging articles to announcements of fun new features hitting the site. It is easy to get a little overwhelmed by everything that is going on here, but there’s a YouTube video on the landing page which will help you to get acquainted.
- •Bingo rooms are only as fun as the chat hosts – unless you’re set to win big, obviously. Buzz Bingo gives players the chance to get acquainted with their Chat Stars, by sharing short interviews with the chat hosts; allowing players to see them as more than just a name and a face.
- •Buzz Bingo wouldn’t be the same without Roger, the main provider of all the site’s livestream content, and players will get to hear from him a lot in the community hub. He goes live every Wednesday at 8pm to share exciting new updates, run Q&A sessions, and give players handy bingo tips.
- •Last but not least, Buzz Bingo also runs a regularly updated blog. Some of their most recent posts have included a curation of the best spooky Halloween games and the announcement of their Mad Hatter Day which give an insight into the creative mind of Lewis Carrol.
Buzz Bingo TV Adverts
The last video ad launched by Buzz Bingo hit social media channels in 2020, days before the ad aired on UK national television. The short and pretty ad ran for just 20 seconds, but that is all the time that the bingo brand needed to pique the interest of bingo fans.
The ad enlisted the help of a man in a bear suit holding up the Buzz Bingo logo. The main focus of the explosive and colourful ad was the announcement that for registered and depositing players, free bingo games are available between the hours of 10am – 8pm every day. At the time of writing, the promotion had changed, free bingo was available between the hours of 10am – 1am and 3pm – 6pm. Getting the free bingo tickets is more than easy. Players just need to head to the free bingo room to receive free game tickets. For players looking for a big bingo win, they can upgrade their bingo ticket at a cost of 10p.
Buzz Bingo Offered a Very Festive Prize in December 2024
It is nothing new for dreams to come true on Buzz Bingo, but during the run-up to Christmas 2021, they offered one lucky person their dream job. Buzz Bingo announced that one lucky winner would be tasked to find out what the best Christmas movie is. To compensate the reviewer for their time spent watching 14 of the biggest Christmas movies, the bingo brand paid £1,000 for the festive film marathon, plus they supplied all of the festive snacks. The hamper that was delivered to the winner’s home included the Christmas staple food, mince pies, along with hot drinking chocolate and a nostalgia-inducing selection box.
The verdict is yet to be announced on which of the 14 movies won, considering that The Holiday, A Nightmare Before Christmas, Love Actually, Home Alone, Elf, Die Hard and How the Grinch Stole Christmas are part of the film marathon, it is going to be an incredibly tough call.
How Buzz Bingo Supports Local Communities
Buzz Bingo’s social responsibility is noted in everything it does. It not only cares about its players by advocating healthy gambling habits, but during the pandemic, it also did its best to support key workers. Buzz Bingo colleagues did everything from creating PPE for care homes to delivering medication to vulnerable people to hosting online uplifting videos to engage the local community.
Inspired by the work of their colleagues, Buzz Bingo opened up the car parks at their physical locations, they became mobile testing sites and a place where key workers could park for free. Their mission to reward key workers for all of their hard work didn’t end there, they are looking into how they can support them going forward as clubs reopen.
Buzz Bingo Sponsorships and Partnerships
Buzz Bingo landed their biggest sponsorship deal to date when they signed as the official gaming partner of the popular TV show, The Voice. The ITV talent programme has become one of the biggest music-based TV competitions currently on TV, and Buzz Bingo has a 3-year sponsorship deal with them which will give them plenty of exposure. Stevie Shaves., the chief digital officer at Buzz Bingo credited the major brand overhaul that took place in 2019 for the partnership deal.
Buzz Bingo gained the rights to the theme tune, which now features in the officially licenced The Voice online slot game, and the official bingo game that will be coming to venues all across the UK. The Voice UK Bingo game packs in plenty of extra excitement compared to your average online bingo game. If a player is lucky enough to get a full house and turn the red chairs around, they get the chance to win a bonus prize and a slice of the jackpot!
The Voice online slot game has even more bonus features than the bingo game, and Buzz Bingo runs new promotions for the game every week—which can be found in the promotions tab. Fans can even win tickets to the TV Show via tournaments and promotions. In the main mode of play, prizes of 6,250 coins are up for grabs, plus plenty of free spins and reel modifiers.