A Staffordshire-based gaming operator has secured six-figure funding to expand its estate and grow its online presence in the UK leisure market.
Real Fun Group has used the working capital facility, provided by alternative finance lender Reward Funding, to acquire a bingo hall in Lowestoft from MERKUR Bingo.
The company, founded in 2023 by entrepreneurs Kevin McGinnigle and David Gallimore, now operates 11 bingo clubs across England and Wales. It was established to acquire and run leading leisure brands Witnall Automatics and Majestic Bingo.
The latest deal follows a seven-figure facility arranged last year by Reward to support Real Fun Group’s acquisition of the Majestic Bingo estate, which allowed it to take control of eight venues that were acquired out of administration in December 2023. That move gave the business the necessary licences to trade nationally and formed part of its strategy to revive the traditional UK bingo experience.
Kevin McGinnigle (pictured, right), founder of Real Fun Group, said: “Reward’s ongoing support has been instrumental in helping us scale quickly and seize strategic market opportunities. From day one, they have taken the time to understand our business, our model, and the potential of the leisure and entertainment market.
“Key to the finance deal being completed was the trust and confidence Real Fun Group has built with Reward as a funding partner.
“The Lowestoft bingo hall was still trading prior to the acquisition and this established relationship meant that it was in a strong position to act quickly when the opportunity arose and have the finance in place to secure the site and reopen immediately to avoid losing additional revenue.
“After the successful acquisition of the Majestic estate, it made perfect sense to return to Reward for this next phase because we have found a lender we trust and one that has been a true partner in our journey so far.”
Gareth Boardman (pictured, left), client relationship manager at Reward Funding, said: “Real Fun Group is a prime example of the kind of entrepreneurial business we are proud to support.
“From their first acquisition to this latest deal, Kevin and David have shown a clear vision for the company. As a long-term client, they demonstrate how our tailored approach to funding continues to meet the needs of growing businesses across the UK.”
