Staffordshire-based gaming company Real Fun Group has secured a six-figure funding deal from alternative finance lender Reward Funding to support the purchase of a bingo hall in Lowestoft, Suffolk.
The site, acquired from MERKUR Bingo, strengthens the group’s portfolio of leisure venues and expands its footprint in the UK bingo sector.
Founded in 2023 by entrepreneurs Kevin McGinnigle and David Gallimore, Real Fun Group operates 11 traditional bingo clubs across England and Wales.
The company was established to acquire and operate the leisure assets Witnall Automatics and Majestic Bingo, with the latest deal continuing its strategy to revitalise the UK’s bingo and entertainment experience.
The funding follows an earlier seven-figure facility provided by Reward last year, which enabled Real Fun Group to acquire the Majestic Bingo estate. That transaction included eight venues purchased out of administration in December 2023, giving the group the licences and infrastructure to accelerate growth.
Kevin McGinnigle, 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, client relationship manager for 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.”
