So far in 2015, a total of 46 new bingo sites have been launched, but of those just one third have included a free bingo no deposit bonus deal for new members.
Cozy Games bingo sites offer free bingo and are in the minority
The bingo sites that have launched with a no deposit bonus offer are mainly operating on the Cozy Games platform, which has always included a £5 or £10 free offer with new sites. However, rumour has it that even long-time fans of this type of introductory offer are going to drop them altogether in the near future. If the 11 Cozy Games sites – Lucky Ladies Bingo, Girly Bingo, Merlin Bingo, Honey Bees Bingo, Quack Pot Bingo, Champers Bingo, Wowingo, Rockin Bingo, The Prize Finder Bingo, Lucky Socks Bingo, and Bingo1 – had all launched without a no deposit bonus, this deal would be near extinct. The free trial has long been used by online gaming sites to entice new members, but there are increasing numbers of people signing up to sites solely for the no deposit offer, making it less popular with developers.
Is the cause Point of Consumption tax?
Another contributing factor is Point of Consumption tax, which was introduced last year. This means that all online gaming operators, including those based abroad, are now liable to pay tax at the rate of 15% on stakes by UK players – this includes bonuses. In recent months, a new type of promotion has become more popular. Rather than a bonus, some sites are offering free bingo tickets. This may help operators avoid paying tax in the UK, but with wagering requirements on the winnings, it might mean sites start losing customers.