Bobcat, a brand of Doosan Bobcat, has won a significant order for 90 PA7.2 portable air compressors from Speedy Services, one of the UK’s leading providers of tools, equipment and plant hire. This latest order underscores Speedy’s confidence in Bobcat’s outstanding service, strong existing relationship and industry-leading reputation. Speedy Services
Heather Fleming tells trade association how apprenticeship set her on the path to a successful career 37 years ago… Campaigning trade association SELECT has tracked down Scotland’s first-ever female electrical apprentice to discuss her career journey in an inspiring new video for Scottish Apprenticeship Week. Former textile machinist Heather Fleming
Developers are facing construction delays of more than 18 months and additional costs of up to £49,000 per week due to safety regulations such as the Building Safety Act (BSA), according to new data from the Purposeful Finance Commission (PFC). A report published today by the PFC highlights how the
A recently completed build-to-rent scheme located in the heart of Glasgow has been refinanced following a £14.4m loan from Secure Trust Bank (STB) Real Estate Finance. The three-year residential property investment loan has been provided to Maven Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm. It was used to refinance an external development facility
A local Priors Hall Park School student is over the moon following an ‘out of this world’ gift from a housebuilder. Last year, 9-year-old pupil Jasper won a competition to design a bedroom, held by housebuilder Davidsons Homes for its stunning showhome at Kirby Woodlands. As part of his prize,
The Digital Shift in Health and Safety As we move into 2025, the construction and real estate industries in the UK are embracing digital transformation at an unprecedented pace. With stricter regulations, evolving safety standards, and greater accountability, construction companies are turning to digital tools to enhance compliance, improve worker
As we move through 2025, the construction and real estate industries are experiencing a transformative shift driven by digital innovation. The demand for efficiency, seamless communication, and real-time project tracking has never been higher. With the growing complexity of construction projects and real estate developments, professionals are turning to mobile
Online casino and sports book gambling might be grabbing the headlines these days, but there has also been a surge in takings across the land-based sector. Many people feared that the pandemic would drive people to gamble online and that they would make the internet their venue of choice. However,
Bobcat, a brand of Doosan Bobcat, has won a significant order for 90 PA7.2 portable air compressors from Speedy Services, one of the UK’s leading providers of tools, equipment and plant hire. This latest order underscores Speedy’s confidence in Bobcat’s outstanding service, strong existing relationship and industry-leading reputation. Speedy Services has been a long-term partner of Bobcat, choosing the brand not only for its high-quality products but also for its commitment to reliability, innovation and sustainability. The PA7.2 compressor from Bobcat provides a free air delivery of 2.0 m³/min (70 cfm) and is built for high performance and durability. The compressors at Speedy Services have been supplied with fully bunded bases to ensure complete spill protection and compliance with the latest environmental regulations. This latest deal highlights Bobcat’s position as a trusted supplier in the equipment hire industry, providing market-leading products backed by exceptional service and environmental responsibility. In addition to this order, Speedy Services has also chosen to incorporate Bobcat’s ECOmizer technology into its fleet, ensuring that all new compatible models it purchases in the future from Bobcat will feature this fuel-saving innovation. The Bobcat ECOmizer system automatically adjusts engine speed during periods of low demand, significantly reducing fuel consumption, emissions and operating costs. Depending on the idle time of the machine, the ECOmizer system can deliver fuel savings of up to 70%, helping Speedy Services further enhance its environmental and cost-efficiency goals. By making ECOmizer a standard across its fleet where compatible, Speedy is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable operations and smart fleet management. Nick Kealy, UK Sales Manager for the Bobcat Portable Power range, expressed his enthusiasm about the deal, stating: “We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Speedy Services through this major order. Their continued trust in our brand reflects our reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable and environmentally responsible equipment. Speedy’s decision to implement ECOmizer across all compatible models further demonstrates their commitment to sustainability, and we look forward to supporting their operational needs in the future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Heather Fleming tells trade association how apprenticeship set her on the path to a successful career 37 years ago… Campaigning trade association SELECT has tracked down Scotland’s first-ever female electrical apprentice to discuss her career journey in an inspiring new video for Scottish Apprenticeship Week. Former textile machinist Heather Fleming tells viewers how she got her big break 37 years ago, how she insisted on being treated as an equal to her male counterparts – and why she still believes an apprenticeship is an invaluable way to help climb the career ladder. Produced in partnership with the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), the video has also been released ahead of International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March. In the film, entitled Blazing a Trail, Heather reveals how she switched careers when she joined SELECT Member firm HF Electrical in Glasgow in 1988. She says: “I was working as a sewing machinist in a factory and had the afternoon off, so went to the local careers office and found a leaflet called Would You Like to be an Electrician? “Electricity had always been like black magic – it was just there – so it piqued my interest and I thought, ‘I’ll go for it and if I don’t get it, I don’t get it.’ “I was sent for an aptitude test and then told, ‘You’ve passed everything. Where would you like to work?’ I had no idea so they set me up with an interview at HF, I got the job and started work.” Heather duly became Scotland’s first female electrical apprentice, attending Clydebank College – now West College Scotland – but insists she was never given any special treatment. She tells the film: “HF looked after me but there was never any, ‘Wow, you’re the first’. I still had a job to do and there was an attitude of, ‘This person is part of our team and we will make sure we give her opportunities.’ “Although I’d gone from a very female-oriented job to a very male oriented one, for my own part it was just a job and I didn’t think it was any big deal.” Heather also said she also insisted on equality as she continued her studies at Stow College, night school and university, revealing: “I was the only female in most classes and sometimes the lecturers would say, ‘We’d like to put you forward for something because you’re female.’ “But I always said, ‘I’m not the best person for that, not if there’s a guy that’s better than me – put them forward’. Just because you’re a female you don’t need to be promoted more.” After rising through the ranks and working at a consultancy, Heather gained a degree in Building Services and is now an engineer with the Estates Department at the University of Edinburgh, who are also members of SELECT. She said: “Life is about earning money and having a good lifestyle and an apprenticeship will get you to the stage of having a good job and being able to go up the tree.” The video also comes more than three decades after Heather discussed her apprenticeship in SELECT’s cabletalk magazine, in which she said: “Sometimes there’s some taunting on-site, but I try to ignore it and if that doesn’t work I just give it back to them.” And she said: “I think the attitude to women in the workplace in general has changed since then. I just think it’s a natural progression and I’ve been accepted in every job that I’ve been to.” SELECT Director of Employment Affairs Catherine Gillon said: “As we celebrate achievements of electricians everywhere as part of our 125th anniversary, we are grateful to Heather and the University of Edinburgh for giving up their time and allowing us to discuss her journey in the industry. “Some 37 years after we first interviewed her, it is heartening to see that Heather is still working in our sector. It shows that with a solid apprenticeship and the ongoing support of industry bodies like SELECT and SECTT, anything is achievable.” SECTT CEO Fiona Harper added: “Heather’s story is an inspiring one and is the perfect example for Scottish Apprenticeship Week as it shows the rewards and opportunities that are available to young learners starting out on their own career path. “As we look ahead to International Women’s Day, it also shows that there are no barriers in the electrotechnical industry and we should rightfully celebrate the achievements of the many women who currently enjoy successful careers at all levels of the sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developers are facing construction delays of more than 18 months and additional costs of up to £49,000 per week due to safety regulations such as the Building Safety Act (BSA), according to new data from the Purposeful Finance Commission (PFC). A report published today by the PFC highlights how the BSA has unintentionally caused significant setbacks in the construction sector. The independent body, which brings together public and private sector organisations, warns that the stringent regulatory process is creating major barriers to housing and infrastructure development. The report, Breaking the Cycle: Unlocking Infrastructure Investment, reveals that developers are waiting over 18 months for approvals from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) before they can even begin construction. These delays stem primarily from the three-stage ‘gateway’ process that high-risk projects must navigate to secure planning consent, construction approval, and ultimately, occupancy. Since the introduction of Gateway 2 in October 2023, the number of build-to-rent (BTR) homes reaching the detailed planning application stage has dropped by 41%, falling to just 17,315 between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The PFC argues that these regulatory delays are making many schemes financially unviable, with one developer reportedly losing up to £49,000 per week due to prolonged waiting times at Gateway 2. In December alone, the BSR received 1,502 planning applications for high-risk buildings, yet nearly half remain undecided. Of those reviewed, more than 70% have been either rejected or deemed invalid. Meanwhile, construction starts on over 800 high-rise residential projects have been delayed, with Gateway 2 approvals now taking an average of 22 weeks—almost double the original 12-week target. Tracy Blackwell, chief executive of the Pension Insurance Corporation and chair of the PFC, acknowledged the importance of regulatory oversight but criticised the lack of resources that is slowing progress. She said: “Regulators play a critical role, particularly in ensuring resident safety, but there is no excuse for them to be under-resourced and effectively stalling vital infrastructure and housing projects. The regulatory burden is strangling growth, and I’m delighted the PFC is focused on how regulation can better align with the government’s growth mission and drive investment into the economy.” The report also found that nearly half (49%) of local authorities in England have reduced spending on planning, with overall planning department budgets increasing by just 3.85% per capita between 2018 and 2022. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A recently completed build-to-rent scheme located in the heart of Glasgow has been refinanced following a £14.4m loan from Secure Trust Bank (STB) Real Estate Finance. The three-year residential property investment loan has been provided to Maven Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm. It was used to refinance an external development facility at Dalian, a former office building converted into 92 apartments. Just a mile away from Glasgow Central train station, the development is conveniently located in Scotland’s most populated city. Completing in late December, only six weeks on from credit approval, this is the bank’s second deal with Maven Capital Partners, having funded the development of a 159-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Stirling in 2020. The deal was led by Daniel Thornton, Relationship Director at STB Real Estate Finance, with the support of Joe Hora, Relationship Support Manager. Paul Johnston, Partner at Maven Capital Partners, said: “Following completion of Dalian in late 2024 we are delighted that the property has let extremely well, and that STB was able to complete the refinance so quickly. We look forward to working together over the next three years.” Daniel said: “It was a pleasure to work with Maven Capital Partners on this transaction. Over the past six years, STB has been able to build a strong working relationship with Maven that is mutually beneficial to both parties. “With the deal occurring during what was certainly a busy end to the year, a quick turnaround was simply non-negotiable. This was made possible thanks to the hard work of our experienced property finance professionals alongside a constant dialogue with Paul and his team.” With 10 regional offices located across the country, Maven Capital Partners has invested over £920m in UK businesses since 2009. Acting on behalf of the bank for this property loan was solicitors Addleshaw Goddard. Discover more about Secure Trust Bank Real Estate Finance or its dedicated residential property investment landing page. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A local Priors Hall Park School student is over the moon following an ‘out of this world’ gift from a housebuilder. Last year, 9-year-old pupil Jasper won a competition to design a bedroom, held by housebuilder Davidsons Homes for its stunning showhome at Kirby Woodlands. As part of his prize, Jasper’s bedroom design was replicated in one of the showhome bedrooms – a room that Jasper was excited to visit and explore for himself. Following a surge of sales including the showhome itself, Davidsons Homes decided to gift all the furniture from the space-themed bedroom to Jasper. The treat was carefully planned between the housebuilder and Jasper’s mum, Annabelle, giving the youngster a surprise that rendered him speechless on the day. Simon Tyler, Sales Director for Davidsons South, said: “Gifting the furniture to Jasper from the bedroom he designed feels like the perfect ending to this lovely story. Originally, we tasked students from Priors Hall Park School to design a bedroom for our new showhome, and we were absolutely blown away by the results. From models made of the room, through to stories that accompanied entries, we have genuinely never seen such high-quality entries from children. “Jasper’s design won our hearts though, with so many carefully-considered details – a galaxy-themed ceiling, Doctor Who and Star Wars elements and a slide reaching from the bed, surely every child’s dream. “Now, we’re delighted that following the sale of the showhome, we are able to gift all the furniture from this bedroom to Jasper. We very much hope he enjoys his revamped bedroom and that it’s a little reminder to him of this project, which has certainly been one we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed here at Davidsons Homes.” As part of his prize, Jasper also won a £500 Merlin voucher for him and his family to enjoy. Not only that, but Jasper was the first to visit the showhome and see the bedroom, before it was open to other visitors. Jasper’s mum, Annabelle, said: “Jasper has been so excited about his bedroom design being chosen, in fact he even took his grandparents to visit it over Christmas last year. Now, it’s the icing on the cake that we have been given the furniture from the bedroom for Jasper to take home and enjoy. “It was wonderful to visit the showhome again with Jasper, along with his sisters, and see him receive the news that he is able to take the furniture home with him. We really cannot thank you all enough.” People are invited to visit Kirby Woodlands for themselves. To make an appointment or to find out more, visit davidsonshomes.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Digital Shift in Health and Safety As we move into 2025, the construction and real estate industries in the UK are embracing digital transformation at an unprecedented pace. With stricter regulations, evolving safety standards, and greater accountability, construction companies are turning to digital tools to enhance compliance, improve worker safety, and minimise risks on construction sites and property developments. The days of relying solely on paper-based risk assessments, manual safety inspections, and outdated reporting systems are fading. Today, digital technologies such as mobile applications, real-time monitoring systems, and AI-powered analytics are transforming how companies approach health and safety compliance. These tools are not only ensuring better adherence to safety regulations but also streamlining construction processes, reducing human error, and ultimately leading to safer workplaces. Why Health and Safety Compliance Matters More Than Ever In the UK, health and safety laws governing construction and real estate are some of the strictest in the world. Regulations like the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 set clear standards for compliance. Failure to meet these requirements can result in severe consequences, from hefty fines and project delays to reputational damage and, in the worst cases, fatalities. Despite these regulations, many construction firms still struggle with compliance due to inefficient processes and outdated methods. Manual safety inspections, lack of real-time monitoring, and inconsistent risk assessments contribute to gaps in safety procedures. This is where digital tools come in, providing a modern and efficient approach to managing compliance and keeping construction workers safe. How Digital Tools Are Transforming Health and Safety Real-Time Incident Reporting and Management One of the biggest advancements in construction site safety is the ability to report incidents in real-time. Mobile apps designed for health and safety inspections, such as a health and safety inspection app, allow workers to instantly report hazards, document incidents with photos and videos, and notify project managers within seconds. This rapid response system ensures that issues are addressed immediately, reducing the risk of further accidents. One of the biggest advancements in construction site safety is the ability to report incidents in real-time. Mobile apps designed for health and safety inspections allow workers to instantly report hazards, document incidents with photos and videos, and notify project managers within seconds. This rapid response system ensures that issues are addressed immediately, reducing the risk of further accidents. These digital solutions also eliminate the delays often associated with traditional incident reporting, where paperwork needs to be manually processed. Instead, everything is logged digitally, making it easier for safety officers to track compliance and ensure necessary actions are taken. Digital Risk Assessments and Safety Audits Risk assessments are a fundamental part of health and safety compliance, but when done manually, they can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Digital risk assessment tools streamline this process by automating checklists, standardising safety audits, and ensuring no critical steps are overlooked. AI-powered analytics take this a step further by identifying potential hazards before they escalate into serious incidents. These tools analyse historical project data, assess risks in real-time, and provide recommendations to prevent accidents. Machine learning algorithms improve accuracy, offering valuable insights that enhance safety practices. Wearable Technology and IoT for Safety Management The rise of wearable technology and IoT (Internet of Things) solutions is further enhancing workplace safety. Smart helmets, vests, and wristbands equipped with sensors can monitor workers’ health, detecting fatigue, heat stress, and other potential risks. These devices can send automatic alerts to site managers, allowing for immediate intervention before an incident occurs. IoT-enabled construction sites are also becoming more common, with sensors monitoring environmental hazards such as gas leaks, structural weaknesses, and real-time hazard detection. These innovations provide a proactive approach to safety, reducing the likelihood of accidents before they happen. Health and Safety Compliance in Real Estate Management While construction sites are high-risk environments, health and safety compliance is equally crucial in real estate management. Landlords, property managers, and developers are using digital tools to monitor safety regulations, ensure building compliance, and streamline maintenance. Smart Property Management and Compliance Tracking Cloud-based property management platforms are revolutionising how landlords and property managers track compliance with fire safety, electrical standards, and structural integrity regulations. Digital tools provide automated reminders for inspections, store compliance records securely, and enable real-time monitoring of safety conditions. For example, fire risk assessments can now be conducted digitally, with AI-powered systems analysing potential hazards and generating safety recommendations. This approach not only ensures compliance with the latest safety standards but also reduces the risk of costly legal issues. Remote Safety Inspections and Predictive Maintenance The ability to conduct remote inspections is another game-changer in health and safety compliance. Drones are now being used to survey buildings, assess structural conditions, and inspect hard-to-reach areas, eliminating the need for risky manual inspections. Meanwhile, AI-driven predictive maintenance systems analyse project data to detect early signs of wear and tear, allowing for proactive repairs before they become safety hazards. This shift towards digital inspections is making real estate management more efficient, reducing costs while ensuring properties remain compliant with UK regulations. The Benefits of Digital Health and Safety Tools Increased Efficiency and Cost Savings One of the most immediate benefits of adopting digital safety tools is the significant increase in operational efficiency. Automated compliance tracking reduces the administrative burden on safety officers, allowing them to focus on proactive measures rather than paperwork. This, in turn, leads to cost savings by preventing workplace incidents, minimising legal risks, and reducing downtime due to safety violations. Improved Worker Safety and Reduced Incidents By providing real-time data on safety conditions, digital tools empower workers to take proactive measures to protect themselves. Wearable technology, mobile safety apps, and IoT sensors all contribute to a safer work environment, reducing the number of workplace injuries and fatalities. Greater Transparency and Regulatory Compliance Digital records ensure greater transparency and accountability in safety management. Compliance audits become easier when all safety documentation is stored in a centralised system, accessible
As we move through 2025, the construction and real estate industries are experiencing a transformative shift driven by digital innovation. The demand for efficiency, seamless communication, and real-time project tracking has never been higher. With the growing complexity of construction projects and real estate developments, professionals are turning to mobile technology to enhance productivity and ensure project success. In recent years, mobile apps have evolved from simple communication tools to comprehensive project management solutions, integrating artificial intelligence, real-time data access, and automation. These advancements are streamlining workflows, optimising resource allocation, and improving collaboration between stakeholders. With the construction industry continuing to embrace digital transformation, mobile applications are becoming indispensable tools for project managers, real estate developers, and construction professionals alike. This article explores how mobile apps are revolutionising construction project management and real estate development by improving efficiency, reducing risks, and enhancing communication. We will also discuss emerging trends in mobile technology and how they will shape the future of these industries. The Growing Need for Digital Solutions in Construction and Real Estate Challenges of Traditional Methods Construction and real estate development projects involve multiple stakeholders, including project managers, architects, engineers, contractors, real estate developers, property managers, and investors. The traditional reliance on paper-based documentation, spreadsheets, and manual coordination leads to inefficiencies such as: The Digital Shift With mobile apps, project stakeholders in construction and real estate industry can now have instant access to project-related information, seamless integration of processes, and real-time project tracking. These apps serve as a centralized platform for planning, collaboration, and execution, reducing inefficiencies and increasing project success rates. How Mobile Apps are Transforming Construction Project Management 1. Real-Time Communication and Collaboration Mobile apps facilitate instant communication between project managers, construction teams, and stakeholders. Project management software such as Procore, PlanGrid, and Slack ensures efficient communication and seamless integration for project execution. Benefits: 2. Task and Workflow Automation Construction mobile apps help automate scheduling, task assignments, and project tracking. Fieldwire and Buildertrend enable managers to assign tasks, track progress, and ensure accountability while minimizing delays in construction projects. Benefits: 3. Document and Data Management Apps such as Autodesk BIM 360 and PlanGrid allow seamless documentation and blueprint management. Digital documentation enhances project lifecycle management and reduces the risk of losing sensitive project information. Benefits: 4. On-Site Monitoring and Safety Compliance Mobile apps help ensure safety concerns on construction sites by enabling workers to report incidents, complete safety checklists, and track compliance in real-time. SafetyCulture (iAuditor), Velappity and SiteDocs provide digital safety inspection tools to access safety guidelines. Additionally, using a health and safety inspection app can streamline compliance checks, ensuring that all safety regulations are met efficiently. Mobile apps help ensure safety concerns on construction sites by enabling workers to report incidents, complete safety checklists, and track compliance in real-time. SafetyCulture (iAuditor) and SiteDocs provide digital safety inspection tools to access safety guidelines. Benefits: 5. Cost and Budget Tracking Understanding the IOS and Android app development cost is essential for construction firms and real estate developers looking to build customised mobile solutions. Investing in tailored mobile applications can improve efficiency, enhance communication, and streamline budget tracking for various projects. Apps such as CoConstruct and QuickBooks integrate financial tracking into project management practices, ensuring project costs stay within budget while optimising resource allocation. Benefits: The Role of Mobile Apps in Real Estate Development 1. Market Research and Data Analytics Real estate developers use mobile apps like Zillow, Redfin, and REalyse to analyze real estate market trends, property values, and demographic insights. Benefits: 2. Customer Engagement and Sales Management Real estate professionals use HubSpot CRM, Salesforce, and Zoho CRM to manage leads, automate follow-ups, and streamline customer relationship management processes. Benefits: 3. Property Inspections and Maintenance Management Apps such as Buildium and Propertyware help real estate developers and property managers conduct digital inspections, track maintenance requests, and manage tenant relationships. Benefits: 4. Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) in Real Estate Mobile apps leveraging Matterport and RoOomy provide VR/AR features for 3D virtual tours and explore properties remotely, enhancing buyer experiences. Benefits: Future Trends: What’s Next for Mobile Apps in Construction and Real Estate? 1. AI and Machine Learning Integration AI-driven analytics will enhance predictive modeling for risk assessment and customer insights, improving decision-making in real estate sector and construction business. 2. Blockchain for Smart Contracts and Transactions Blockchain technology will enable secure and transparent real estate transactions through smart contracts, reducing fraud risks and ensuring better project outcomes. 3. 5G and IoT for Connected Construction Sites 5G connectivity will enhance real-time project tracking, while IoT-enabled sensors will improve remote site monitoring, project performance, and predictive maintenance. 4. Sustainable and Green Tech in Real Estate Development Mobile apps will play a key role in monitoring energy efficiency, operational excellence, and carbon footprint reduction, promoting sustainable construction practices. Conclusion Mobile apps have transformed project management practices in construction and real estate industry by increasing efficiency, improving communication, and reducing project risks. As the construction industry continues to evolve, integrating mobile app development, AI, blockchain, and IoT will further enhance efficiency, paving the way for a smarter and more sustainable industry. For construction firms and real estate developers, embracing digital solutions is no longer optional but essential for effectively managing project success and achieving long-term business growth.
Online casino and sports book gambling might be grabbing the headlines these days, but there has also been a surge in takings across the land-based sector. Many people feared that the pandemic would drive people to gamble online and that they would make the internet their venue of choice. However, despite the virtual scene continuing to grow apace, land-based operators have also seen an uptick in business. Takings are back to pre-pandemic levels despite there being fewer physical venues around. The total number of betting premises continues to fall, but there are areas of real growth – the biggest of which being non-remote arcades. Gross Gambling Revenue for adult gaming and family entertainment centres is a third higher than before the pandemic, and developers are reacting to market trends. In addition, many people are looking for a great night out when they are socialising, and destination casinos offer people a wide range of possibilities. Rather than just going out for a drink, a meal, or to see a show, many venues now offer people all of that and the chance to play casino and slot games to boot. It seems that there are opportunities for both online and offline casinos and betting venues. While gamblers love the convenience and excitement of mobile gameplay and are keen to cash in on free spin bonuses, they also want to get their glad rags on and spend a fun night out on the town. The chance of being able to come home quids in makes a trip to the casino an alluring option. The most obvious difference between an online casino and a land-based one is that in the latter, you can see and touch everything from the gaming machines to the furniture, from the décor to the plumbing. A fantastic land-based venue is so much greater than the sum of its parts and delivers a full sensory experience. From the glamour of Monte Carlo with its fine art and baroque features to the audacious design of the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore with its 340-meter high SkyPark, 150-meter infinity pool, and luxury shopping centre, spectacular casinos attract the very best clientele. However, it is not all about stunning architecture, and many fabulous casinos are much more modest in styling but still incredibly successful. Casino operators are cashing in, and new and successful venues are opening across the country. Here are some golden rules to follow to design and build a successful casino business. Location, location, location Location, Location, Location might be a popular TV property program, but the phrase is as apt for a business as it is for someone searching for their forever home. A casino needs to be visible to potential customers and easily accessible. A key factor is the amount of foot traffic an area gets, and a busy area of the town or city will get more passing trade. If you choose to build in a rural or far-flung location, you might save money on the purchase price and business rates but will have to increase the spending on advertising and promotion. Do not forget to check with the authorities to see if you can operate a casino in your chosen location and apply for the correct licenses. Design for success Casino design needs to be appealing and functional – a wow factor is certainly a plus, but this has to be weighed up against budget. The layout must be easy enough for people to find their way around, but some mystery and mystique can also add a certain allure. The choice of colours and interesting lighting can help your venue stand out from the crowd. There are specialist casino design companies out there, like I-5 Design Build, that have experience in designing environments to attract customers and create unique selling points. Their website is certainly worth a peruse. What to play Ultimately, what sets a casino apart from other venues in the nighttime economy is the chance for customers to gamble and play a wide selection of games. You need to think about the gaming environment and what kinds of titles will be on offer. Will the casino specialise in classic table games like blackjack and roulette or will it be offering new innovative games? Perhaps it will be a blend of both. The important thing is to ensure there are adequate gaming tables and machines to allow as many customers to play as possible. Other entertainment options While the gaming facilities are key, you need to design in other amenities to keep customers happy and stop them wandering off elsewhere for food and drink. The aim is to make your casino the go-to destination so they do not spend their entertainment pounds elsewhere. A successful casino should have a mix of casual and fine dining options to meet the clientele’s mood and maybe a cocktail bar and nightclub to give an all-around experience. Consider a pool, fitness centre or spa to encourage people to unwind and relax. Keeping up with technology Up-to-the-minute technology will let you offer your guests an unforgettable and immersive experience. You will find some fantastic virtual reality, augmented reality and artificial intelligence technology on the market to transport your guests’ entertainment to another level. You might be building a land-based casino business, but that does not mean that your guests have to keep their feet on the ground. Some of the best tech on the market blurs the lines between reality and imagination and provides unforgettable interactive entertainment. Guest could, for example, feature in their own gameshow or gamble in an alternative universe while being firmly located in your venue. Keeping the venue and customers safe and secure Casino heists are a popular narrative for Hollywood movies because casinos are attractive targets for would-be robbers. Not only do they often hold valuable works of art and are filled with decadent fixtures, but they are also full of money. While digital banking has gone a long way to remove the cash
