Bingo as US giant arrows in on UK gaming markets

Cowells Arrow Bingo Company, an Ipswich-anchored subsidiary of Ohio-based Arrow International Inc, has bought Automated Machine Services to enter the UK gaming machine market. No figures have been disclosed for the deal.
Arrow International is the world’s largest manufacturer and distributor of charitable gaming products.
Kent-based AMS is a leading distributor of gaming and leisure equipment to the working men’s club, pub, restaurant and hospitality markets in the South East.
Arrow International will work with Cowells Arrow and AMS teams to explore expanding existing US electronic gaming products into the UK market.
Cowells Arrow and AMS have enjoyed a commercial relationship through the supply of bingo tickets, dabbers, lottery tickets and vending machines since 2017. Tony Lister, managing director of Cowells Arrow, has maintained regular dialogue with AMS MD Jason Jarrett throughout.
Arrow acquired AMS from Jason Jarrett, who will remain with the company going forward and join Cowells Arrow.
Arrow continues to explore opportunities to grow its business and to acquire other suppliers and distributors in the UK and North America.
Tony Lister said: “We are thrilled to welcome AMS into the Arrow organisation. The company’s excellent market position and tenured customer relationships align well with our acquisitive growth strategy.
“We look forward to working with our newest partner while offering the resources of Cowells Arrow and the broader Arrow group to drive exciting developments.”
Founded in 1967, Arrow is headquartered in Cleveland and has around 1,200 employees across four manufacturing facilities and a network of 60+ distribution facilities.
AMS – based in Kemsing – was established in 1960 and supplies pubs, clubs and licensed premises throughout South East England with a range of gaming, amusement and ancillary machines.