Search by product, support information & more
Most popular searches:
Read our Latest Blogs >Click here for Technical Support >
See Which Events We're Attending
Please note the website login function is temporarily under maintenance. We apologise for any inconvenience.
|
At Hollywood Bowl in Manchester, maintaining a safe, responsible environment for guests of all ages is a top priority, especially in age-restricted gaming areas. Alongside ten-pin bowling, Hollywood Bowl also offers arcade amusements, a licensed bar and 18+ gaming machines. This means that staff face the unique challenge of balancing fun with regulatory compliance.
A key area of concern was ensuring only eligible customers accessed over 18 gaming machines. Relying solely on manual ID checks introduced room for human error, inconsistency, and uncomfortable staff-customer interactions. As legislation continues to evolve around safer gambling and minor protection, Hollywood Bowl needed a robust, automated solution to:
Hollywood Bowl introduced ICU Lite, an on-machine age verification solution from Innovative Technology, at its Manchester venue.Â
The implementation of ICU Lite provided an instant safeguard: every customer must now pass a quick and anonymous age check before gameplay can begin. The technology instantly estimates age, denying access to under 18s and prompting further verification for those appearing under 25. Â
MyCheckr was also implemented to strengthen age verification procedures. Using the same GDPR-compliant biometric technology, it accurately estimates age to control access to restricted gaming zones. The system provides staff with a clear visual prompt by displaying a red light when a customer appears under 25, prompting them to carry out a manual ID check in line with Challenge 25 policies.
See for yourself how ICU Lite and MyCheckr are optimising operations at Hollywood Bowl.
Seamless Age Verification
ICU Lite provides real-time, GDPR-assured age estimation, meaning no data is stored, and there is less potential for customer friction. The system blocks access to gaming machines unless the customer passes the age check, giving staff and management confidence in compliance.
Improved Staff Support Â
With a clear red/green visual indicator on the MyCheckr, staff know when an ID check is required, reducing uncertainty and potential conflict. For areas such as the over-18 gaming zone, MyCheckr can be installed at the entrance to automate access control, so there is no need for staff to intervene unless prompted.
Better Customer Experience
Guests of all ages now enjoy a safer, smoother visit. Those over challenge 25 age can play immediately upon verification, whilst underage visitors are automatically restricted, avoiding awkward staff interactions. The technology contributes to a responsible environment without disrupting the fun.
Smart Advertising Capabilities Â
Beyond compliance, MyCheckr enables targeted, age-appropriate digital advertising. Screens can display tailored content based on age groups and/or gender, ensuring all promotions are suitable and relevant. Under 25s, for example, are only shown age-compliant and responsible ads.
Since rolling out on-machine age verification on all 18+ gaming machines across its venues, Hollywood Bowl has strengthened its commitment to responsible entertainment. The automated system prevents underage play, supports staff, and reassures parents and regulators alike. Â
Hollywood Bowl continues to lead the way in combining entertainment with accountability, proving that safety, technology, and fun can go hand in hand.
Want to create a safer, smarter customer experience? Â
Talk to our team today to see how ICU Lite and MyCheckr can work for your venue.