What Are Competitive Entertainment Machines?
What exactly are competitive entertainment machines — and why are they appearing in pubs and venues all over the UK?
In simple terms, competitive entertainment refers to interactive games that get people playing together in a social setting. From shuffleboards and interactive darts to pool tables, quiz machines, and arcade games, these machines transform ordinary nights into lively, high-energy experiences that keep customers coming back.
They don’t just entertain — they boost dwell time, encourage group bookings, and increase bar spend. In today’s “competitive socialising” era, they’re one of the smartest investments a venue can make.
Why Rent Instead of Buy?
Many pub owners now rent their entertainment machines rather than buy them outright — and for good reason.
Here’s why rental and profit-share models make financial sense:
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No big upfront cost — start earning from day one.
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Maintenance included — your supplier keeps the machines running.
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Flexibility — try different games without long-term commitment.
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Shared success — with profit-share, you both benefit from busy nights.
Diamond Leisure offers both weekly rental and revenue-share options, meaning you can scale your entertainment without the risk.
Top Rental Machines for Pubs and Venues
Shuffleboards
Shuffleboard tables have become the centerpiece of modern social venues. They’re easy to play, fun to watch, and ideal for groups.
Venues often charge by the hour, making shuffleboards a steady earner that drives food and drink sales at the same time. Diamond Leisure supplies commercial-grade shuffleboards with professional installation and ongoing maintenance.
Fido Interactive Darts
Fido interactive darts combine traditional pub darts with modern tech. Players use digital scoring, touchscreen menus, and even mobile apps to compete locally or online.
The result? More energy, more laughter, and more repeat customers.
These systems turn ordinary dartboards into social hubs — perfect for league nights, birthday parties, and corporate bookings.
Pool Tables
A timeless pub classic. Whether coin-operated or free-play, pool tables remain one of the most consistent revenue drivers in any venue.
Diamond Leisure supplies tournament-standard tables in a variety of styles, with cloth colours and branding options to match your venue’s aesthetic.
Arcade & Skill Machines
From air hockey and boxing machines to racing games and cranes, arcade machines appeal to all ages. They create movement and atmosphere — and when positioned strategically, they keep customers circulating around the venue.
These machines are ideal for larger pubs, family-friendly venues, and entertainment complexes looking to stand out.
Digital Jukeboxes & Quiz Machines
Digital jukeboxes and quiz machines keep the atmosphere buzzing between games. They’re compact, easy to manage, and great for adding variety to your entertainment lineup.
Many venues use them to run weekly quiz nights or “beat the jukebox” competitions that drive mid-week footfall.
Rental Models Explained
When you work with a professional supplier, you can usually choose between three core rental models:
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Weekly Rental – Fixed weekly cost; predictable and easy to budget.
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Profit-Share – The supplier installs equipment for free and takes a percentage of the takings.
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Hybrid Model – A small weekly fee combined with a lower revenue share.
Choosing the right option depends on your venue size, audience, and cash flow. Many pubs start on profit-share to test demand before moving to a fixed-rent setup.
How to Choose the Right Machine for Your Venue
Before signing a rental agreement, run through this quick checklist:
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Space & layout – Ensure clear walkways and enough room for groups to gather.
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Customer base – What type of games will your regulars actually play?
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Revenue goals – Estimate expected takings per week and per square foot.
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Maintenance & support – Check the supplier’s response times for breakdowns.
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Promotion plan – Plan launch nights, league events, and social media posts.
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Compliance – If you’re installing fruit or gaming machines, confirm licensing rules.
A well-chosen machine will become the heartbeat of your venue.
How Competitive Entertainment Boosts Pub Profits
Here’s why more landlords are embracing this new wave of entertainment:
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Increased dwell time – Players stay longer, buy more, and invite friends.
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Group appeal – Games attract teams, couples, and parties.
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Social media buzz – Customers share videos and photos online.
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Event potential – Leagues, tournaments, and themed nights drive footfall.
It’s a formula proven to increase average spend per head and create a more vibrant atmosphere.
5 Quick Ways to Promote Your New Entertainment Machines
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Host weekly tournaments with prizes or free drinks for winners.
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Offer a “First Game Free” voucher for new customers.
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Bundle promotions — “Burger, Pint & Play” nights.
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Run themed events like couples’ darts or team-shuffleboard nights.
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Share leaderboards and live scores on social media.
A little creative marketing turns your entertainment machines into powerful community-building tools.
The Bottom Line
Competitive entertainment isn’t a passing trend — it’s the future of pub leisure.
By renting machines such as shuffleboards, Fido interactive darts, pool tables, arcade cabinets, and quiz machines, venues can transform quiet nights into social hotspots that keep customers returning week after week.
Whether you’re a traditional pub, sports bar, or modern entertainment venue, Diamond Leisure makes it easy to add excitement, boost revenue, and stay ahead of the competition.
Ready to transform your venue?
Contact Diamond Leisure today to arrange a free site visit and discover the best rental setup for your space.