Cineplex is coming back, and they're looking to be bigger and better than ever.
Following a failed transaction from Cineworld, Cineplex will continue to operate the business. This morning, they announced their official reopening plans for theatres during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to a release, during the three months theatres have been closed because of the virus, Cineplex has worked diligently to prepare for a safe reopening for staff and guests. Industry-leading programs and health protocols have been put in place to ensure no one will spread COVID-19.
With provincial governments beginning to loosen restrictions on social gatherings, Cineplex will resume operations at its locations of the Rec Room this week in Winnipeg, Calagary, and Edmonton. They will also work towards opening six theatres in Alberta on June 26. At this point, they have not specified when theatres in BC will begin to open.
"At Cineplex’s theatres specifically, it will also be launching reserved seating in all auditoriums across the country to ensure proper physical distancing between its guests," wrote Cineplex.
"In all markets where Cineplex is permitted by government and health authorities, it plans to reopen as many of its locations as it can on July 3, 2020."
To mitigate the negative impact COVID-19 has had on the company financially, Cineplex has had to put in temporary layoffs of part and full-time workers, reduce salaries, suspend capital spending, reduce operational expenditures, proactively negotiate with landlords for rent relief, and much more.
Cineplex expects a prolonged negative impact on theatres as long as the virus is still present. They are optimistic that they will recover over time as a demand for theatrical experiences builds up.
For more on the announcement, click here.
