Cineworld has confirmed it plans to reopen in May when lockdown restrictions are eased.
In total, all 127 branches across the UK are set to open their doors once again, when stage three of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown is implemented – which will be May 17th at the earliest.
When they reopen, the cinemas will operate with strict Covid measures in place, which will include social distancing, staggered start times and reduced ticketing so there’s less people.
And to entice people back to the cinema, the chain – which operates 127 UK cinemas under the Cineworld and Picturehouse brands – has struck an exclusive Warner Bros deal to show films at its sites.
Once open, Cineworld will be able to show new Warner Bros films 31 days ahead of streaming services, which also includes an extension of up to 45 days if a box office target is hit.
Chief executive Mooky Greidinger said: “With the health and safety of our customers, staff, and communities as our top priority, we continue to take all the necessary precautions and abide by our CinemaSafe guidelines to confidently provide a safe and comfortable experience.”
Out of Cineworld’s 5,500 UK staff, 5,000 have been furloughed since October last year, with the chain also closing its doors in the same month.
It was reported last year that the company was ‘on the brink’ with shares dropping by 2.5%, and Cineworld losing £1.3billion globally due to the pandemic.
Are you excited for the return of cinemas?
