Nigel Goodwin — May 28, 2006 — Pop Culture
References: money.cnn
At least one movie theatre owner -- or exhibitor, as they're known -- is trying to lure consumers back to the big screen with a luxury cinema.
In 1946, the average American went to the movies 28 times per year; the number has since fallen to less than five times per year. There is simply too much competition from high-end home theatres, early DVD releases, pirated copies and other forms of entertainment.
National Amusements is fighting back and differentiating itself with a 14-screen Cinema De Lux (CDL) which goes far beyond the suburban megaplexes we've already seen. With a martini bar and grand piano gracing its lobby, the CDL is the five-star venue of the theatre industry. The CDL also features a Ben & Jerry's and a Starbucks. There's a lounge with comfortable couches, newspapers and magazines, and a concierge who assists in purchasing tickets and calling taxis.
As for the theatres themselves, two of them actually feature luxury leather recliners and escorted seating service. Alcohol may eventually be served in the theatres.
In 1946, the average American went to the movies 28 times per year; the number has since fallen to less than five times per year. There is simply too much competition from high-end home theatres, early DVD releases, pirated copies and other forms of entertainment.
National Amusements is fighting back and differentiating itself with a 14-screen Cinema De Lux (CDL) which goes far beyond the suburban megaplexes we've already seen. With a martini bar and grand piano gracing its lobby, the CDL is the five-star venue of the theatre industry. The CDL also features a Ben & Jerry's and a Starbucks. There's a lounge with comfortable couches, newspapers and magazines, and a concierge who assists in purchasing tickets and calling taxis.
As for the theatres themselves, two of them actually feature luxury leather recliners and escorted seating service. Alcohol may eventually be served in the theatres.
Trend Themes
1. Luxury Cinema - Opportunity for theatre owners to create a luxurious experience by including amenities such as lounges, concierges, tailored seating, and high-end food and drink options.
2. Escorted Seating Service - Incumbent exhibitors can differentiate themselves by offering seating with attendant services allowing customers to fully enjoy the movie experience.
3. In-theatre Dining - Food and drink service within cinema environment is an opportunity for theatre owners to offer unique, high end experiences while watching movies on their big screens.
Industry Implications
1. Cinema Industry - Innovation opportunities for cinema exhibiters, distributors and marketers to cater to changing consumer behavior to luxury cinema spaces.
2. Food and Beverage Industry - Opportunities for collaborating with cinemas to upscale concessions, offering high-end food and drink services to cinema-goers.
3. Hospitality - Theatre exhibitors can look to collaborations with hospitality industry to enhance luxury cinema experiences through amenities and attendant services.
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