Lights! Camera! Losing traction! Revenue growth for movie theaters has slowed in 2023 and 2024 as labor strikes reduced the movie pipeline to a trickle, giving the public fewer options. Moreover, high inflation has had consumers second-guessing paying the ever-increasing prices at the theater. While inflation is righting itself and movie production will pick up again, theaters are still left with the task of providing a more vibrant experience.
On the upside, moviegoers don’t see themselves reducing their attendance, but there are ways exhibitors can make a trip to the cinema more appealing. Generally, moviegoers, especially frequent ones, are looking for a more premium experience, whether in the form of premium large formats, more comfortable seating or more upscale concessions. They also want to feel part of something special, such as by attending a special screening, a broadcast of a live event or a unique experience like playing in a video game tournament on the big screen.
Looking ahead, theaters need to think about their place in the out-of-home leisure landscape. They’re already considered a central part of going out, and certain segments are ready for movie houses to take that literally – by being the access point to other entertainment establishments. Luckily, theaters have examples that serve as a jumping-off point.
In a world where theaters can’t rely on only box office revenue, they must rally their biggest fans while expanding further into the out-of-home leisure market.
Mike Gallinari, Senior Travel & Leisure Analyst
For the purposes of this Report, Mintel defines a “moviegoer” as an adult aged 18+ who has visited a movie theater in the previous 12 months or intends to go in the next 12 months.
This Report concentrates on commercial cinema venues. Festivals, army bases, museums, libraries, prisons, airlines, restaurants, cafes, and other venues that license films for profit are not included; only sites whose primary day-to-day function is the commercial display of cinema are considered.
Companies that own, lease, manage, or operate facilities for the day-to-day commercial display of films are the subject of this Report, and are referred to as “movie theaters.”
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