open air cinema business plan

The World of Outdoor Movies and Drive-In-Cinema

Inflatable movie screens for open-air cinema and drive-in cinema.

Start your own open-air cinema business

Be the director of a pop-up cinema rental company..

If you are thinking about starting your own business: How about starting an outdoor movie company?

You like to travel? Perfect! There are so many opportunities to bring open air cinema to people:

• Establish a theater in rural areas where no cinemas exist anymore
• Movie nights for hotels on the beach or at the pool
• Backyard cinema in beautiful gardens
• Pop-up cinema in unusual places – let environment and movie become one
• Drive-in cinema for nostalgic cinema experience
• Offer an outdoor video game experience on a screen bigger than all of your living room walls
• Start a travelling cinema and bring movies to schools, cities and communities

And there are so many more ideas not created yet, it gives you free rein to your creativity! The best about this: it is pretty easy to install our plug and play products. AIRSCREEN complete outdoor cinema systems are starting at affordable 5,290 EUR. An inflatable movie screen, full HD projector and a professional sound system – all you need is included.

To help you grow your mobile cinema business you will also gain leads from us. It’s a proven business model and it successfully works in many countries worldwide.

There is no experience necessary to go ahead. Get started and join the AIRSCREEN family – use our knowledge, support and marketing material. Learn from our partners worldwide how to organize, promote and establish your own event company.

Contact us today, fill in the contact form on airscreen.com and you’ll soon be running your own event production company.

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Start Your Outdoor Cinema Business in 9 Simple Steps

By henry sheykin, resources on outdoor cinema.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan

As the demand for unique entertainment experiences continues to rise, the outdoor cinema industry has seen remarkable growth, with a projected increase in revenue by up to 10% annually over the next five years. This surge presents a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to start an outdoor cinema business . In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide a step-by-step checklist on how to launch a successful outdoor movie theater, covering everything from securing licenses and choosing the right equipment to marketing strategies and venue partnerships.

• Develop business model.
• Secure funding.
• Ensure legal compliance.
• Establish venue partnerships.
• Schedule events.
• Formulate marketing strategy.
• Set up technology.
• Coordinate catering.
• Implement feedback loop.

9-Steps To Start a Business

Before diving into the specifics of how to start an outdoor cinema business, it's crucial to ensure that you understand the preparatory steps. These include conducting market research, defining your business model, securing funds, and ensuring compliance with legal standards. Following these steps methodically can set a solid foundation for your business.

Business Model Development

Launching an outdoor cinema business requires a detailed and robust business plan that serves as the foundation for your venture. The primary objective is to define a clear business model that leverages the flexibility and appeal of outdoor screenings. Begin by identifying your target market, which might range from families seeking a night out to cinema enthusiasts interested in unique, thematic experiences.

The unique selling proposition (USP) of your Outdoor Cinema should highlight the exclusivity and atmospheric charm of watching films under the stars, perhaps with added value such as themed nights, local food and beverage partnerships, and premium seating options. Your USP sets you apart from traditional indoor cinemas and competing outdoor events.

Effective marketing strategies are critical. An outdoor cinema marketing strategy should encompass both digital and community-based outreach. Utilize social media platforms to create buzz and engage potential customers through compelling content and interactive campaigns. Email marketing can be used to notify subscribers about upcoming events and offer special promotions.

Detailing the operational structure is also essential. This includes outlining the logistics of event setups, from securing venues to the arrangement of technical equipment and staff management. The outdoor cinema setup guide will serve as a manual for consistency and efficiency in operations.

Projected financials should provide a clear picture of initial investments, recurring costs, and anticipated revenue. This includes the cost of an outdoor cinema equipment checklist , venue rental fees, licensing, and personnel. Also, consider the potential revenue from ticket sales, concessions, and any additional offerings like VIP packages or merchandise.

Key Tips for Business Model Development

• Market Analysis: Conduct thorough research to understand market demand, competitor analysis, and customer preferences specific to your region.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluate potential challenges in the outdoor cinema market, such as weather dependency and seasonal variations, and plan mitigation strategies.
• Scalability: Consider how your business model can adapt and expand. This might include increasing the number of events, expanding to new locations, or incorporating additional services like private rentals or corporate events.

Funding And Budgeting

Launching an outdoor cinema involves significant financial planning. First, secure initial funding sources such as business loans, angel investors, or engaging your audience through crowdfunding platforms. Each option has its unique benefits and prerequisites. For instance, business loans might offer substantial amounts but require detailed business plans and proof of potential profitability. Angel investors can provide both capital and valuable business advice yet often seek equity in return. Crowdfunding, while potentially less restrictive, demands a strong marketing campaign to entice potential backers.

Create a comprehensive budget that encompasses all facets of the outdoor cinema operation. This includes the costs associated with event production such as venue rentals, technical equipment , and film licensing. Marketing expenses are crucial for raising awareness and driving ticket sales, while operational costs cover everything from staffing to day-of-event logistics.

Key Tips for Effective Budgeting in Outdoor Cinema

• Utilize financial software to track expenses and income meticulously, ensuring financial oversight and aiding in future planning.
• Research potential hidden costs like outdoor screening permits and unexpected venue fees to prevent budget overruns.
• Consider phased investment strategies to scale operations based on event success, avoiding substantial initial outlays.

Throughout the financial planning phase, keep a clear record of all expenses and predicted revenue streams. This not only aids in maintaining financial health but also proves crucial when reporting back to investors or reevaluating business strategies. Remember, the key to a successful outdoor cinema business lies not just in generating revenue but also in effective financial management and strategic reinvestment.

Legal Compliance

Establishing a firm legal framework is essential when you venture into the realm of starting an outdoor cinema business. This process involves multiple steps, each crucial to ensure your operation runs smoothly and in accordance with the law.

• Check with your local government about specific outdoor event requirements.
• Ensure compliance with any local zoning laws which might impact venue selection.
• Understand the stipulations attached to each permit and license to ensure ongoing compliance.

Pro Tips: Streamlining Legal Compliance

• Establish a checklist of all required licenses and permits with renewal dates to remain in good standing.
• Consider consulting with a legal expert specializing in entertainment or event planning to navigate complex regulations.
• Build good relationships with local authorities and community leaders to enhance cooperation and support for your events.

Event Insurance: Liability insurance is a safeguard against potential claims that can arise from accidents or incidents at your events. This insurance can cover everything from injuries to property damage caused during a movie screening.

By diligently addressing each aspect of legal compliance, you position your outdoor cinema business not only to avoid potential legal pitfalls but also to build a trustworthy reputation with your audience.

Venue Partnership

Securing the right venue is pivotal for the success of an outdoor cinema. When considering venue partnerships for outdoor cinema , it's essential to assess locations that do not just fulfill the basic need for space but also enhance the overall movie-watching experience. Ideal venues can include sprawling parks, scenic rooftops, or ample community spaces that attract a sizable audience.

Partnerships with local venues benefit both the outdoor cinema and the venue owners through increased exposure and mutual revenue opportunities. In negotiating these partnerships, outdoor cinema events should ensure that the terms allow for flexibility in event scheduling and access to necessary facilities like restrooms and parking.

Key Considerations for Venue Partnerships

• Accessibility and Visibility: Choose locations that are easily accessible by public transportation and visible to passers-by to naturally attract more attendees.
• Technical Suitability: Ensure the venue can support the outdoor cinema setup guide requirements, including power supply needs and optimal space for screen and audience layout.
• Local Regulations: Verify that the venue adheres to all outdoor screening permits and zoning laws to host public film screenings without any legal hitches.

Furthermore, engaging with venues that are popular or hold sentimental value within the community can significantly boost attendance rates. The partnership should also include a clear understanding of profit-sharing models or rental agreements, which must be documented and legally binding. By focusing on strategic venue selection and fostering robust relationships with venue managers, an outdoor cinema can ensure a steady location pipeline, crucial for sustained success.

• When choosing venues, consider the potential for seasonal events which require different amenities or atmospheres, such as open fields for summer screenings or covered areas for rainy seasons.
• Engage in a dialogue with potential venue partners to explore opportunities for cross-promotion and shared marketing efforts, which can amplify the reach of the event and reduce the cost burden on the outdoor cinema.

It is advisable to maintain a portfolio of diverse venue options to cater to different audience preferences and logistical needs, ensuring the outdoor cinema can adapt to varying circumstances and continue providing unique viewing experiences.

Event Scheduling

Strategic planning for your outdoor cinema events is imperative to maximize attendance and ensure seamless operations. When mapping out your calendar, consider the diversity of your potential audience and the climactic conditions that might affect your screenings. A well-thought-out schedule that spans various genres and themes can captivate a wider demographic, from families looking for a summer night out to cinephiles eager to engage with classic cinema under the stars.

Seasonal considerations are vital. Opt for lighter, family-friendly movies during the summer months when your audience is likely to include school children on vacation. Conversely, spring and fall might cater more to adult themes or classic films, with the added allure of comfortable evening temperatures. Winter, although trickier, could still be profitable in milder climates or with the addition of holiday-themed events that draw in festive crowds.

Further, the frequency and timing of events should be tailored to local habits and lifestyles. Weekends might draw larger crowds, but don't overlook the charm and lower competition of a weekday screening, which could attract groups like seniors or stay-at-home parents.

Event Scheduling Tips

• Monitor local event calendars to avoid clashes with large community events that could affect your turnout.
• Consider non-traditional holidays or observances as opportunities for themed screenings that could draw interest from niche groups.
• Use historical weather data for your area to plan around typically rainy seasons or unusually cold snaps.

Remember, while creating an engaging schedule, flexibility is key. Be prepared to make adjustments based on audience feedback and external factors such as unexpected weather changes or overlapping local events. This responsiveness not only helps in mitigating risks but also in building a loyal customer base that feels valued and heard.

To conclude, thorough planning and strategic scheduling will underpin the success of your outdoor cinema, ensuring that each event is well-attended, runs smoothly, and leaves your audience eager for the next screening. By considering a broad spectrum of films and carefully timing your events, you set the stage for a thriving outdoor cinema that becomes a cherished part of the local entertainment landscape.

Marketing Strategy

Developing a robust marketing strategy is crucial for the success of any Outdoor Cinema venture. By leveraging a mix of social media platforms, targeted email marketing campaigns, and strategic local advertising, Outdoor Cinema businesses can captivate a broad audience. The goal is not only to inform about upcoming events but to create a buzz that encourages early ticket purchases and maximizes attendance.

Firstly, utilizing social media effectively allows for real-time engagement with potential attendees. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are perfect for sharing behind-the-scenes content, countdowns to events, and teasers of the featured films. These platforms also offer tools for paid advertising, which can be precisely targeted to reach likely interested demographic groups based on factors such as interests, location, and past engagement with similar events.

Email marketing, when done right, acts as a direct line to those already interested in your offerings. Use this tool to send out event announcements, special promotions, and exclusive updates to your subscribers. Importantly, segment your email lists to tailor messages that resonate with different groups. For instance, send reminders to past attendees about upcoming events and welcome offers to first-time subscribers.

Local advertising should not be underestimated. Effective methods include posting flyers in popular community spots, collaborating with local businesses for cross-promotions, and even local radio shout-outs or newspaper features. These efforts help ground your Outdoor Cinema in the local community culture, which can drive both interest and loyalty.

Marketing Tips to Boost Your Outdoor Cinema's Visibility

• Engage Influencers: Partner with local influencers who can promote your events to their followers. A post or story about your outdoor cinema event can reach potential customers who trust the influencer's recommendations.
• Leverage User-Generated Content: Encourage attendees to share their experience on their social media. Offer incentives like discounts on future tickets for tagging the cinema’s official page and using a specific hashtag.
• Optimize Your Website: Make sure your website is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and optimized for search engines. Include a clear call to action, such as “Buy Tickets Now” or “Subscribe for Updates,” to convert visitors into attendees.

Remember, the effectiveness of your marketing strategy can be significantly enhanced by emphasizing the unique aspects of each event. Whether it's a seasonal theme, exclusive screenings, or the addition of luxury seating options, highlighting these unique selling points can make your events stand out in the crowded entertainment landscape and drive substantial ticket sales.

Technical Setup

For the technical setup of an Outdoor Cinema, selecting the right audio-visual equipment is paramount. This involves acquiring high-quality AV gear that can perform outstandingly in outdoor environments. Among the equipment required are projectors, inflatable or foldable screens, and robust sound systems that together enhance the cinematic experience under the stars. It is essential to choose equipment that not only delivers excellent image and sound quality but also withstands outdoor conditions such as wind, moisture, and varying temperatures.

• The projectors must offer high lumens to ensure that movies can be seen clearly, even in areas with some ambient light.
• Screens should be versatile enough for easy setup and takedown, and be made of material that resists wrinkles and sagging.
• Sound systems need to be powerful enough to provide an immersive audio experience, even in open spaces.

Expert Tips for Optimal AV Performance

• Opt for projectors with a minimum of 3000 lumens for clear visibility in outdoor settings.
• Choose screens with a rear projection option to accommodate different layout plans and increase viewing angles.
• Consider weatherproof enclosures for sensitive equipment to prevent damage from dew or unexpected rainfall.

Ensuring the AV equipment is up to the task not only means technical excellence but also demands regular maintenance and testing before each event. This prevents potential technical failings that could impair the guest experience. Moreover, having backup systems in place, such as extra speakers or a second projector, can safeguard against unexpected equipment failures, maintaining the continuity and quality of your Outdoor Cinema event.

Selecting the right technical equipment is crucial in delivering an unforgettable outdoor movie experience. As you invest in quality components and integrate effective maintenance strategies, your Outdoor Cinema will captivate audiences time and again, securing its place as a standout entertainment choice.

Food And Beverage Coordination

One pivotal aspect of launching an outdoor cinema is the integration of enticing food and beverage options. The alignment of dining solutions with your cinema events can significantly enhance the overall attendee experience, thereby contributing to repeat patronage and positive word-of-mouth. Establishing partnerships with local food vendors or catering services is quintessential, offering a range of dining options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.

Collaborating with local eateries not only supports the community but also alleviates the logistical burden of food preparation. These partnerships may include exclusive deals or seasonal menus that align with the themes of the films being shown. For instance, a classic Italian movie might pair well with a local Italian restaurant, providing thematic cohesion that can greatly enhance the cinematic experience.

Alternatively, setting up in-house food and beverage services could serve as an additional revenue stream for your outdoor cinema . This approach requires more initial investment in equipment and staffing but allows greater control over menu offerings and pricing. Customizable concession stands, featuring classic cinema snacks alongside gourmet options, can cater to a wide audience and adapt to specific event requirements.

Key Tips for Effective Food and Beverage Coordination

• Analyze Your Audience: Tailor your food and beverage selections to the preferences generally exhibited by your attendees. This might mean offering a mix of comfort foods, health-conscious options, or ethnically diverse cuisines, depending on the demographic.
• Seasonal Offerings: Enhance the appeal by incorporating seasonal ingredients and specialty items that can vary from event to event, keeping the menu fresh and exciting.
• Streamlined Operations: Ensure that food service areas are well-organized and capable of serving a large crowd efficiently to minimize lines and wait times, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, whether partnering with local vendors or opting for an in-house setup, the goal is to provide a seamless and satisfying culinary experience that complements the unique ambiance of an outdoor cinema event. This strategic approach not only boosts profitability but also enhances the overall event experience, encouraging patrons to return for future screenings.

Feedback And Improvement

At the heart of any sustainable Outdoor Cinema venture lies the agility to adapt and refine. Implementing a robust system for gathering attendee feedback post-event is essential. This feedback becomes the cornerstone for analyzing the success of each screening and identifying areas for improvement. Effective feedback mechanisms can include digital surveys, interactive mobile apps, or even traditional comment cards handed out at events.

Insights derived from attendee feedback serve as a vital tool to enhance film selections, adjust logistical arrangements, and improve overall event ambiance. Seasonal scheduling for outdoor cinemas and the choice of films, for instance, can significantly benefit from audience preferences, ensuring that the lineup remains appealing and relevant.

Strategic Tips for Maximizing Feedback Utility

• Ensure Accessibility: Make feedback tools easily accessible and user-friendly. A QR code linked to a survey at the end of an event, for example, can increase participation rates.
• Incentivize Responses: Offering a small reward, such as a discount on future tickets or a prize draw, can boost the number of attendees willing to provide feedback.
• Immediate Collection: Collecting feedback immediately or shortly after the event while experiences are fresh, often yields more accurate and useful responses.

This consistent loop of feedback and adaptation enables the Outdoor Cinema to maintain a dynamic approach to hosting events. Not only does this process help in fine-tuning operational aspects, but it also reinforces the cinema’s commitment to its audience. By leveraging such insights, an Outdoor Cinema can effectively improve its service delivery, leading to increased attendee satisfaction and retention, thus ensuring the long-term success of the business.

Launching an outdoor cinema business can be both challenging and rewarding. By following the nine steps outlined – from developing a comprehensive business model and securing funding to ensuring legal compliance and fine-tuning operations through customer feedback – entrepreneurs can establish a successful and sustainable venture. Remember, the key to success lies in meticulous planning, a deep understanding of your audience, and consistent delivery of unique and memorable experiences. Embrace the opportunity to bring joy through film under the stars.

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Open Air Cinema Business Plan

Are you drawn to the charm of open air cinema and picture yourself as a curator of unforgettable film experiences under the stars? If yes, you’re about to start on an amazing trip through the world of outdoor entertainment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of creating a successful open-air movie business plan, from comprehending the concept to establishing your location, obtaining licenses, pricing methods, and effective marketing techniques.

Table of Contents

Exploring the world of open air cinemas.

Open-air cinemas provide a distinct and enchanting movie-going experience, combining the beauty of cinema with the tranquility of the outdoors. Unlike traditional movie theaters, open-air cinemas allow spectators to watch a wide range of films, including new releases, classics, and blockbuster successes, in a casual and communal setting. While the concept has long been popular in other nations, it is gradually gaining popularity in India, with successful companies popping up in key cities.

Diving into Different Types of Open Air Cinemas

• Drive-in theaters: Drive-in theaters transform a big open space into a cinematic paradise, with a large theater-sized screen, powerful speakers, and wireless headphones. Moviegoers can park their automobiles and immerse themselves in the film from the comfort of their vehicles, with the option to listen to the audio straight through their car radios.
• Open Air Cinemas: Capturing the essence of outdoor entertainment, open air cinemas show films on large projector screens set up in open locations. Patrons can relax on comfy seating options such as sofas, rockers, bean bags, loungers, and even beach beds, resulting in a nice and appealing atmosphere for moviegoers.

Crafting Your Open Air Cinema Setup

• Location Selection: The success of your open air cinema hinges on choosing the perfect location. Consider venues like malls, parks, hotels, swimming pools, public spaces, terraces, or parking lots. Accessibility, ample parking, and restroom facilities are vital considerations when selecting your venue.
• Licensing: Obtain the necessary licenses under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, from the respective state authorities or district commissioner’s office. Ensure compliance with copyright regulations to legally screen movies at your venue.
• Costing Strategies: Determine ticket prices based on factors such as seating capacity, number of shows, seating type, and weekdays versus weekends. Adjust pricing to reflect the city’s demographics and the venue’s location, ensuring affordability without compromising profitability.

Unleashing Smart Marketing Techniques

Maximize the visibility and reach of your open air cinema through strategic marketing initiatives:

• Adorn public spaces and nearby theaters with movie posters to pique interest.
• Distribute pamphlets in newspapers detailing the monthly movie schedule and timings.
• Leverage social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to announce screenings, engage with the audience, and create events for each movie.
• Harness the power of WhatsApp groups to foster a sense of community and keep patrons informed about upcoming screenings and special events.

Embracing Success and Navigating Challenges

As you embark on your open air cinema venture, anticipate challenges such as weather fluctuations, equipment maintenance, and audience turnout. Stay adaptable and responsive, continuously refining your strategies to meet evolving market demands and customer preferences.

Taking on the task of opening an outdoor theater business is exciting and presents a chance to bring innovation to all facets of the enterprise. Beyond the doable actions described in this article, what will propel your success will be your passion for movies and commitment to deliver outstanding cinematic experiences.

Your love of movies can be combined with careful preparation, creative marketing techniques, and a sense of wonder that will take viewers to a world of cinematic splendor outside under the stars. Picture-perfect evenings with the stars shining, a light wind rustling, and the combined excitement of crowds anticipating the release of beloved oldies and huge hits alike.

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Movie Theater Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Hospitality, Travel & Tourism » Movie Theater & Cinema

Do you want to start a movie theater  and need to write a plan? If YES, here is a sample movie theater business plan template & feasibility report.

So, if you are considering opening a movie theater, you need capital to purchase or lease/rent a suitable facility, the required equipment, tools and furniture. You also need some additional capital to secure commercial license to air movies, pay your employees at least for the first 3 months, and also to pay your utility bills.

Lastly, you would need a good business plan to be able to launch a successful business and below is a workable movie theater business plan template that will help you draft yours.

A Sample Movie Theater Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

A movie theater which is also called a cinema is a venue, usually a building, that contains an auditorium for viewing films/movies or motion pictures as it is called in some quarters, for the purpose of entertainment or perhaps education.

Almost all movie theaters are commercial operations open to the general public, who attend by purchasing a ticket. Cinemas/movie theaters are generally custom designed buildings for viewing movies from any sitting position.

The Movie Theaters industry is currently in the growth stage of its life cycle. Statistics has it that the Movie Theaters industry in the united states of America is worth billion, with an estimated growth rate of 3.6 percent between 2014 and 2019.

There are about 4,545 registered and licensed Movie Theaters in the United States and they are responsible for employing about 157,928 people. Please note that the companies holding the largest market share in the Movie Theaters industry in the United States are AMC Entertainment Inc., Cineworld Group PLC and Cinemark Holdings Inc.

A recent report published by IBISWorld shows that the Movie Theaters industry has grown over the five years to 2019, despite strong external competition. Over the five years to 2019, industry revenue is estimated to grow an annualized 3.6 percent, reaching $18.9 billion in 2019, including revenue growth of 1.0 percent in 2019 alone.

With increases in per capita disposable income and the success of blockbuster films during the period, industry revenue has grown despite competition from substitute film viewing methods, other forms of entertainment and a decrease in total theater attendance.

External competition from substitute entertainment products and other ways of accessing films, including online video, on-demand services, internet-enabled TVs, smartphones and tablets, have increasingly shifted movie consumption.

Although the movie theatre industry can be said to be a competitive industry, but it does not stop entrepreneurs who are creative to still make headway in the industry. It is indeed a profitable industry especially when the business is well located. Busy cities with growing population are highly suitable for movie theatre.

Any aspiring entrepreneur can comfortably start his or her own movie theatre business by acquiring an existing cinema house and then refurbish it to meet the expected standard or start the business from the scratch by constructing a new movie theatre and then equipping it with the needed equipment and accessories.

Lastly, movie theater and other related entertainment businesses are part of human lifestyle hence it must be located near human and vehicular traffic if indeed you want to maximize profits from the business. It would be to your advantage if you lease a facility that is located in a bubbling city that has loads of upwardly mobile young adult.

2. Executive Summary

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is a standard movie theater company that is fully equipped with the latest technology in the movie industry. Our movie theater facility will be located in the heart of Inglewood, Los Angeles – California, U.S and we are positioned to partner with film makers and diverse group of people who would want to watch movies in a standard movie theater.

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. will engage in showing movies in our cinemas, drive-in and outdoor movie theaters. Our business goal is to work towards becoming one of the leading movie theater brands in the whole of Los Angeles and in the nearest future compete with the leaders in the industry not only in the United States but also at the global stage.

We are not ignorant of the fact that building a standard and world class movie theater company from the scratch requires huge capital base especially for the purchase of the latest equipment, which is why we have perfect plans for steady flow of cash from our business partners with interest in our line of business.

We can confidently say that we have a robust financial standing and we are ready to take on any challenge that we encounter in the industry.

We will ensure that all our employees are selected from a pool of talented and highly creative people with eyes for good movies in and around Los Angeles – California. We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company and to compete with other players in the United States.

At Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. our client’s best interest will always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely and of course showing movies and videos that can compete with the best in the world.

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is owned majorly by Donald Pedro and other partners. Donald Pedro is a certified and licensed film producer, he graduated from New York Film Academy and he has over 25 years hand on experience in the movie theater industry working for leading film and video producing companies and also leading movie theaters in Hollywood.

He will build the business alongside other experienced partners who have successfully carved a niche for themselves in the industry.

3. Our Products and Services

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is going to offer varieties of services in the movie theater industry in the United States of America. Our intention of starting our movie theater business in Inglewood – Los Angele, California is to make profits from the industry and we will do all that is permitted by the law in the US to achieve our aim and business goals.

Our business offerings are listed below;

• Showing of Action and adventure films, Comedy films, Drama films, Thriller/suspense films, Musical Videos, Documentaries and Other films
• Operating drive-in movie theaters
• Film festival exhibition
• Motion picture exhibition for airlines
• Admissions to feature films
• Food and beverage sales

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to build a standard and world – class movie theater business that can favorably compete with leaders in the industry.
• Our mission is to build a world class movie theater company that will show a wide genre of movies to clients that cut across all divides; we want to build a movie theater brand that can work with clients (film makers) not only in the United States of America, but in all parts of the world.

Our Business Structure

The success of any business is dependent on the business structure of the organization and the people who occupy the available roles. Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. will build a solid business structure that can support the growth of our movie theater business. We will ensure that we hire competent hands to help us build the business of our dream.

The fact that we want to become one of the leading movie theater brands in the industry in the whole of the United States of America makes it highly necessary for our organization to deliberately build a well – structured business from the onset. Below is the business structure that we will build Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc.;

• Chief Executive Officer

Entertainment Lawyer/Legal Secretary

Theater Manager

Admin and HR Manager

Marketing and Sales Executive

• Theater Attendant/Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Office:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Responsible for drawing up contracts and other legal documents for the company
• Provides historical reference by developing and utilizing filing and retrieval systems; recording meeting discussions; maintaining transcripts; documenting and maintaining evidence.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Responsible for managing every activity that goes on in the movie theater
• Responsible for managing the company’s facility and equipment
• Responsible for developing concept and managing movies from start to finish
• Responsible for choosing the right movie to show per time
• Handle any other responsibility as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carrying out induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
• Facilitate and coordinate strategic sessions.
• Work directly with clients in a non-advising capacity, such as answering questions, scheduling appointments and making sure all training concerns are properly taken care off
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office activities.
• Once the movie is ready, then the marketing team will go out to market and promote the album
• Identify, prioritize, and reach out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies business opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients, cinema operators and movie distributors
• Document all customer contact and information
• Represent the company in strategic meetings
• Help increase sales and growth for the company
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the company
• Serves as internal auditor for the company

Theater Attendant

• Checking people’s tickets as they enter the auditorium.
• Solving any problems relating to seating arrangements, such as double bookings.
• Dealing with any disturbances that may occur during the show.
• Helping the audience to leave in an orderly fashion at the end of a performance, and making sure all the customers have left the building.
• Supervising the evacuation of the premises in the event of an emergency.
• Collecting litter and cleaning the facilities during the day.
• Helping people with disabilities, such as those with wheelchairs, and making sure they have easy access to fire exits.
• Working in the cinema or theatre’s cafe, bar or box office

Client Service Executive

• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In centre, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the company’s promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. engaged the services of a core professional in the area of startup business consulting and structuring to assist the organization in building a standard movie theater company that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the United States of America.

Part of what the business consultant did was to work with the management of the company in conducting a comprehensive SWOT analysis for Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc.;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team and the latest film and video projecting equipment that we have. We have a team that can give our clients value for their money; a team that knows how to get the very latest movies from the industry.

We are well positioned in the heart of Inglewood; Los Angeles and we know we will attract loads of clients from the first day we open our movie theater company for business.

As a new movie theater company based in Los Angeles, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to pump into the promotion our business the way we would want to.

• Opportunities:

As a leisure activity, movie attendance relies on household disposable income levels, which, in turn, are affected by the employment rate, tax rates and the general state of the economy. When disposable income levels rise, people are increasingly able and willing to spend on discretionary items, driving up ticket and concession sales.

Conversely, consumers may reduce trips to the movies when they have lower disposable income. Per capita disposable income is expected to increase in 2019, representing a potential opportunity for the industry.

The number of broadband connections indicates the extent to which consumers use high-speed internet for a variety of purposes, including accessing competing streaming platforms. With the rapid rise in broadband connection numbers, more consumers are using the internet to download or stream movies, which directly reduces demand for the Movie Theaters industry.

The number of broadband connections is expected to rise in 2019, posing a potential threat to the industry.  So also, just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing/spending power.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

In recent time, Movie Theaters are finding it difficult to fill up their seats. This is due to competition from online streaming platforms that have successfully drawn movie-goers away from the theaters. Going forward, the movie theater industry will benefit from rising disposable income, which will encourage consumers to spend more on entertainment.

The truth is that even though disposable income levels have improved since the recession, enabling more entertainment spending, media consumption is increasingly shifting toward lower-cost online subscriptions, such as Netflix and Hulu.

This trend has been supported by the rising number of tablets and smartphones capable of streaming movie files, as well as the continued development of wireless data connection.

The fact that the industry is highly competitive does not in a way stop some movie theater companies from declaring profits yearly. In the bid to stay afloat in the highly competitive cinema business, owners of cinemas now go the extra mile to make their facility welcoming and conducive for customers.

Movie theatres now have coffee bars, snack bars, and free Wi-Fi et al. Another known trend in the movie theater industry is that most movie theaters are trying as much as possible to recreate themselves and also to be on top of their game.

8. Our Target Market

When it comes to the movie theater business, there are no exemptions to who you can market your services to. Your movies can be marketed to adults, children, teenagers, corporate organization, government and everyone who can afford to purchase a ticket.

In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individuals who we know will need to visit our movie theater. We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that our movie theater company attracts the kind of film makers and clients we would love to work with.

Below is a list of the people and organizations that we will market our services to;

• Corporate Organizations (team bonding event and trainings)
• Teenagers, Adults and Children
• Film makers (B2B)

Our Competitive Advantage

We are mindful of the fact that there are stiff competitions in the movie theater industry in the United States of America, hence we have been able to hire some of the best business developers to handle our sales and marketing.

Our Competitive Advantage revolves around our ability to attract local support and patronage, easy compliance with government regulations, ability to quickly adopt new technology, raise financing and follow international best practices in the movie theater industry.

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. might be a new entrant into the movie theater industry in the United States of America, but our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team, our cozy facility and the latest film and video projecting equipment that we have.

We have a team that can give our clients value for their money; a team that can produce world class movies that can favorably compete with movies produced by leaders in the industry.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the movie theater industry and we are going to do all it takes to attract our target market. Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. will generate income by offering the following services and products;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain when it comes to movies and documentaries; they never die and the demand for good movies and documentaries will continue to grow. This goes to show that any movie theater company that is known to always show latest movies will continue to attract movie lovers.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Los Angeles – California and beyond and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income/profits from our first six month of operation and grow the business and our clientele base beyond Los Angeles – California to other cities in the U.S.

We have been able to examine the movie theater market, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with a sales forecast. Below are the sales projections for Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc., it is based on the location of our business and other factors as it relates to movie theater startups in the United States;

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $300,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $600,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $900,000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the movie theater industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet the overall goal of the organization. We will also ensure that our excellent movies and videos speaks for us in the market place.

Our business goal is to build Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. business to become one of the leading choice in the whole of Los Angeles – California which is why we have mapped out strategies that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with in the U.S.

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to organizations and key stake holders in the movie theater industry (movie distributors and film producers) in Los Angeles and other parts of the U.S.
• Advertise our business in relevant entertainment magazines, newspapers, TV , and radio stations
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local film festivals, expos, seminars, and concerts et al
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage in direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from our loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with brand and publicity specialist to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. We are set to take the movie theater industry by storm which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our movie theater.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc.;

• Place adverts on both print and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant TV shows and radio programs
• Maximize our official website to promote our business
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+ and other platforms (music online forums) to promote our business.
• Ensure that our we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Los Angeles – CA
• Brand all our official cars and ensure that our trademark label is boldly printed in all our facilities

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. we will keep our fees and prices of movie ticket a little below the average market rate by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to groups that purchase our movie tickets.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulations of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. will make available to her clients;

• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payment for movie tickets and product purchased without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

The cost of setting up movie theater business can be quite expensive especially if you are starting a standard movie theater. These are the areas we are looking towards spending our startup capital on;

• The total fee for registering the business in the United States of America – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits (Health department license and business license) and permits (Fire department permit, Air and water pollution control permit, and Sign permit et al) as well as accounting services (CRM software, Payroll software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $15,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of the movie theater in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• The cost for hiring business consultant (including writing business plan) – $2,500.
• The cost for insurance (general liability, theft, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $30,400.
• The cost for leasing a standard facility in good and centralize location – $350,000
• The cost for remodeling the facility and constructing a standard movie theater – $250,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility (gas, sewer, water and electric) deposits ($6,500).
• The operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for start-up inventory and cinema gadgets and equipment (projectors, sound system, silver screen and good lighting systems et al) – $350,000
• The cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Telephone, printing machines, receipt issuing computer, computers, tables and chairs et al) – $14,000.
• The cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs – 4,500
• The cost for building and hosting a website – $600
• The cost for our opening party – $8,000
• Miscellaneous – $10,000

We will need an estimate of nine hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($950,000) to successfully set up a medium scale but standard movie theater in the United States of America.

Generating Funds/Startup Capital for Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc.

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is going to start as a partnership business that will be owned and managed by Donald Pedro and his business partners. They are the financiers of the business, but may likely welcome other partners later which is why they have decided to restrict the sourcing of his startup capital to 3 major sources.

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from the bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $400,000 (Personal savings plus funds from business partners) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $500,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Part of the plans we have in place to sustain Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. is to ensure that we continue to show latest movies, offer and deliver quality services, improvise on how to do things faster and cheaper. We are not going to relent in providing conducive environment for our workers.

From our findings, another factor that kills a new business is financial leakages. In order to plug financial leakages, the management of Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. adopted the use of payment machine and accounting software to run the business.

We are quite aware that our customers are key components to the growth and survival of our business hence we are going to continuously engage them to give us ideas on how to serve them better. We will not waste time in adopting new technology, best practices and diversifying our services once the need arises.

Don Pedro™ Movie Theater Company, Inc. will make sure that the right foundations, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Renting of Office Facility: Completed
• Setting Up Of The Movie Theater: In Progress
• Intellectual Property Protection and Trademark: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting feasibility studies: Completed
• Generating part of the start – up capital from the founder: Completed
• Applications for Loan from our Bankers: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents : In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Printing of Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees : In Progress
• Purchase of the needed cinema equipment / gadgets (projectors, silver screen, and sound system et al), furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with key players in the film and video production industry: In Progress

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By asking the question “how can I start my own outdoor cinema business?” you have already begun. The success of owning your own pop-up cinema business relies on your passion and creativity and, of course, the right equipment. You will need funds to purchase a complete pop-up cinema package which should include everything you need to rock up and pop up. It will not take you long to recover your start-up costs.

Equipment Requirements:

• Inflatable screen
• Projector (rear projection)
• Fm Transmitter  (if necessary)
• Equipment Table

Go directly to our Own your Own to find suppliers to start an outdoor cinema business.

For more info on how to get started check out our blog Top 10 tips from a Pro .

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Starting Your Dream Cinema Business

Diving into the cinema industry can be an incredibly rewarding venture for those with a passion for film and storytelling. The key to unlocking this magical realm begins with meticulous planning and a clear understanding of your target audience. Aspiring entrepreneurs must delve deep into market research, ensuring that their chosen location resonates with the movie-going public's preferences. A well-thought-out business plan is crucial, outlining your vision for a captivating cinematic experience that stands out from the crowd. It's essential to invest in top-notch projection equipment and comfortable seating, creating an inviting ambiance that patrons will adore. Forge partnerships with distributors early on to secure a diverse array of films that cater to various tastes.

After laying down the groundwork with thorough research and strategic planning, it's time to consider the aesthetic allure of your cinema. Employing a platform like Desygner can assist in crafting visually stunning promotional materials that echo the spirit of your brand. The design of your theatre should be immersive, whisking customers away from reality into the extraordinary world of movies as soon as they step through your doors. Meticulous attention to acoustics will elevate the film-watching experience, ensuring every whisper and explosion is heard with crystal clarity. Engage with your community through special events and themed nights, cultivating a loyal band of cinephiles who'll become regulars at your establishment. Above all, remember that exceptional customer service is the linchpin that will make your cinema not just a business but a beloved local landmark.

Understanding the Challenges Ahead

Embarking on the journey to open a cinema is like producing your own blockbuster. You've got ambition and vision, but translating that into a bustling venue takes more than just passion. It's about knowing what you're up against - from hefty startup costs to securing the right location. These challenges can seem as daunting as a high-stakes car chase scene. Yet, those who navigate them cleverly will hear the sweet sound of ticket stubs rather than alarming sirens.

Navigating Zoning Laws and Regulations

The script for how to start a cinema isn't complete without understanding local laws. Zoning regulations play the role of a methodical editor, ensuring your business fits within the community's narrative. Each city or town has its own set of rules when it comes to commercial properties - including cinemas. Being unaware of these could lead to costly retakes in your business setup process. So, do your homework and keep the cutting room floor clear.

Crafting an Unforgettable Movie-Going Experience

Once you've cleared the hurdles of legality, focus on what makes a movie theater special. It's not just about what's on the screen; it's how people feel from the moment they step into your story palace. Comfortable seating, exceptional sound quality, and an inviting ambiance are key features that will have audiences coming back for more. Think of each element as part of your cast - each one needs to play its part perfectly. Ensure that every visit to your cinema is an experience worth repeating.

Staying Ahead with Technology

Innovation doesn't stop at the movies themselves; it extends to how they're shown. You'll need state-of-the-art projectors and sound systems that make viewers feel like they're inside the film. Offering online ticket sales is no longer optional--it's expected by convenience-loving patrons. Furthermore, engage customers with mobile apps for easy access to showtimes and loyalty rewards. Staying ahead technologically means staying relevant in this fast-paced industry.

Constructing a Strategic Marketing Plan

You can have all the best amenities, but if no one knows about them, your seats will stay empty. A strong marketing plan is critical to fill those seats and butter up profits with popcorn sales. Social media campaigns, partnerships with local businesses, and special event nights are just the beginning. Your aim should be to create buzz that's as compelling as a summer blockbuster teaser trailer. Let them know why your cinema is not just another theater - it's an epic event.

Boost campaigns with 250+ editable templates. Save, reuse, and wield design tools for business growth.

Focusing on Customer Service Excellence

The spotlight must always shine on customer satisfaction in this performance. Just like any good protagonist faces trials, you'll encounter patrons with diverse needs and expectations. Train your staff to handle these situations with poise and professionalism worthy of an Oscar nod. Remember, reviews travel faster than light in this digital age - so make sure they glow positively for your cinema business. Exceptional service keeps customers loyal and turns them into advocates for your brand.

Securing a Diverse Range of Film Titles

Your patrons expect a plot twist now and then - offer them variety in your movie selection to keep things interesting. By securing relationships with distributors for both blockbusters and indie films, you cater to all tastes. This diversity also helps buffer against seasonal fluctuations typical in box office trends. Keep in mind that exclusive screenings or themed movie nights can add extra appeal to cinephiles in search of unique experiences. A well-curated film lineup is like an ensemble cast; every genre plays an important role.

Planning Your Grand Premiere

The final cut before opening day involves meticulous planning and flawless execution--your grand premiere sets the tone for your cinema business's future reputation. Engage potential guests through sneak peeks behind-the-scenes or early bird specials that pique interest without revealing too much plot too soon. Coordinate with local media outlets for coverage that adds credibility while stoking public curiosity even further--the opening night should be nothing short of spectacular.

Key Takeaways on Launching Your Cinema Venture

As we wrap up our comprehensive journey through the intricacies of starting a cinema business, it's essential to reflect on the fundamental pillars that will underpin your entrepreneurial adventure. Establishing a successful cinema is no small feat, but with careful planning and a keen eye for detail, you can create a magnetic destination for film lovers.

Firstly, understanding your audience is crucial. Catering to their preferences and providing exceptional customer experiences will set the foundation for a loyal customer base. It's also vital to stay updated with technological advancements in audio-visual equipment to ensure your screenings are top-notch. Remember, your cinema isn't just about films; it's about offering an unforgettable experience.

Moreover, selecting the right location can make or break your cinema. A strategic spot that balances visibility, accessibility, and cost efficiency is key to drawing crowds. Once the lights dim and the show starts, you want every seat filled with eager eyes and smiles. Crafting an effective marketing strategy will also help in promoting your brand and securing a steady flow of moviegoers.

To encapsulate our discussion, here are eight bullet points to keep in mind as you embark on this exciting venture:

• Conduct thorough market research.
• Create a robust business plan.
• Invest in high-quality production technology.
• Design a welcoming and comfortable environment.
• Prioritize customer service excellence.
• Develop strategic partnerships.
• Keep abreast of industry trends and updates.
• Utilize tools like Desygner for your marketing material needs.

In conclusion, while the road may be challenging, the joy of bringing stories to life on the big screen is unparalleled. Seize every opportunity for innovation and strive for excellence in every aspect of your cinema business. With passion and perseverance, you'll not only entertain but inspire your community one film at a time. If designing professional-looking marketing materials is what you need next, consider signing up at Desygner to bring that polished edge to your promotional endeavors.

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Movie Theater Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Movie Theater Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their movie theaters. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a movie theater business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

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What is a Movie Theater Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your movie theater as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Movie Theater

If you’re looking to start a movie theater, or grow your existing theater, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your movie theater in order to improve your chances of success. Your movie theater business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Movie Theater Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a movie theater are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings is the other most common form of funding for a movie theater. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for movie theaters.

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How to write a business plan for a movie theater.

If you want to start a theater or expand your current one, you need a business plan. In the following movie theater business plan template, we detail what you should include in your own business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of movie theater facility you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a movie theater that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of movie theaters?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the movie theater industry. Discuss the type of movie theater you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target market. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of movie theater company you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of movie theaters:

• First-Run Movie Theater : this type of business focuses on screening films that have just been released.
• Discount Movie Theater: this type of business screens films in their second run, meaning they have been released for a while. This is a good option for theaters that are older, smaller, less updated, or are located in a less desirable neighborhood.
• Art House Theater: this type of business screens films that were intended to be serious artistic works as opposed to films made primarily for entertainment.

In addition to explaining the type of movie theater you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of tickets sold, number of positive reviews, total number of movies screened, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the movie theater industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section:

• How big is the industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your movie theater company? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: families, university students, young professionals, budget-conscious moviegoers, and people with a higher education or interest in art.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of business you operate. Clearly, families would respond to different marketing promotions than young professionals or university students, for example.

Try to break out your target market in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most movie theaters primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other movie theaters.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes online streaming services and video rental retailers. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other movie theaters with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be movie theaters located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of movies do they screen?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide more comfortable seating, a better audiovisual experience or better concessions?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a movie theater business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of movie theater company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to screening films, will you provide concessions, alcoholic beverages (where legal) or arcade games?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your movie theater company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your movie theatre business located in a busy retail district, shopping plaza, mall, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your movie theater marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your theater, including selling tickets, taking tickets, cleaning theaters, operating film screenings.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sell your 100,000th ticket, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your movie theater company to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your movie theater’s ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing movie theaters. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing theaters or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you sell 3,000 tickets per day or per month? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your movie theater, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a movie theater:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your theater location lease or timetables for movies you are screening.  

Putting together a business plan for your movie theater is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the movie theater industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful movie theater.  

Movie Theater Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my movie theater business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Movie Theater Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of movie theater  business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a movie theater business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of movie theater businesses?

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Movie Theater business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to hire someone to write a business plan for you from Growthink’s team.

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Movie Theater

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Movie Theater

Written by: Natalie Fell

Natalie is a business writer with experience in operations, HR, and training & development within the software, healthcare, and financial services sectors.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on May 28, 2022 Updated on May 21, 2024

Investment range

$135,500-$324,600

Revenue potential

$195,000 - $520,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 - 3 months

Profit potential

$59,000 - $156,000 p.a.

Industry trend

There’s nothing quite like seeing a movie on the big screen. The cinematic experience of watching a film in a theater feels larger than life! Although streaming services have made it easier to watch the latest blockbusters at home, improved technology and new innovations keep people coming back to the theater.

As the pandemic recedes, people are heading back out on the town, and the US movie theater industry is expected to grow 4.8% annually through 2028.  

Right now is a great time to start the cinema of your dreams, but it’s important to make sure you have the business fundamentals down before you dive in. Luckily, this step-by-step guide contains all the information and insight you need to put you and your new movie theater on the path to success. 

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Before you decide to start your own movie theater, it’s important to consider the pros and cons.

• Fun Work Environment – Show films and delight your customers!
• Post-pandemic Boom – Movie-goers are heading back to the theater
• Make Connections – Build lasting community relationships
• High Startup Costs – Equipment and film licensing fees are pricey
• Compete with Streaming Services – Many are choosing to watch movies at home

Movie Theater industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – In 2022, the US movie theater industry is worth $12.1 billion. The industry dipped during the pandemic, but it’s now making a full recovery . (( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/movie-theaters-united-states/ ))
• Growth forecast – Globally, the movie theater market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4.7% through 2028.(( https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/movie-theaters-market/ ))
• Number of businesses – There are 2,525 movie theater businesses in the US in 2022.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/movie-theaters-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends within the movie theater industry include:

• Some theaters have pivoted to offering private events where families, friends, or organizations can reserve their own screenings. They’re also thinking outside the box and renting out their space for fantasy football draft parties, pay-per-view sporting events, and more. 
• Tech innovations like Magic Screen enable audiences to interact live with movie characters. It’s still in development, but pilot testing has shown promising results.

Challenges within the movie theater industry include:

• Before the pandemic, new releases typically stayed in theaters for around 90 days. Today, that time has been cut in half, which means fewer tickets are sold. There are also less movies being released. 
• With many new releases heading straight to streaming, people can now view these films right from their couches. More people are now choosing to stay home and save money instead of heading to the theater.

How much does it cost to start a movie theater?

Startup costs for a movie theater range from $135,000 to $325,000. Major costs include theater rental, equipment, labor, and the cost to license the films you feature. You may be able to keep costs low by renting equipment or purchasing used items and licensing older films instead of new releases. 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your movie theater, including: 

• Digital projector
• Projector screen
• Film licenses
• Concessions

How much can you earn from a movie theater?

The average cost of a movie ticket is $15. Movie-goers often purchase concessions when they’re available and spend an additional $10. After costs, your profit margin should be around 30%.

In your first year or two, assuming a two screen theater, you could show two screenings per week to 75 patrons each. You could charge $15 a ticket and sell $10 worth of concessions to each person, bringing in $195,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $59,000 in profit, assuming that 30% margin. As your movie theater becomes more popular, you could draw 200 people per screening, bring in $520,000 in annual revenue, and make an impressive profit of $156,000. 

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry when starting a movie theater. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Securing a viable theater location
• High startup costs
• Drawing viewers away from established theaters

Related Business Ideas

How to Start a Drive-in Movie Theater

How to Start a Film Production Company

How to Start a Video Production Company

Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a movie theater, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research movie theaters in your area and online to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a theater with a full-service restaurant or arcade. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as independent films or private events.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

At your movie theater, you’ll be selling tickets to the films you decide to feature. Due to licensing fees, blockbuster new releases are more expensive to show than older films. Offering concessions or a full bar with alcoholic beverages would increase revenue. 

Some theaters also have arcade games onsite. You could also consider renting your theater out for corporate events or private screenings. 

How much should you charge for movie tickets and concessions?

Movie tickets typically cost between $12 and $20. You can charge a discount for a matinee show or a premium price for weekend showings. In terms of concessions, you could charge anywhere from $5 to $12 for candy, popcorn, and sodas. If you decide to offer alcoholic beverages, you can charge between $10 and $20 per drink. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be individuals and families who enjoy viewing films in a theater. Movie-goers come in all ages, shapes, and sizes, so spread your marketing efforts across social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. 

Where? Choose your movie theater location

Ideally, you’ll want to lease an existing theater that’s already designed for showing films. Look for a theater in a desirable location that’s easily accessible with plenty of parking. Theaters attached to malls and shopping centers are convenient for patrons. 

As your business grows or if you acquire additional theaters, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out a separate office. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Movie Theater Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “cinema” or “theater”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Screen Savvy” over “Horror House Cinema”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Movie Theater Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary : A brief summary outlining the movie theater business’s main highlights and goals.
• Business Overview : A concise description of the movie theater, its location, and its mission.
• Product and Services : Explanation of the movies, concessions, and additional offerings provided by the theater.
• Market Analysis : An assessment of the local demand for movie entertainment and demographic trends.
• Competitive Analysis : Evaluation of other theaters and entertainment options in the area.
• Sales and Marketing : Strategies for promoting the theater and attracting customers.
• Management Team : Introduction to the key individuals responsible for running the movie theater.
• Operations Plan : Details on day-to-day theater operations, from screening schedules to staffing.
• Financial Plan : Financial projections, including revenue, expenses, and profit expectations.
• Appendix : Supplementary information, such as supporting documents or additional research.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to movie theaters. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your movie theater will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a movie theater. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.  

Step 8: Apply for Movie Theater Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a movie theater requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your movie theater as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as  Veezi , JACRO , or Ticketor , to manage ticketing, develop mobile apps, and create digital signage. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with local restaurants for cross-promotions, offering discounts or package deals that include dinner and a movie, creating a win-win for both businesses.
• Local SEO  — Regularly update your Google My Business and Yelp profiles to strengthen your local search presence.
• Themed Movie Nights: Organize themed movie nights to attract niche audiences; for example, classic movie marathons, date nights, or family-friendly weekends.
• Loyalty Programs: Introduce loyalty programs that reward frequent customers with discounts, free tickets, or concession upgrades to encourage repeat visits.
• Social Media Engagement: Leverage social media platforms to engage with your audience through interactive content, polls, and behind-the-scenes glimpses to build a sense of community around your theater.
• Exclusive Premieres and Events: Host exclusive premieres, red-carpet events, or Q&A sessions with filmmakers to create buzz and position your theater as a go-to destination for film enthusiasts.
• Student and Senior Discounts: Attract a broader audience by offering discounted tickets for students and seniors on specific days or times, making your theater more accessible to different demographics.
• Matinee Specials: Introduce matinee specials during off-peak hours to entice budget-conscious customers, providing an additional revenue stream during slower periods.
• Local Sponsorships: Seek sponsorships from local businesses to fund special screenings or events, enhancing your community presence while generating additional revenue.
• Mobile App Integration: Develop a mobile app for easy ticket purchasing, personalized recommendations, and exclusive mobile-only promotions to enhance the overall customer experience.
• Customer Feedback Incentives: Encourage customer feedback by offering incentives such as discounts or free concessions, showing that you value their opinions and are committed to continuous improvement.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your movie theater meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your movie theater could be:

• Where Hollywood meets hometown!
• Fantastic film fun for the whole family
• More than just movies – cinema bar and cafe 

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a movie theater, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in the film industry for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in movie theaters. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a movie theater include:

• Cashier – Greet customers, sell tickets
• Concessions Workers – Prepare and serve food, collect payments
• Theater Manager – Manage employees, maintain inventory
• Film Operator – Manage projector and sound, troubleshoot equipment

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Movie Theater – Start Making Money!

As movie-goers head back to the big screen, it’s the perfect time to start your own cinema. It will take hard work, but it’s a rewarding way to make a living, and your movie theater could become everyone’s favorite hang-out spot!  

Now that you’ve done your homework, it’s time to put your entrepreneurial insights to good use and spark up that projector. 

• Movie Theater FAQs

Yes, movie theaters can be profitable. The key to increasing revenue is to offer and upsell concessions to your customers. You might also consider renting out your theater space for private events.

To differentiate your movie theater, focus on providing a unique and immersive movie-watching experience through features like state-of-the-art technology, comfortable seating, enhanced sound systems, specialized screenings (e.g., 3D, IMAX), curated film selections, and offering a variety of alternative content such as film festivals or special events.

Identify and secure movie distribution deals for your theater by networking with film distributors, attending industry events and film markets, utilizing online platforms for industry connections, showcasing your theater’s capabilities and audience reach, and negotiating licensing agreements directly with movie studios or independent filmmakers.

Offer discounts or loyalty programs such as discounted ticket prices for matinee screenings, special pricing for student or senior citizens, bulk ticket purchases for groups, loyalty cards with rewards or points-based systems that can be redeemed for future movie tickets or concessions, and exclusive access to advanced screenings or special events.

Provide a range of food and drink offerings in your movie theater, including traditional concessions like popcorn, candy, and soda, as well as expanded options like gourmet snacks, specialty coffees, artisanal ice cream, healthy snack choices, and even a full-service dining experience with a menu tailored to the movie theme or audience preferences.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Movie Theater Name
• Create a Movie Theater Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Movie Theater Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Movie Theater - Start Making Money!

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Movie Theater Business Plan Sample

Published Mar.20, 2019

Updated Apr.23, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 2

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Table of Content

Do you want to start movie theater business plan

A movie theater is a business in which you make contact with the film distributors, buy their movies and play them on a big screen for your audience in a comfortable and enjoyable environment. This business requires continuous serious work, money and time investment, resulting in the production of huge profit.

If you are looking for a complete guide on how to open a movie theater , thoroughly read this sample business plan for movie theater including financial and marketing analysis, written for a movie theater startup named, ‘The Arena’.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

The Arena will be a registered and insured movie theater company located in El Paso, Texas. Business will be owned by a husband and wife, Zac Martin and Enna Martin. All type of movies such as second run and first released will be played in The Arena.

2.2 Management

To open a movie theater and run it successfully, one should either have strong management skills or should hire an efficient manager. From the distribution of tickets to the proper seating of the audience in the hall, it’s all about management.

Zac will be responsible for upgrading the building, managing finances of the business, and supervision. However, Enna will manage stuff like the selection of the movie, hiring staff, theater marketing, and snacks. For managing day to day tasks efficiently they have decided to hire a general manager to help them run the business.

2.3 Customers

After a busy and a hectic day, everyone resorts to some entertainment place to spend their evenings. So every young and adult, child and old living near to our theater will fall into the category of our customers.

2.4 Target of the Company

The company aims at balancing the startup costs by earned profits within just three months of the launch and generate huge profits afterward by providing the best film, best food, and best drink all in one seat.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Zac and Enna, a husband and wife who were previously acting as managers in a multiplex company, will be the owners of The Arena. They both are graduates in management regarding domains from the same university and are skilled in their respective domains.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

After a three-year valuable experience in management, Zac and Enna have decided to start a movie theater of their own to serve the audience in the best way they have explored and of course to avail the opportunity of running their own company.

3.3 How the Business will be started

Zac and Enna will work in coordination with each other, however, they have decided to have a clear work division to avoid any sort of mismanagement. The Arena will be a movie theater comprising of four movie halls with a capacity of at least 250 people in each hall.

A building which previously was a marriage hall, will be restored to its fullest glory and upgraded to fulfill a theater requirement. And lastly, highly customer care-oriented staff will be hired for undertaking day to day chores.

The detailed start-up requirements as included in The Arena’s movie theater business plan  is given here:

To provide the services in a way you actually want to provide, you need to map their implementation even before researching on how to run a movie theater busines . Knowing the importance of preplanning Zac and Enna have enlisted their services with a little detail in their business plan for a movie theater  as given here:

• First & Second Run Movie Presentation: During the early stages of the startup, The Arena will present already released movies to its customers.
• Animated Movie Presentations: Animated movies will be played according to the demands of the public.
• Sales of Snacks & Drinks: To provide its customers with a great experience, The Arena will serve them with instant and delicious snacks and drinks.

Marketing Analysis of Movie Theatre Business

Excellent work.

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After you have decided to run a movie theater business , the next step is to do its accurate and detailed marketing analysis. Before opening a movie theater , you have to make sure whether you are selecting the convenient location or not. Or whether you have to opt for a drive in theater business plan  or a movie theater business plan for an auditorium. In either case, this sample on starting a movie theater business plan will be a great help for you.

5.1 Market Trends

Despite a large competition, movie theater business has been growing since the past few years by the annual growth rate of 3.1 percent and is expected to follow even a faster growth rate in the future. According to IBISWorld, movie theaters have generated a revenue of $18 billion in 2018, employing more than 155,400 people in the United States.

The business has its scope around the year in any climate or in any economic conditions, indicating that you won’t be at loss provided that you plan it successfully.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Before thinking about how to start your own movie theater business , you must be very clear about who will be your audience. Zac and Enna had divided their customers into three groups to focus on the demands of each group separately as given here:

Business plan for investors

5.2.1 Families: As The Arena will mainly be a second run released movie theater so its main target group will be the families who want a light entertainment within a walking distance or a short drive from their homes. People who seek family-oriented entertainment experience usually don’t care about watching a movie on the very first run. They just want quality and inexpensive entertainment.

5.2.2 Young & Adults: The second category which we look up as our customers will be the young and adults who want entertainment for a slight break in their daily routines, or as a good chance to enjoy with their friends and mates.

5.2.3 Children & Teens: The children and teens who want to have experience of watching movies in the cinemas like the other members of their families will also be our target customers. We’ll play our collection of animated and children movies for them.

The detailed market analysis of our potential customers is given in the following table:

5.3 Product Pricing

In the initial stages, we’ll price our tickets and snacks a little less than our competitors to get introduced to a wide audience. However, the prices may vary depending on the seat allocated and the price of movies.

After identifying the market trends, the market demand, and the potential customers of the startup, the next thing to cater in movie theater business plan  is to develop a strategy to attract those customers toward us.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

In all out research about how to start a cinema theater , Zac and Enna have thoroughly analyzed the market and the competitive edges they have to come up with, also given here for your help if you are formulating your home theater business plan .

Our biggest competitive advantage is that we are starting our business in an excellent locality in El Paso, as rest of the cinemas are very far from us, and several people would prefer to have a good entertainment near to their homes and offices. We’ll have excellent management, comforting environment, and good quality snacks to serve our customers.

Lastly, we have come up with a competitive edge which most of the others in the same business lacks. We will develop a website for our theater not for just looking at the schedule of movies but also for buying tickets and making reservations through online payment. We will make a poll every week, in which people could vote for the movie they want to see, the movie with the largest votes will be shown on every Sunday.

6.2 Sales Strategy

Sales strategy is the plan of how you will introduce your new business to your target customers. Considering the importance of advertisements, Zac and Enna had also included advertisements’ costs in their movie theater startup costs .

To advertise ourselves:

• We will sell discounted tickets for the first few months of our launch.
• We will offer a 20% discount on the purchase of snacks and drinks for the first three months.
• We will offer a free ticket to our customers after the purchase of six tickets in a month.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Considering our competitive advantages, our lower rates, and the quality of our services, our sales pattern is expected to increase with years. Our sales forecast on a yearly basis are summarized in the column charts.

The detailed information about sales forecast, total unit sales, total sales is given in the following table:

Personnel plan

In your movie theater business plan selection, distribution of tickets, proper seating arrangements and selling of delicious snacks have great importance. What’s more important is the dedicated and customer care oriented staff which will ensure the smooth running of your business for you.

7.1 Company Staff

Zac and Enna have decided to initially hire the following people for the startup:

• 2 Accountants to maintain financial records
• 2 Sales Executives responsible for marketing and discovering new ventures
• 4 Cleaners for cleaning the facility
• 4 Assistants for operating the facility and regulating day to day operations
• 1 Inventory Manager to manage the inventory needed for events
• 1 Front Desk Officer to act as a receptionist
• 2 Security Officers

To ensure the best quality service, all employees will be selected through vigorous testing and will be trained for a month before starting their jobs.

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

The following table shows the forecasted data about employees and their salaries for the next three years.

Financial Plan

After you have decided each and everything about your business, the last step is to estimate start up cost for a movie theater and make a detailed financial plan. Your financial plan should depict how much does it cost to open a movie theater, what are your investment group for business plan , how you will be able to balance your investments with the earned profits and much more.

The detailed financial plan for The Arena is given here for a rough estimate.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 brake-even analysis.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 profit monthly.

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 business ratios.

Download Movie Theater Business Plan Sample in pdf

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How to Open a Movie Theater

Movie theater businesses sells movie tickets to everyday people. They also sell tickets to private screenings for groups, businesses, and other organizations.

Learn how to start your own Movie Theater and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a movie theater by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Movie Theater
• Form your Movie Theater into a Legal Entity
• Register your Movie Theater for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Movie Theater
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Movie Theater
• Get Movie Theater Insurance
• Define your Movie Theater Brand
• Create your Movie Theater Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your movie theater. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Movie Theater Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your movie theater?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a movie theater.

A movie theater requires screens, chairs for ticket buyers, a reel projector, computers, speakers, dimmable lights, sound proofing, audio/video receivers, software to play films, HDMI cables, a ticket booth, a point of sale system, cash registers, a butter warmer, a popcorn maker, candy, refreshments, insurance and labor.

What are the ongoing expenses for a movie theater?

Ongoing expenses include labor, securing the rights to films, theater upkeep, insurance, facility rent, the cost of popcorn, candy and refreshments, and marketing. If you do not own your facility, monthly rent will likely be anywhere from $700 to several thousands of dollars depending on the building's size. Upkeep of the theaters, the building and parking lot will likely cost a couple hundred dollars per month at a maximum. Securing the rights to films hinges on their popularity and the nuances of theaters' relationships with distributors. Labor costs for ticket takers, ticket sellers, concessions personnel and cleaning staff will likely be between $8 and $10 per hour. A handyman will likely demand an hourly wage between $12 and $25. A movie theater manager will likely make between $30,000 and $50,000 per year. A marketing professional will command a salary in the same range as the manager.

Who is the target market?

The ideal customer is a large group that is willing to pay plenty of money to rent a portion of the theater for a private screening. Oftentimes, businesses and other organizations will pay extra money to secure a section of the theater for their group's viewing of a film.

How does a movie theater make money?

A movie theater business makes money by selling tickets to movies. This business also makes money by selling concessions such as popcorn, candy, and refreshments.

The typical movie theater charges between $8 and $15 per ticket. However, some movie theaters hold discount days/nights in which tickets are sold between $4 and $7. Popcorn typically costs between $4 and $10 based on the tub size. Refreshments cost between $3 and $6. You can charge between $3 and $6 for candy.

How much profit can a movie theater make?

A movie theater business can make upwards of $50,000 in its first couple years of operation. The level of profitability depends on the location, the specific movies shown and the number of screens at the facility. Expand your business to other locations, across the region or even across the nation and your profits will likely reach six figures or even millions of dollars.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Sell more than movie tickets. A movie theater business can sell popcorn, candy, refreshments, movie memorabilia etc. It is also possible to charge more for seats in the center/back of the theater. Be sure to charge more for evening tickets as opposed to matinee tickets. Consider replacing the front row seats with row-style seats with tables and chairs. You can sell premium food and drinks to moviegoers at comparably high prices. If your local laws permit the sale of alcohol in theaters, obtain a liquor license and sell beer, wine, and other items. Consider adding an arcade to your movie theater. You can make a substantial amount of money if your arcade has some of the latest video games.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your movie theater is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

In most states, it is necessary to obtain a movie theater license. Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a movie theater business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A movie theater is generally run out of a storefront. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a movie theater.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your movie theater will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Food Regulations

When selling food, you will need licensing from a local health department; all establishments serving food are required to pass a health inspection. Tips for faring well on a health inspections  

There are federal regulations regarding what can and cannot be added to, sold as, and processed with food. Attached is a resource from the Food and Drug Administration detailing the process of starting a food business: How to Start a Food Business .

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Movie Theater needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Movie Theater.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a movie theater

Explore every marketing avenue to the fullest. Market your business across an array of mediums to obtain maximum exposure. Make sure your web content is optimized for search engines (SEO) so locals can find your company online with ease. When marketing your theater, be sure to emphasize the factors that make your business unique. Perhaps you have extremely comfortable seats that recline. Maybe your ticket prices are low compared to those offered by other local theaters. Stress the advantages of watching a movie at your theater and people will show up. Establish business partnerships with local entrepreneurs so you can run joint promotions with nearby cafes, restaurants, bars, and other venues.

How to keep customers coming back

Customers are looking for value and unique offerings. Keep your prices in line with those of competitors. Offer discount movie nights so people can experience your theater first-hand. An individual who enjoys a screening at your theater at a discounted price is much more inclined to return for future screenings. Consider showing a handful of independent films that competitors do not provide. Make sure your popcorn is fresh and your drinks are cold. Keep your theater as clean as possible and people will post positive reviews online and return for future showings. Consider offering price discounts to large groups of people, students, and senior citizens. Getting them in the door for a screening just might convert them into loyal customers.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

If you have a passion for cinema, storytelling, and acting, running a movie theater business will prove especially rewarding.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a movie theater?

The typical movie theater business owner handles a wide array of responsibilities in the usual workday. He does everything from determining which movies to show at the theater to handling marketing endeavors, hiring new employees, delegating work to current employees, and securing licensing deals for future films.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful movie theater?

The entrepreneur should have a firm grasp on the desires of locals. An understanding of the types of movies people truly desire to watch has the potential to make the difference between a successful movie theater business and one that fails. The entrepreneur should also be a skilled marketer to boot.

What is the growth potential for a movie theater?

A successful movie theater business can expand to additional locations and eventually spread across the region or even the country.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a movie theater?

Differentiate yourself from the pack. Do not show the same movies as the rest of the local theaters. Hold several promotions to get the locals interested in your theater. Try to secure licensing deals so you can show movies that are in-demand as opposed to independent films that the general public probably is not interested in.

How and when to build a team

A team will be necessary right away unless you have a single screen at your theater. It is possible for you to handle ticket sales, cleaning, and marketing, yet you will need a couple people on-hand to take tickets and sell refreshments, popcorn, and candy. Your theater will also require a someone to run the projector. As time progresses and the business grows, more employees will be necessary. It is prudent to add a marketing professional, ticket takers, ticket sellers, cleaners, and a general manager. You can fill some of these roles when the business first launches, yet you will eventually become so busy that these duties must be delegated to others.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• National Association of Theatre Owners
• Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Franchise opportunity
• Cinema Grill Franchise opportunity

Real World Examples

• Michigan business
• LA business

Further Reading

• Theatre Budgeting Tips
• Tips For Starting a Movie Theatre

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

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Get this complete sample business plan as a free text document.

Movie Theater Business Plan

Start your own movie theater business plan

Falls River Theatre

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Falls River is a smaller town that lost its only movie theatre over 10 years ago. Since then, residents wishing to enjoy a night out at the movies have to drive about 30 miles to a theatre. And once they get to the theatre, it is usually a large antiseptic mega-plex, void of character.

The Falls River Theatre will provide the residents of Falls River with a long-awaited, hometown movie theatre. The films shown will be second run releases of the most popular movies in two target markets: families and young adults. The building that will house the facility is the historic old theatre building, built in 1936 and long-time home to the town’s acting companies. Since its closing it has been used only occassionally for community functions. Before its grand re-opening, the owners will restore the building to its former glory as one of the town’s main destinations for evening entertainment.

The two owners, Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman have the skills, expertise and capital to make this theatre succeed. Samantha has successfully managed a large movie house for seven years, developing skills in theatre management and movie selection while establishing important relationships with key people in the industry. Steve has the skills and ability to restore and upgrade the building so that it will be comfortable and welcoming.

With an substantial initial investment by the owners, we see modest profits by year two.

1.1 Keys to Success

• Proper film selection for the audience and the theater’s environment.
• Revenues from a mix of both traditional movie fare and other quality snacks and beverages.
• Careful management of internal finances to control costs.
• Great customer service.

1.2 Objectives

• Healthy sales in the first year, more than doubling by year three.
• Excellent revenues from concessions.
• Modest by stable profit margin by year two.

1.3 Mission

Falls River Theatre’s mission is to give our customers a big city entertainment experience in a small town. Our customers will relax in comfort and watch high-quality presentations of popular second-run movies, all within a short walk or drive from home. This is a convenience that Falls River residents have had to do without since the local theatre closed eleven years ago.

We aim to please the local community (who can wait a few weeks to see their favorite movies and don’t want to pay big city, new release prices). We will also provide our customers with satisfying and reasonably priced snack foods and beverages.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

The Falls River Theatre, a movie house with two screens and a capacity of 400, is located on Main Street in downtown Falls River, Wisconsin. Falls River, population 12,000, has been without a local movie theatre since 1992 when the old theatre, The Kinnick, closed down due to the death of its long time owner and the lack of an interested successor. Since that time, interested movie-goers in Falls River have had to drive 45 miles to the outskirts of Madison to go to a movie.

2.1 Company Ownership

The Falls River Theatre will begin operations as a sole proprietorship, owned and operated by its two founders: Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman.

2.2 Start-up Summary

Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman will be the main investors and operators of the Falls River Theatre. Samantha has been managing a multiplex theatre in Madison for the past seven years, gaining valuable experience while she looked for an opportunity to run her own theatre. Steve has been working part-time as a contractor/handy man in the local community.

The building where the theatre will be housed has been vacant, except for the occasional rental to a community group, since the closing of the former business. This has made the building’s owners anxious to collect a regular check, so they have agreed to rent the entire building for $900 per month for the first three years. There are some repairs and upgrades needed, especially in the balcony and snack bar areas. The founders will be responsible for those repairs and those estimates are included in the start-up expenses.

The Falls River Theatre will provide comfortable seating for its customers to view high quality, second run movies. The theatre’s management will be aided in movie selection by being able to see how movies have fared in their initial run, especially those that have shown success in the theatre’s two target markets: families and young adults. With two theatres in which to show movies, both markets can be targeted at the same time with minimal cannibalization.

A variety of quality, reasonably priced snack items and beverages will keep customers satisfied during their movie experience. The founders understand that the entire experience can be jeopardized by poor customer service and will seek to hire only the most customer service oriented personnel.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

The Falls River Theatre is located in downtown Falls River, the shopping and entertainment center of town. This provides easy access for every resident of Falls River and a viable entertainment option any night of the week. The local business community has shown great support for a theatre since it would keep residents, and their spending dollars, in the community instead of one of the surrounding communities. A typical family (there are about 2,300 on Falls River) can expect to save approximately $48 for a night out at the movies by coming to a local theatre. This savings, along with quality movie selection, should keep people coming back regularly.

4.1 Market Segmentation

• Families – this segment focuses on adults and parents with younger children who don’t need to see the latest movies on release and seek an inexpensive, quality, family-oriented entertainment experience.
• Young adults – this segment is comprised of the 16-24 year old age group. This group is interested in seeing comedy and action/adventure type movies that are not directed at the younger and family markets.

4.2 Service Business Analysis

The Falls River community has been in need of a local movie house since the closure of its only theatre eleven years ago. With the closest movie complex located 45 miles away, movie goers options are limited – either a round trip drive of over 90 miles or in home rentals. For people who enjoy the big screen, neither offers a satisfying experience. The Falls River Theatre can satisfy those needs with quality movies in a comfortable, old-style movie theatre.

4.2.1 Competition and Buying Patterns

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4.3 Target Market Segment Strategy

These two market segments, families and young adults, are targeted specifically because they comprise the two largest segments of Falls River’s population. The Falls River Theatre is determined to be a community-oriented business and seeks to serve as much of the population as possible. With a small college in town, there is an ample student market, consumers who often have limited transportation options.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

The strategy is simple: provide fair-priced, quality entertainment close to home for the two markets that comprise the bulk of Falls River’s population.

5.1 Competitive Edge

Falls River Theatre has a distinct competitive edge in that it is the only movie theatre within 45 miles of Falls River. There are no plans at this time to build a theatre complex in the town and, since the theatre will occupy the town’s only building capable of effectively housing a theatre, there is limited direct competition. Competition will come mainly from several multi-plex theatres located in Madison, the closest being 45 miles from Falls River.

To ensure that Falls River residents are pleased with the products offered, the theatre will rely on the expertise of Samantha, who has seven years of successful theatre management experience. Since she began managing the theatre in Madison ticket sales have grown at a consistent 4% annually. This is in part due to her skills in movie selection and her emphasis on customer service. Once the theatre is up and running, her time will be devoted to movie selection, staff hiring and supervision, theatre marketing, and ordering for the snack bar.

Samantha has also developed strong relationships with several movie booking agents serving the Wisconsin area and has already negotiated an agreement. The agreement has the booking agents collecting 60% of the first year’s admission revenues. Each year after that the percentage will be reduced by 1.5% through year 5 when it stabilizes at 54%.

Steve has strong construction skills and is considered a craftsman by his peers. Initially his talents will be used to restore the theatre from its current state of slight disrepair into the town’s main attraction for evening entertainment. Once the restoration is complete, Steve will transition into a part-time role, maintaining the facility and equipment, working the counter and ticket booth, and eventually, ordering concession items.

5.2 Marketing Strategy

Falls River is a small enough town that word gets around quickly. We anticipate that a buzz will be created once the renovations begin. Excitement will build as the grand opening approaches. To encourage that excitement, we will have a countdown to opening on the building’s marquee. Concurrently, advertisements in both the local newspaper and the college’s daily will promote the opening with coupons for free items from the snack bar. Since a large share of profits will come from concessions, we want to let people know about our tasty snacks. Finally, we will use our website to keep our customers, especially the more web salvy college students, updated on the movie selection, which will change every two weeks.

5.3 Sales Strategy

The Falls River Theatre will appeal to two segments of the market:

• Adults and parents with children who seek local, fair-priced evening entertainment aimed at the whole family.
• Young adults who are interested in seeing recent releases but are constrained by an inability or unwillingness to travel.

The main sales strategy is to provide recent successful movie releases that appeal to both audiences. With two theatres, we will be able to target both segments simultaneously.

Ticket prices will be $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12.

5.3.1 Sales Forecast

Sales will increase among both target segments as word spreads around town and to the surrounding communities. The increase in concession sales reflects the increased attendance. Concession sales are based on an average of $2.50 spent per ticket purchase.

5.4 Milestones

Steve will begin the theatre’s restoration in mid-January. Samantha will still be working with the theatre in Madison but will be able to contribute as-needed. Steve’s work will start inside, repairing and upgrading the facility as necessary. The main theatre’s balcony needs reinforcement. Repairs and upgrades to the concession area are also necessary. Painting will put the finishing touches on the interior of the structure. Finally, the interior should be fully restored by mid-March, once the upholstery repairs are finished.

By that time Samantha will have more time to begin work on the website, marketing materials and film selection. The weather should be turning better which will allow Steve to move outdoors to work on the front of the building. Minor repairs are needed on the marquee. A fresh coat of paint will prepare the building for customers. Samantha will also order any equipment for the concession area (some equipment is already in place and is useable), begin the hiring process and start the marketing. Finally, Steve will install the projection equipment and prepare for the grand opening.

Web Plan Summary

The website will be very simple. Its main purpose is to communicate to our customers what movies are showing at what times with links to each movie’s website and reviews. The design will feature an image of the theatre along with the a list of current movies and those that are coming soon and will be small enough to quickly load on most home computers. Since the movies will change every other week, maintenance should be fairly straight-forward. Arrangements have been made with both the local and college newspapers for links to our web site from theirs.

6.1 Website Marketing Strategy

The website address will be printed on tickets and it will be prominently placed on advertisements that we will run in the local paper.

6.2 Development Requirements

Development requirements are minimal, since the site will only be a few pages. The site will be built by a local website development firm. Once it has been created, the founders will be responsible for updating it with the latest movie listing each week. It is expected that this will take no longer than 1 -2 hours each week.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

Steve’s main responsibility will be to manage and execute the theatre’s restoration. Once that task is complete and the theatre is open for business, Steve will manage the maintenance of the building and work part-time in customer service (selling concessions) and ordering.

7.1 Personnel Plan

We believe that the key to customer service is happy employees. We will invest in a good team by compensating our part-time employees fairly.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The following sections outline the financial analysis for Falls River Theatre.

8.1 Important Assumptions

The following shows the important General Assumptions for Falls River Theatre.

8.2 Break-even Analysis

The following Break-even Analysis shows the monthly break-even point.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

The following table and charts show the Projected Profit and Loss for Falls River Theatre.

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

The two founders will be the sole investors. Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman will invest, both in early January.

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The following table illustrates Falls River Theatre’s Projected Balance Sheet.

8.6 Business Ratios

Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios are based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7832, [motion picture theatres, except drive-ins].

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Advice & Support

How to start a cinema

A guide for anyone interested in starting a cinema in the UK.

• 01 Foreword by director Michael Winterbottom
• 02 Strategic Choices
• 03 Planning
• 04 Understanding audiences
• 05 Organisation and constitution
• 06 Premises issues
• 07 Building design
• 08 Technical and Equipment Issues
• 09 Capitalisation
• 10 The economics of the operation
• 11 Operational matters
• 12 Appendix 1: Sample Options Appraisal
• 13 Appendix 2: Sample Sensitivity Analysis for one screen
• 14 Appendix 3: Sample Risk Assessment
• 15 Appendix 4: Cinema Audience Research

How to start a cinema is a guide for anyone who is interested in starting a cinema or showing films in their village, town or city in the UK. You may not know what you need to know but this guide aims to cover it all. It goes through all of the aspects you need to consider from suitable buildings to technical considerations, to costs, programming, marketing, staffing and finding an audience.

It also includes a number of case studies, from very large to very small venues, where you can hear the personal experiences, tips and insights of people who have actually done it. It may sound complicated but this aims to be a comprehensive guide to everything you need to consider with a series of easy-to-use chapter headings and summaries for each section.

Foreword by director Michael Winterbottom

One of the UK's top filmmakers gives a rousing call to arms for more independent cinemas and why they matter

Strategic Choices

This chapter looks at some of the fundamental choices you will have to make about your cinema before you start to raise funds or think about the programme.

The hard work begins. The proper planning of a cinema can take months, even years, and like any other business, involves a range of tried and tested planning tools explained here.

Understanding audiences

The key to making a cinema successful is having a strong feel for the range of audiences that it might attract: who are they, what do they want to see and how do you communicate with them?

Organisation and constitution

There are different organisational structures that a cinema can adopt according to its purpose. This chapter provides a run through of the most common models.

Premises issues

Local cinemas come in all shapes and sizes, in converted old buildings, new purpose built designs or re-claimed former cinemas. This chapter explores the plethora of ownership, licensing and regulatory issues which relate to managing a venue.

Building design

For audiences, the style and design of a cinema can be as important as the programme in making a cinema visit an unforgettable experience. Cinema has very specific design requirements and getting these right is an essential part of developing a facility that audiences will enjoy.

Technical and Equipment Issues

What are technical choices open to new cinema organisers, and how do these determine what you can show in your cinema?

Capitalisation

What are the key elements of your capital funds and how do you set about raising the money?

The economics of the operation

What are the key income streams and costs that need to be managed effectively to make a cinema viable?

Operational matters

From understanding film classification, to running a successful marketing campaign, there are a host of basic operational matters that local cinemas have to deal with on a day-to-day basis.

Appendix 1: Sample Options Appraisal

Appendix 2: sample sensitivity analysis for one screen, appendix 3: sample risk assessment, appendix 4: cinema audience research, further reading, what licences do i need.

Want to screen a film outside the cinema, but unsure what licences you need? Read our essential guide to non-theatrical exhibition.

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Open-Air Cinema Prachatice / Mimosa architects

• Curated by Paula Pintos
• Architects: Mimosa architects
• Area Area of this architecture project Area:  218 m²
• Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2023
• Photographs Photographs: BoysPlayNice
• Manufacturers Brands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers:   Bega , AV media , BETON-Těšovice , DEKMETAL , Haslinger , Kovostal , Mehler , Pfeifer
• Lead Architects: Petr Moráček, Jana Zoubková, Pavel Matyska
• City:  Prachatice
• Country:  Czech Republic
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Text description provided by the architects. Through a complete reconstruction, the dilapidated former open-air cinema with a huge capacity of 800 seats, was transformed into a functioning complex with a more sustainable capacity of 350. The shrinking of the grounds also allowed the creation of much-needed buffer areas between residential buildings and the cinema grounds, with the implementation of acoustic measures, and lastly the creation of a new connection between the surrounding residential complex and the nearby town center via Štěpánka’s Park.

The old cinema´s buildings were, given the difficulty in their adaptation and the overall state, demolished, as was the original projection wall that was shading the park. Three new buildings contain all the necessary facilities – a cash desk, buffet, hygienic facilities, the projection booth, a smaller projection wall with some rooms for the artists, and storage. The cinema is accessible to all in its entirety. The original “fractured” fencing toward the residential street was preserved. The fractured motif was also applied to newly built gabion walls, which separate the grounds from the residential buildings to the north. The area's natural terrain modulation was also preserved, used to naturally slope the cinema towards the projection wall.

The principles of the objects are given by their seasonal use, film inspirations, and associations. The system of film reels leading the film in a projector, and the design transforms into the forms of individual objects, where in place of a film strip, the wheels control the ropes of the roof. The tarp of the roof, a subtle steel construction, and a sheet of corrugated steel create an illusion of light, seemingly provisional “summer” objects.

The corrugated sheets are another nod to a movie illusion, created by the rhythm of individual fields, alternating light and shadow. The use of black steel visually connects the cinema to an earlier renovated Municipal Theatre of Prachatice . Another substantially used material is stone. Granite paving, larger stone pieces, and gabion walls connect to the stones used in the town's center. Where the grounds meet general public areas, a rigid stone paving was used, whereas, inside the cinema grounds, a “softer” more natural cut stone was used.

The textile roofing of the stage and a part of the auditorium increases the comfort of the performers and audience, whether it would be on a sunny afternoon or a rainy night, and positively impacts the acoustic properties of the cinema. Sky overhead the visitors is preserved for the majority of the auditorium. The objective of the chosen solution for roofing was maximum lightness of the construction with the idea being only of a tarp stretched between the buildings. Given the high degree of freedom of the construction, further supporting elements were added. Steel supports of the ropes are not only functional and technical elements, but also aesthetic ones.

Even though the projects of the Open-Air Cinema (Mimosa Architects) and Štěpánka’s Park were separated both in time and between studios, their finalization happened at the same time, in the first half of 2023. Prachatice thus obtained a very cultivated public space near the town square, with an area not only for film screenings but also for more cultural events in the town with a direct connection to its center.

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Address: na sadech, 383 01 prachatice, czech republic.

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Where to watch movies for free in Moscow this summer

People watching a movie in a Pioner 24-hour open-air cinema in Gorky Park.

Temporary cinemas will be popping up across Moscow very soon, starting from July 16. All of the spots are brilliant examples of either constructivist or avant-garde architecture, so expect striking settings. A selection of classic Soviet films will be aired using cinematic equipment from the last century. All the screenings are free although online registration is required beforehand, while there will also be guided tours of the spaces, organized by the “Moscow through the Engineer's Eyes” company.

Registration will be open soon at mos-kino.ru

Bread factory

Following the success of former factories transformed into art spaces (VinZavod, Arma, Trekhgornaya manufacture), Khlebzavod (“bread factory”) No 9 is one newly opened joint that is attracting creative types from all over the city. The movie Time! Forward! will be screened in the building’s boiler room on July 16. It follows workers from the Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works, one of the largest steel companies in Russia, and is based on a novel by Soviet writer Valentin Kataev.

What’s more, Khlebzavod is a monument to constructivist architecture. Where better to watch such a film?

Novodmitrovskaya St. 1

Roof of the Narkomfin Building

The Narkomfin Building was originally designed to house high ranking employees at the Commissariat of Finance. It was built by architects Moisei Ginsburg and Ignaty Milinis. Also a fine example of constructivism, it’s currently in a state of disrepair, locked down, and fairly difficult to get into - which is like a red flag to a bull for more adventurous types.

However, on July 30 the place will be opened up and people will be welcomed onto the roof to watch the film Faith and Truth.

Novinsky Blvrd . 25b1

Khrushchyovka courtyard

A courtyard located in the 9th experimental block of the Novye Cheremushki district will turn into an outdoor cinema this summer. Cheremushki is the first district where Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchyov decided to build the iconic Khrushchyovka apartment blocks in the 1950s. As a result, thousands of Russians were given their own pads after decades living huddled together in communal apartments known as kommunalka .

Cheremushki is the adapted film-version of Dmitry Shostakovich’s operetta and will be shown here on Aug. 6. The organizers of the multiple screenings - the Moskino cinema chain - say they will revive the Soviet tradition of neighbors meeting in courtyards for a good old tongue wag. There will also be a guided tour of the block.

Address to be confirmed at mos-kino.ru

Pioneers Palace

If you want a slice of the postwar Soviet avant-garde style, head to the Pioneers Palace at Vorobyevy Gory. Pioneers Palaces were youth centers for sport, creativity, and hobbies for Young Pioneers (a communist organization for children) during the Soviet Union. There were dance classes, martial arts, drawing, and many other activities.

To Love a Man , a movie about two young architects building a new town in Siberia, will be shown here on Aug. 22. There will also be a lecture about building experiments in the 20th century.

Kosygina St. 17b2

A secret place

The last cinema venue remains a secret. On Aug. 27 there will be a screening, but at the moment no one knows where. Information will appear on mos-kino.ru but those who attend all four screenings above will be able to guess the last location.

A talk about architecture and Soviet history also will be hosted here.

Read more: Relics of Constructivist Architecture in post-Soviet countries

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