AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc. has reopened many of its theaters in recent weeks after a winter surge of coronavirus cases prompted the company to re-close several cinemas at the end of 2020 when sales fell 89%.
The world’s largest movie theater chain said roughly 527 out of its 589 domestic theaters were open as of Friday, including those in New York City. Cinemas in Los Angeles are expected to open shortly, Chief Executive Adam Aron said Wednesday. Internationally, only around 78 out of its 356 theaters were open, according to the company.
Cinema operators were among the businesses hardest hit by the spread of the coronavirus. Executives temporarily closed down theaters last year and have operated with limited capacities as government officials permit. Some consumers worry about visiting indoor spaces for business or recreation.
Meanwhile, home streaming has boomed during the pandemic, and Hollywood studios have delayed releasing films, sold them for online distribution or focused on streaming platforms.
This year, Leawood, Kan.-based AMC expects better results, with vaccines getting distributed and new movies slated for release in the coming months, Mr. Aron said.
