Kinepolis Acquires Emagine Entertainment in Major U.S. Cinema Market Expansion

Belgium’s global cinema giant, Kinepolis Group, is making a major move. The company has agreed to acquire the operations of Emagine Entertainment. This deal significantly expands Kinepolis’s footprint in the United States. The transaction is expected to finalize before the end of 2025.

This acquisition marks Kinepolis’s first large-scale purchase since the pandemic. It continues their strategic growth in North America. According to Reuters, the deal underscores ongoing consolidation within the exhibition industry.

Strategic Expansion into the U.S. Market

Kinepolis will purchase 100% of Emagine’s business. The transaction carries a value of $105 million. An additional earn-out of up to $15 million is linked to 2025 box office performance.

The deal adds 14 premium cinemas to the Kinepolis portfolio. This includes 177 screens and 18,000 seats. The locations are in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.

Emagine theaters are known for their luxury amenities. They feature recliner seats and premium large format screens. The chain welcomes approximately six million visitors annually.

Building a North American Powerhouse

This is not Kinepolis’s first North American venture. The group previously acquired Canada’s Landmark Cinemas in 2017. It also bought Michigan-based MJR Digital Cinemas in 2019.

Emagine will continue operating under its established brand name. This preserves its strong market identity. The existing management and teams will join the Kinepolis family.

The acquisition strengthens Kinepolis’s competitive position. It provides a larger, more diversified revenue stream. The company is financing the deal through a new €100 million term loan.

This acquisition solidifies Kinepolis’s position as a growing international exhibitor. The move brings a beloved U.S. chain under a global umbrella, promising continued investment in the premium movie-going experience. The Kinepolis acquisition of Emagine Entertainment signals strong confidence in the future of cinemas.

Info at your fingertips

How many screens is Kinepolis acquiring?

The deal includes 177 screens across 14 locations. These theaters are spread across four states in the Midwest.

Will Emagine theaters change their name?

No, the acquired locations will continue to operate under the Emagine Entertainment brand. Kinepolis plans to maintain the chain’s established market identity.

What is the total value of the acquisition?

The base transaction is valued at $105 million. An additional earn-out of up to $15 million is possible, tied to 2025 box office performance.

How does this affect the North American cinema landscape?

This continues a trend of industry consolidation. It strengthens Kinepolis’s presence in the region, following its earlier acquisitions of MJR and Landmark Cinemas.

What are Emagine’s premium cinema formats?

Emagine operates its own PLF brands, EMX and Super EMX. These feature large screens, 4K laser projection, and advanced Dolby Atmos sound systems.