Todd Halstead, Cinema United’s Director of Government Relations and Independent Theatre Owner Engagement, received CinéShow’s inaugural Byron Berkley Leadership Award at CinéShow 2026 in Dallas, Texas. Halstead is a true leader in the exhibition industry, and he played a vital role in launching CinéShow and building Cinema United of Mid-America into a strong regional group. Halstead’s work spearheading Cinema United’s Independent Theatre Owners Coalition (ITOC) has helped independent owners and operators around the world succeed.
Receiving an award named after Berkley, a true industry legend, clearly means a great deal to Halstead. When Berkley was honored with CinéShow’s Vision Award in 2023, Halstead wrote in Boxoffice magazine, “He’s been my very close colleague, valued industry leader, respected adviser, valued mentor, and most especially my very dear friend. ln my lifetime I’ve known very few people who are universally admired and respected and without exception held in the highest regard.”
On behalf of the entire Cinema United staff and its members around the world, we congratulate Todd on this tremendous honor.
[Left to right: Matt Shapiro, Lou DiGioia, Todd Halstead, Byron Berkley, Matt Pollock and Mitch Neuhauser]
Cinema United’s Todd Halstead traveled to Fayetteville, Georgia to meet with the exhibition community at this year’s ShowSouth convention. The event was held at Trilith Studios for the first time, and the move, combined with great programming, resulted in enthusiastic attendees and an important gathering for the industry:
Interview with American International Concession Products, Corp. (AICP)
Headquarters: Charlotte, NC
Interviewee: Stephen Sciortino, VP of Sales & Owner
How would you describe AICP and its role in theatrical exhibition?
American International Concession Products, Corp. (AICP) provides strategic sales solutions tailored to the movie theatre and alternative entertainment channels. We partner with leading CPG brands to drive distribution, optimize product assortments, and deliver data-driven analysis backed by tremendous industry knowledge and category expertise. We design and build customized single-line queue solutions that help our customers improve flow, enhance the guest experience, and drive revenue and profit. Additionally, we offer premium blankets to create incremental revenue opportunities for our operator partners
What’s new at your company this year?
One of the biggest highlights for AICP this year has been the continued expansion of our single-line queue solutions, where we not only design but also build customized systems that help operators improve guest flow while driving measurable revenue and profit growth.
Did you launch or showcase anything new at CinemaCon 2026?
Yes, at CinemaCon 2026 debuted new CPG brands from one of our industry-leading partners, expanding the portfolio of proven products available to theatre operators. We’re also continuing to evolve our single-line queue solutions, showcasing new ways our customized designs help operators enhance the guest experience while driving incremental revenue and profit. We’re excited to connect with partners and demonstrate how these innovations create measurable impact at the theatre level.
What recent innovations or projects are you most excited for?
Yes, we’re actively engaged in multiple initiatives with Cinema United members, including our ongoing partnerships with NCG Cinemas and Santikos Entertainment. Our customized single-line queue solutions have been implemented across numerous locations within both circuits, with continued expansion in progress. These installations are designed to optimize concession flow, elevate the guest experience, and generate measurable revenue and profit growth for our theatre partners.
How does your company engage with local communities – either where you’re headquartered or in partnership with cinema exhibitors across the country?
We support and engage local communities and exhibitors by partnering closely with theatre operators to implement solutions that enhance both operational performance and the overall guest experience. Through customized single-line queue installations, curated CPG assortments, and incremental revenue programs like premium blankets, we help exhibitors strengthen their financial performance while better serving their local audiences.
What industry trends are shaping your work right now?
Right now, our work is being shaped by evolving consumer preferences and the need for theatres to maximize every guest interaction. Trending CPG products — especially recognizable, high-velocity brands — continue to drive excitement and incremental spend at concession. At the same time, operators are increasingly open to new revenue streams, such as premium blankets, that enhance comfort while generating incremental profit. Equally important is helping our theatre partners understand the power of impulse purchasing. By implementing customized single-line queue systems, we create controlled, high-visibility merchandising environments that naturally encourage add-on purchases, increasing per-cap revenue while improving traffic flow and the overall guest experience.
How is your company helping cinema operators evolve?
AICP helps cinema operators evolve by combining strategic product partnerships with operational innovation. We introduce high-performing, recognizable CPG brands that drive incremental concession revenue while using data-driven analysis and deep industry knowledge to optimize assortments and performance. At the same time, we design and build customized single-line queue systems that improve traffic flow, create structured impulse-buying opportunities, and increase per-cap spend. By also developing new revenue streams — such as premium blankets, we help operators enhance the guest experience while strengthening overall profitability in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.
What makes your company or team unique?
What truly sets our team apart is our genuine, hands-on commitment to our customers. We prioritize exceptional service and focus on delivering solutions that create real, measurable value for each operator we partner with. Our approach is built on trust, responsiveness, and long-term relationship building, ensuring that our customers view us not just as a vendor, but as a strategic partner invested in their success.
How long have you participated in CinemaCon, and what keeps you coming back?
AICP has proudly participated in CinemaCon since the very beginning, dating back to the Showest days at Bally’s. Our longstanding involvement reflects our deep commitment to the exhibition industry and the relationships that drive it. We continue to come back each year because we strongly believe in the importance of this conference, what it represents for our industry, the collaboration it fosters, and the meaningful connections it creates with our partners. CinemaCon remains an essential platform for innovation, alignment, and strengthening the future of theatrical exhibition.
We are writing to you in our capacity as the leadership of Cinema United, the world’s largest trade organization representing the global theatrical exhibition business. We write to encourage you both to meet in the immediate future and discuss all possible avenues for resolving the state of California’s pending challenge to Paramount’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.
Theatrical exhibition is a Main Street industry. A night at the cinema not only benefits the movie studios and theatre owners, but it also benefits nearby restaurants, coffee shops, bars and shopping frequented by moviegoers. From family-owned independent theatres to vibrant mid-size circuits to the world’s largest theatre chains, Cinema United members are cultural and economic drivers in communities across this great nation. Our members have been partnering with Paramount and Warner Bros. for over a century to provide movie fans of all ages with the unparalleled experience of a movie on the big screen. We look forward to strengthening and growing that proud tradition for generations to come. Movie theatres are also undeniably a part of the fabric of this nation. In just the twelve states represented in the litigation we have 196 members doing business. The majority of those are independent or family-owned theatres: 130 operate fewer than ten screens; 90, with less than five screens; and 30 of those members operate single-screen theatres.
Our industry is familiar with the impact of legacy studio consolidation on moviegoers and exhibition, and those facts are well documented. As a result, all relevant parties understand the enduring value of the theatrical experience not only to our culture, but to the overall economy and the financial success of films themselves. At the same time, we have remained open to tangible and enforceable guardrails that can offer our industry some measure of certainty in the face of an evolving and otherwise challenging future. That is why we have engaged, in good faith, with both the coalition of State Attorneys General and Paramount.
As you both know, we believe any resolution of the current situation must ensure four core elements, which are essential to the long-term strength of the entertainment industry:
A long-term commitment to maintain or expand wide-release theatrical movie production that is supported by a meaningful period of theatrical exclusivity, fully marketed, and promoted in theatres of all sizes.
Provisions ensuring that the merger will not cause an increase in rental terms, so that theatre owners, and in turn, moviegoers, do not bear the brunt of the cost of this transaction, particularly independent theatres across the United States.
Enforceable safeguards to ensure broad access to films for moviegoers and theatres of all sizes that is not conditioned on requirements that impede theatre owners from making business decisions that are responsive to their communities’ preferences and the broader marketplace realities that many theatre owners face today.
And finally, continued access, under reasonable conditions and precedents, to the valuable and vast film catalogues of both Paramount and Warner Bros.
Today, our industry has the wind at its back. Studio partners are creating and distributing extraordinary films. Audiences across generations are responding with enthusiasm. Theatre owners are continuing to reinvest in their cinemas and build remarkable experiences for moviegoers. Movies are once again at the center of our shared culture. But none of that can be taken for granted. Global exhibition believes in a bold future for this industry, but reaching our full potential requires working together.
For many in our industry, the current environment is marked by disruption and uncertainty. That is why we believe that it is incumbent upon both of you to meet in good faith to discuss a resolution that would provide robust protections and serve the entire industry. In fact, it is the next logical step. Our goal remains a resolution that puts this industry on a positive path to continued success, not just in the near-term, but for generations to come. As has been the case since the outset, we stand ready to assist in any way we can. However, we urge you both to take the steps necessary to explore a meaningful resolution of the current situation as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Michael O’Leary President & CEO, Cinema United Washington, DC
Mike Bowers (Chair of the Board) President & CEO, Harkins Theatres Scottsdale, AZ
Wanda Gierhart (Vice Chair) EVP & Chief Marketing and Content Officer, Cinemark USA, Inc. Plano, TX
Rob Lehman (Treasurer) President & COO, Santikos Entertainment San Antonio, TX
Bo Chambliss (Secretary) President, Georgia Theatre Company Saint Simons Island, GA
Eduardo Acuna CEO, Regal Entertainment Group Knoxville, TN
Robert Bagby President & CEO, B&B Theatres Liberty, MO
Becky Dupuis CEO/Owner, Polson Theatres, Inc. Polson, MT
Eddy Duquenne CEO, Kinepolis Group Ghent, Belgium
Sean Gamble President & CEO, Cinemark USA, Inc. Plano, TX
Paul Gunsky President & CEO, CineLux Theatres San Jose, CA
John Henrich General Counsel, Regal Entertainment Group Knoxville, TN
Ellis Jacob President & CEO, Cineplex Entertainment LP Toronto, ON, Canada
Greg Marcus Chairman, President & CEO, Marcus Theatres Milwaukee, WI
Lauren McChesney Co-Owner, Shankweiler’s Drive-In Orefield, PA
Todd Vradenburg President & CEO, Cinema Association of CA/NV Los Angeles, CA
Phil Zacheretti Founder, President & CEO, Phoenix Theatres Entertainment Knoxville, TN
Official statement from Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United:
“Moviegoers across generations made this weekend one for the record books. Our industry is at its best when there is something for everyone to see on the big screen, and this year we are seeing what happens when the innovation and creativity on display in amazing movie theatres across the country and around the world is combined with a great slate of films.”
From Variety: A powerful one-two punch from “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “The Odyssey” has fueled the biggest collective weekend in box office history, with roughly $430 million across all movies in the marketplace.
Prior to this, the top three weekends were led by “Avengers: Endgame” ($402 million collectively), 2018’s “Avengers: Infinity War” ($314 million collectively) and 2015’s “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” ($313 million collectively). It’s a particularly exciting benchmark for the recently married Tom Holland and Zendaya, who star in “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “The Odyssey.”
Washington, DC — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) alongside Representatives Mike Carey (OH-15) and David Kustoff (TN-08) today introduced the Supporting Cinema Renewal, Enhancement, and Enriching Neighborhoods (SCREEN) Act, legislation to encourage private investment in movie theaters and help revitalize the Main Streets and commercial districts they support.
The SCREEN Act would establish a 30% federal tax credit for qualified movie theater revitalization projects. Eligible improvements include new seating, projection and sound systems, HVAC upgrades, and accessibility improvements. The credit would apply to traditional theaters that have been in operation for at least five years, with a lifetime per theater cap of $250,000 for theaters with three screens or fewer, $375,000 for theaters with four to nine screens, and $500,000 for theaters with ten or more screens. The credit would be available for qualifying investments made through December 31, 2030.
“Strong Main Streets depend on strong local businesses, and movie theaters help bring people into our downtowns where they support restaurants, shops, and other small businesses,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “As theaters work to modernize and compete, they deserve the opportunity to invest in their future. The SCREEN Act encourages private investment, strengthens local economies, creates jobs, and helps preserve these important community gathering places for future generations.”
“Movie theaters are more than just places to see a film. They support local jobs, bring people into our downtowns, and give families a place to spend time together,” said Congressman Mike Carey. “The SCREEN Act will help theaters invest in needed upgrades so they can continue serving their communities, supporting small businesses, and contributing to local economies for years to come.”
This legislation is supported by Cinema United, Marquee Cinemas, Saunders Theatre Properties, and Malco Theatres:
“This timely and important legislation will spur re-investment in one of America’s great Main Street enterprises – the local cinema. Jobs will be created, including local contractors and vendors that do the work, surrounding businesses in the community will benefit, and the result will be a better experience for fans that love seeing their favorite movie on the big screen. We applaud the sponsors of this bill. Because of their leadership, towns of all sizes, in all 50 states, will see a tangible and positive cultural and economic impact in their local communities.” – Michael O’Leary, President and CEO, Cinema United
“On behalf of our team at Orchard 14 in New Hartford, NY, and all 13 of our locations, I want to thank Representative Tenney for introducing the SCREEN Act. Our New Hartford theatre employs 44 full and part-time team members and has been proud to serve this community since 2005. Like many in our industry, we’re continuing to invest in the guest experience even as costs have risen across the board. The SCREEN Act would help us get there faster, bringing the best possible picture quality to our guests and reinforcing the long-term vitality of movie theatres in communities like New Hartford. We’re grateful to Representative Tenney for her leadership on this issue and for supporting exhibition.” – James Cox, Chief Operating Officer, Marquee Cinemas
“Small-town movie theaters are often one of the few places where families, friends, and neighbors can gather and share experiences together. As the owner of four independently owned Ohio theaters, I know how challenging it has become to keep these venues updated while facing rising costs. I have invested millions of dollars into preserving and improving our theaters because I believe small communities deserve exceptional movie-going experiences. The SCREEN Act will help independent theaters continue investing in the places and people we proudly serve, and I thank Representative Carey and the bill’s sponsors for championing this important effort.” – Donna Saunders, Owner and Operator of Saunders Theatre Properties
Official statement from Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United:
The Cinerama Dome has been a treasured and important landmark for movie fans and the entire film community for over six decades. On behalf of all of exhibition, we are excited to see that under the leadership of two of exhibition’s strongest champions, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Alamo Drafthouse, this iconic destination will once again be filled with audiences of all ages. The timing could not be better with moviegoers making clear this year that they love the unique experience of seeing a movie on the big screen. Congratulations to Sony and Alamo and to the people who love movies.
Renovations on the dome will start next month and continue until early 2028. Sony said the renovations will honor “its historic legacy and singular moviegoing experience,” leaving the iconic red and blue exterior lettering intact. The restoration will also preserve its immersive large-format curved-screen presentation.
Sony also has plans to reopen the adjacent 14-screen theater complex that was formerly the ArcLight Cinemas. The theater will offer dine-in services as well as curated programming. The theaters will be equipped to show premium formats such as 35mm, 70mm and 4K laser projection.
Statement from Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United:
“Movie fans across the country and around the world have been showing up to see The Odyssey in every conceivable format, demonstrating the great demand of seeing grand-scale entertainment like this on the big screen. We congratulate Christopher Nolan, Emma Thomas, and the entire Universal team on this incredible success and thank them for their tireless commitment to the theatrical experience.”
How would you describe GDC Technology and its role in theatrical exhibition?
GDC Technology is a total digital cinema solutions provider and system integrator. GDC proudly develops, manufactures, and sells a range of cinema media servers suitable for both projectors and LED cinema displays. Our offerings also include reliable content storage systems, high-quality cinema audio processors, and comprehensive cinema enterprise software, such as theatre management and advanced automation systems, all designed to serve the global cinema industry. GDC is a licensee of the DTS Surround and DTS:X with IAB, the object-based immersive sound technology from DTS, Inc., for the development of its media servers and cinema audio processors.
What’s new at your company this year?
We had two major highlights at CinemaCon 2026. First, the world’s first All-in-One Media Server for seamless 2D/3D HDR and HFR playback; used in 70% of LED cinemas worldwide (as of Jan 2026). Second GDC launched its new 64-channel DTS:X for IAB Cinema Processors. It’s pioneering technology for PLF auditoriums, offering moviegoers an immersive, emotionally rich listening experience.
What industry trends are shaping your work right now?
At GDC, our work is shaped by several major industry trends that are transforming the cinema experience. The most exciting trend we’re seeing is the shift towards HDR LED screens. It’s an inspiring development that’s captivating everyone’s attention. Using our media server technology and LED cinema solutions, we are directly addressing the industry’s need for improved image quality, higher-quality audio, greater efficiency, greater flexibility, and consumer-focused experiences.
How is your company helping cinema operators evolve?
At GDC, we assist cinema operators in evolving by providing advanced LED cinema solutions and DCI-certified media servers that deliver premium visual experiences audiences can’t get at home. Our intelligent automation suite allows remote circuit management, lowering costs and reducing downtime. We transform auditoriums into flexible entertainment centers for concerts, esports, and events, boosting revenue throughout the year. With real-time monitoring and energy-efficient LED technology, we enable operators to deliver flawless performances, minimize their carbon footprint, and foster sustainable growth in a rapidly changing industry.
What makes your company or team unique?
At GDC, we’re truly proud of what makes us special: our strong dedication to dependability and nurturing long-lasting relationships. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, we go beyond simply selling technology—we invest in building meaningful connections with exhibitors all around the world. Our focus on customer needs drives innovative solutions that address real operational challenges, and our global presence means you always have local support. Above all, we are passionate movie-lovers ourselves, inspired by a genuine love for cinema. This blend of enterprise-strength reliability, personalized care, and shared enthusiasm for the big screen makes us more than just a vendor—we’re your trusted partner.
How long have you participated in CinemaCon, and what keeps you coming back?
At GDC, we’ve been proudly participating in CinemaCon for over ten years as key sponsors. What makes us feel so excited to return each year is the wonderful chance to connect face-to-face with our global cinema family. It’s a special place where we listen to exhibitors, learn about their changing needs, and reveal innovative solutions that help shape the future of movie exhibitions. Most importantly, CinemaCon is a joyful celebration of our shared love for the moviegoing experience. It’s a cherished tradition that reaffirms our dedication to supporting a lively and thriving cinema industry every year.
In the lead-up to the Fourth of July holiday, Northwoods Theater Group, an affiliate of Emagine Entertainment, debuted its newest crown jewel, the Emagine Parker, located in the Denver metro area. Cinema United’s Andrew Stewart was there to help celebrate the ribbon cutting event on Tuesday, June 30, along with Jon Goldstein, Owner of Northwoods Theater Group, Parker Mayor Joshua Rivero, and Paul Glantz, former CEO of Emagine Entertainment.
Officially now open to the public, the completely reimagined 32,000-square-foot entertainment destination features luxury heated recliners, premium large-format EMX auditoriums, immersive Dolby Atmos sound, 4K projection, expanded food and beverage offerings, a full-service bar, and the company’s first self-ordering guest experience. Goldstein said he wanted the theatre to be “a beautiful gathering place for the community, and since people in Colorado like to be outside, we tried to bring a little bit of the outside inside.”
The location’s entire design, accented by rich green hues and light hardwood floors throughout, is meant to bring the beauty of the state indoors. Its ties to the local area go beyond just decor; the theatre will help revitalize and grow the community.
“Truly I cannot say (enough) how appreciative we are of your investment into the community,” Rivero said at the event. “Movies are like those films you get from childhood, and you remember where you were when you saw them. I want those memories to be instilled in kids today.”
Rivero congratulated Emagine Parker as the newest spark to the community’s development, saying, “That dirt field will not be a dirt field for much longer with what you guys have done here. All of you working together are going to make West Main Street the gem that it should be.”
A special thank you to Melissa Boudreau, Chief Experience Officer for Northwoods Theater Group, and the entire team for their hospitality. Congratulations again on an incredible opening!
