Press Archives | Cinema United

October 1, 2026

North American Theatre Owners Have Reinvested $2.7 Billion In Their Cinemas Over The Past Two Years

New Cinema Investment Yearly Update Highlights Exhibition’s Ongoing Commitment to Innovation and Investment in the Consumer Experience

Eight Largest Circuits Alone Have Totaled $1.8 Billion in Reinvestment Over Two Years

WASHINGTON, D.C. and LOS ANGELES, CA – October 1, 2026 – On the heels of a spectacular summer box office season, Cinema United issued today its updated Cinema Investment Report. It highlights the North American exhibition industry’s reinvestment into movie theatres, with $1.2 billion going towards upgrades and innovations this past year, pushing total reinvestment over the past two years to $2.7 billion. The announcement comes at the close of another successful Fall Summit in L.A., where theatre owners gathered together for four high-impact days of connection, insight, and industry momentum. United in its support of a bright future, exhibition demonstrates through these reinvestments a clear financial commitment to creating premium entertainment experiences that audiences everywhere crave.

The updated industry total includes the eight largest domestic circuits’ commitment to reinvest $840 million this past year, bringing their total reinvestment over the past two years to $1.8 billion. In September 2024, those same eight companies had pledged more than $2.2 billion to modernize and upgrade theatres of all sizes over a three-year period.

“From the world’s largest circuits to independent theatres on Main Streets across this great nation, theatre owners have shown how much they believe in the future of the big screen, and 2026’s strong box office proves that commitment is paying off,” says Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United. “When a theatre reinvests in itself, everyone wins—moviegoers get a better experience, studios get a stronger platform, local businesses benefit, and contractors get the work that comes with it. Cinema United members are reaffirming that there is nothing like seeing a movie on a big screen. Every investment in a movie theater is an investment in the community it serves, which is why moviegoing will remain essential for generations to come.”

From Cinema United, the trade association representing more than 63,000 screens worldwide, the new Cinema Investment Report comes at a time when audiences of all ages are enthusiastically embracing the big screen experience. In addition to showcasing the capital investments in theatres, the report also highlights the vendors who led several of the renovation efforts, creating jobs and driving local economies.

“The benefit to communities from movie theatres is unmatched by any other premier entertainment experience, and that is why they remain so valued in major cities and small towns worldwide,” says Mike Bowers, CEO of Harkins and Chair of Cinema United. “These investments continue our industry’s long history of ensuring that every moviegoing experience is a premium one.”

Cinema United members profiled in the report include AMC, Cinemark, Harkins, Emagine, Megaplex, CineLux, Classic Cinemas, EPIC Theatres, BAM Rose Cinemas, Hoyts, and Major Cineplex.

Partners mentioned include Okland Construction, Amcon, and D.L.B. Metal Inc.

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 33,000 movie screens in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, with an additional more than 30,000 screens in 81 countries internationally. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

September 29, 2026

Mitch Neuhauser To Step Down As Managing Director of CinemaCon Following 2028 Show

Following 19 Years Managing the World’s Premier Exhibition Showcase, Neuhauser to Retire on June 30, 2028

Matt Pollock to Assume Co-Managing Director Position to Ensure Seamless Transition

WASHINGTON, D.C. and LOS ANGELES, CA – September 29, 2026 – Cinema United, the world’s largest trade association representing global exhibition, announced today that Mitch Neuhauser will retire following CinemaCon® 2028. Neuhauser has overseen the growth and development of exhibition’s premier annual event, CinemaCon, since 2009. Under his leadership, the show continues to grow in popularity and evolve as the world’s greatest platform for exhibition and distribution to come together and celebrate the magic of movies on the big screen.

“It is impossible to overstate what Mitch means to Cinema United and the entire exhibition community. He is synonymous with CinemaCon, and it simply would not have become the spectacular event that it is without him,” said Cinema United President and CEO, Michael O’Leary. “Mitch loves this industry, the people in exhibition and the studios, and the experience of seeing a movie in a theatre. His vision and leadership will be missed, but I want to join everyone in the entertainment industry in congratulating him on an amazing career.”

“Working in this incredible industry for the past 45 years has been the dream of a lifetime, capped off by bringing CinemaCon to fruition in 2011,” Neuhauser said. “Our industry is unlike any other. We bring people together from all around the world, and that has inspired me across all these years. Knowing that Michael O’Leary and Cinema United are also recognizing the important contributions of Matt Pollock, who I’ve worked with for almost two decades, gives me great satisfaction. CinemaCon, Cinema United and the global theatrical industry will be in great hands when the baton is passed in 2028.”

Neuhauser began his career in 1981 with the Sunshine Group Worldwide, where he ultimately became Vice President following the company’s purchase in 1998 and oversaw ShowEast, Cinema Expo, CineAsia, and later ShoWest, beginning in 2001. Neuhauser joined Cinema United (formerly the National Association of Theatre Owners) in 2009 and spearheaded the transition from ShoWest to CinemaCon in 2011. Under his guidance, CinemaCon has become a global phenomenon drawing participants from around the world each year. Neuhauser served on the Board of Directors of the Will Rogers Motion Pictures Pioneers Foundation and received the Heart of Show Business Award from Variety of Southern California in 2018.

Cinema United also announced today that Matt Pollock will immediately assume the role of Co-Managing Director of CinemaCon and begin the transition of taking over the lead position in 2028.

“Matt is the perfect choice to assume this important role. He has all the qualities necessary to ensure that CinemaCon continues to grow and evolve into the future,” added O’Leary. “Making him Co-Managing Director today illustrates the confidence that I, along with the entire exhibition industry, have in Matt. I am also pleased he will work closely with Mitch through this important transition.”

Hosted by Cinema United, CinemaCon is the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition, with the 2027 show taking place April 12-15 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

About Cinema United

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 33,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 30,000 screens internationally. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org. Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn and X/Twitter.

September 29, 2026

Margot Robbie and Jason Blum Join Cinema United’s Filmmaker Leadership Council

Acclaimed Filmmakers Lend their Expertise and Passion in Support of Global Cinema

Formed to Advance and Champion the Theatrical Experience, Council is Led by Chair Jerry Bruckheimer and Vice Chair Emma Thomas

LOS ANGELES, CA – September 29, 2026 – Cinema United, the world’s largest exhibition trade association representing more than 63,000 movie screens worldwide, announced today that acclaimed filmmakers and Oscar® nominees Margot Robbie and Jason Blum have joined the Filmmaker Leadership Council, a strategic group of world-class producers and directors united in a single cause to champion the future of cinema worldwide. Robbie and Blum join council leaders Jerry Bruckheimer and Emma Thomas, and charter members Ryan Coogler, Brad Bird, Jason Reitman, and Celine Song.

“We are thrilled and honored to welcome two leaders like Margot and Jason to this influential group,” said Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United. “Margot is a global superstar and the voice of a generation who loves movies on the big screen. Jason is beloved by fans around the world for creating incredible—and scary—experiences in theatres. They are both well-known, fierce advocates of the theatrical experience. I want to thank them both for their commitment, and I look forward to working closely with them to advance this great industry together.”

“It’s an absolute honor to have Margot and Jason join the Filmmaker Leadership Council,” said Council Chair Jerry Bruckheimer. “Their combined impact on this industry is enormous, and I know they will help our efforts immensely.”

“For me, the magic of cinema starts with the cinema itself,” Robbie said. “Storytelling in this format can be incredibly powerful, and I truly believe movie theatres are essential to our art form. I couldn’t be more grateful and excited to be able to work with such a powerful group of creatives to continue to drive the theatrical experience forward.”

Blum added, “Movie theaters are where fans are made. Bold, creative voices are bringing young audiences back to the movies, and that’s exciting. Turning moviegoing into a habit takes all of us, and this Council gives us a way to do that together.”

The Filmmaker Leadership Council brings together some of the world’s most influential movie creators to work alongside Cinema United to provide vital feedback and recommendations on the most pressing issues facing theatrical exhibition today—including consolidation, sustainable windows, the promotion and marketing of the cinematic experience, and highlighting innovation and technology.

At CinemaCon 2026, Bruckheimer and Thomas spearheaded a popular keynote discussion with O’Leary, hosted by Matt Belloni, during which they addressed important industry topics and the future of the Council. Also at CinemaCon, Reitman, a fellow theatre owner as part of the Village Directors Circle and member of Cinema United, spoke during Cinema United’s Independent Theatre Owners Coalition (ITOC) event and spent time touring the trade show floor to meet with vendors and members alike. This week, Blum will speak to members of exhibition as part of a live conversation at Cinema United’s annual Fall Summit gathering in Los Angeles. It is part of the Council’s overall mission to strengthen relationships between the exhibition community and filmmakers, as well as to help rebuild the moviegoing audience through a series of private and public initiatives, such as CinemaCon and the Fall Summit.

Members of the Council meet quarterly to discuss key priorities and upcoming initiatives. Serving as Executive Director of the Filmmaker Leadership Council is Greg Foster, industry veteran and senior consultant for Cinema United.

Margot Robbie is a three-time Academy Award nominated actress and producer who has captivated global audiences with breakout performances alongside some of the most notable names in film. Robbie is currently in production on the Oceans Prequel for Warner Bros., which she is also producing under her LuckyChap banner. The film will be directed by Bradley Cooper, with an exciting ensemble to include: Cooper, Monica Barbaro, Wagner Moura, Josh Gad, Omar Sy, and George MacKay, among others. Earlier this year, Robbie starred in and produced Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights, which grossed over $240 million worldwide. In 2023, Robbie starred in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie as the titular role for Mattel and Warner Bros, which she also produced under her LuckyChap banner. The film grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide and was nominated for 8 Academy Awards. In 2022, Robbie starred in Damien Chazelle’s 1920s Hollywood drama, Babylon. Robbie received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in Jay Roach’s Bombshell, opposite Nicole Kidman and Charlize Theron. Prior to that and most notably, Robbie starred as Tonya Harding in I, Tonya and received an Academy Award nomination for her performance. Robbie also served as a producer on the film with LuckyChap. Other noteworthy performances include Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Mary Queen of Scots, Birds of Prey, The Suicide Squad, Suicide Squad, and The Wolf of Wall Street. LuckyChap’s projects across film, television, and theatre include Barbie, Wuthering Heights, Saltburn, Promising Young Woman, I, Tonya, My Old Ass, Sterling Point, Sirens, Maid, and 1536.

Three-time Oscar® nominee Jason Blum is the founder and CEO of Blumhouse Atomic Monster, a film, television and gaming company regarded as the driving force in horror. Following the merger of Jason Blum’s Blumhouse with James Wan’s Atomic Monster in January 2024, the combined company is responsible for more than $10 Billion in worldwide box office and has represented approximately 50% of the horror market in the last ten years. Blumhouse Atomic Monster is home to the highest number of ongoing franchises of any studio, including Halloween, The Conjuring, The Purge, The Black Phone, Annabelle, Paranormal Activity, The Exorcist, Insidious, The Nun, M3GAN, and Five Nights at Freddy’s, along with iconic films from cinematic visionaries including Jordan Peele’s Get Out, Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash and Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman. The company recently crossed $1 billion at the worldwide box office for 2026, the second year in a row, on the strength of just four films, among them, Curry Barker’s Obsession and Kane Parsons’ Backrooms, the highest-grossing releases in the history of Focus Features and A24, respectively. The company will close out the year with the highly anticipated Other Mommy, starring Oscar-winner Jessica Chastain and directed by Rob Savage, in theaters October 9, 2026, from Universal.

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

September 29, 2026

Cinema United Announces Important Leadership Promotions To Strengthen Advocacy, Industry Partnerships and Global Impact

Amanda Martin becomes SVP, External Affairs, and Erin Von Hoetzendorff is promoted to VP, Membership and Global Affairs

New roles reflect Cinema United’s growing commitment to serve exhibition worldwide

WASHINGTON, D.C. and LOS ANGELES — September 29, 2026 — Cinema United, the world’s largest trade association representing global exhibition, announced today two important leadership promotions. Amanda Martin will assume the newly created role of Senior Vice President, External Affairs, and Erin Von Hoetzendorff will be promoted to Vice President, Membership and Global Affairs. Both appointments reflect Cinema United’s continued investment in building an organization equipped to serve the full breadth of the exhibition industry, both domestically and abroad.

“As exhibition continues to evolve, Cinema United is evolving with it,” said Michael O’Leary, President & CEO of Cinema United. “These two well-deserved promotions will allow us to strengthen our partnerships across the entertainment ecosystem, deepen our advocacy on behalf of all theatre owners, and expand our engagement with international theatre owners, ensuring that every constituency we serve has a strong voice within our organization. Amanda and Erin are critical to our success, and in these new roles, they will have even greater impact on the direction and future of Cinema United.”

Amanda Martin, Senior Vice President, External Affairs

Amanda Martin, who served previously as the Chief of Staff since joining Cinema United in 2023, will become SVP, External Affairs. She will continue to serve as a senior member of Cinema United’s leadership team, leading the organization’s advocacy efforts and strategic partnerships across the filmed entertainment industry. In this role, Martin will grow and strengthen Cinema United’s relationships with allied organizations, coalitions and stakeholders central to the exhibition business and oversee the organization’s state government affairs function. Martin will also lead and shape all educational programming for Cinema United’s signature industry events, including CinemaCon and the Fall Summit. She will, along with CEO Michael O’Leary, continue to serve as a federal advocate before Congress and relevant federal agencies.

Erin Von Hoetzendorff, Vice President, Membership and Global Affairs

Erin Von Hoetzendorff, who first joined the organization in 2018, is being promoted to the position of VP, Membership and Global Affairs. In this capacity, Von Hoetzendorff will continue the excellent work she has done as the head of Membership Services and will also lead Cinema United’s expanded engagement with international theatre owners, building on the organization’s existing membership function to deliver substantive representation and support for exhibitors around the world. This role reflects Cinema United’s recognition that global exhibition is critical to the success of our industry, and that Cinema United is committed to helping elevate their voice as a key part of our advocacy on behalf of all theatre owners.

“Together, these roles will help Cinema United serve exhibition more completely and effectively than ever before,” O’Leary added. “One strengthens our connections across the industry itself and elevates our advocacy on behalf of our members; the other strengthens our connection to theatre owners around the world. Both are essential to how we grow and represent our members going forward.”

The new positions are effective immediately and represent Cinema United’s ongoing commitment to building an organization with the capability and reach to meet the needs of exhibition today and in the years ahead.

About Cinema United

September 22, 2026

Cinema United Releases Statement On Paramount Settlement

Statement from Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United:

“For nearly a year, and throughout multiple efforts to acquire the iconic Warner Bros. Studios, Cinema United has remained steadfast in its primary objective to safeguard theatres of all sizes across this great nation and around the world from the harms of legacy studio consolidation.

The agreement announced yesterday accomplishes many of exhibition’s objectives. The consent decree includes language on increased film production for five years, meaningful theatrical exclusivity and wide distribution, prohibitions on cost increases, and continued access to the catalogs of Paramount and Warner Bros. While no settlement can eliminate all risk from a merger of this size, these conditions will enable our industry to adapt and succeed in a rapidly changing media environment.

The State Attorneys General’s lawsuit and, now the consent decree, strongly validates that movie theatres are the beating heart of Main Street America and the entire U.S. film industry. Cinema United appreciates the efforts of both the State Attorneys General and Paramount to resolve the merger lawsuit. Our focus now shifts back to our bright future. For well over 100 years, global exhibition has worked closely with both Paramount and Warner Bros. to deliver amazing big screen experiences to fans around the world. We look forward to strengthening these historic partnerships to ensure that going to the movies remains the premier entertainment option for generations to come.”

August 20, 2026

CinemaCon August 2026 Vendor Spotlight: American International Concession Products, Corp.

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.

Where can members connect with AICP online?

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aicp-corp/

August 18, 2026

Cinema United Leadership Issues Joint Letter to State AGs and Paramount

Dear Attorney General Bonta and Mr. Ellison,

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

August 2, 2026

Cinema United Celebrates Record-Breaking Domestic Box Office Weekend

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.”

July 14, 2026

CinemaCon July 2026 Vendor Spotlight: GDC Technology

Interview with GDC Technology America, LLC

Headquarters: Los Angeles, CA

Interviewee: Tony Adamson, Senior Vice President

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.

Where can members connect with GDC online?

LinkedIn: @GDCTechnologyLimited @TricornePremiumLED
Instagram @gdctechnology
Other linkedin: http://linkedin.com/company/gdc-technology @gdc-technology

June 2, 2026

CinemaCon June 2026 Vendor Spotlight: C. Cretors and Company

Interview with C. Cretors and Company

Headquarters: Wood Dale, IL

Interviewee: Shelly Olesen, Vice President Sales and Marketing

How would you describe C. Cretors and Company and its role in theatrical exhibition?

In 1893 Charles Cretors’ imagination led to an invention, the first commercial popcorn machine. That invention brought innovations that led to an industry. As a fifth-generation family-owned USA manufacturer, we’re proud we revolutionized the concessions industry and continue to lead in that space today Whether we’re inventing the popcorn machine or perfecting the hot dog grill, you can find our technical innovation in everything from food service equipment to food processing systems.

What’s new at your company this year?

C. Cretors and Company is celebrating its 140th year of innovation in popcorn and concession equipment throughout 2026. The company is commemorating the milestone with special events and initiatives, including an anniversary celebration held at its Wood Dale, Illinois headquarters in May 2026.

Did you launch or showcase anything new at CinemaCon 2026?

At CinemaCon 2026, we showcased several new innovations, including energy-saving induction-heated popcorn machines, self-serve dispensing technology, and a hot dog roller grill featuring patent-pending removable rollers designed for easier and more efficient cleaning.

How does your company engage with local communities – either near your headquarters or in partnership with cinema exhibitors across the country?

Cretors equipment can be found in more than 150 countries, reflecting the company’s reputation for reliable engineering and serviceability. To ensure customers get the most from their machines, Cretors offers hands-on factory technical training, onsite training, and even a Snack Foods Processing short course at Texas A&M. At its Wood Dale, Illinois headquarters, Cretors hosts factory tours and educational visits, providing local students and community groups with insight into food production, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. These initiatives demonstrate Cretors’ commitment to both global partnerships and local community engagement.

How is your company helping cinema operators evolve?

We listen to their needs and help find solutions. Our success has always come from blending tradition with forward-thinking design. Honoring the past and engineering the future!

How long have you participated in CinemaCon, and what keeps you coming back?

Cretors has been exhibiting at CinemaCon since the first show in 2011. Prior to CinemaCon we exhibited at ShoWest starting in 1976, at Showrama in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s and the Theatre Owners of America convention starting in 1948. There is no better way to keep your thumb on the pulse of the industry.

Where can members connect with Cretors online?

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/c.-cretors-&-co./
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ccretorsandcompany/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Cretors1885