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RCM Advisory
July 2023

Business & Insolvency news | Empire Cinemas falls into administration

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Business & Insolvency news | Empire Cinemas falls into administration

7/jul/2023

The Empire Cinema chain has today entered administration, resulting in the loss of 150 jobs and the immediate closure of six cinemas.

The closed locations include Bishops Stortford, Catterick Garrison, Sunderland, Swindon, Walthamstow, and Wigan. Additionally, the cinema in Sutton Coldfield, which was already closed, will not reopen. Eight out of the 14 cinemas in the Empire Cinema group will remain open. These cinemas are located in Birmingham, Clydebank, High Wycombe, Ipswich, Sutton, Bath, and Cheltenham. If you have any gift cards or guest passes, you can still use them at these open cinemas.

The administrators have attributed the closures to various factors, including the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising inflation, and the cost of living crisis. These challenges have significantly affected the business of the Empire Cinema chain.

Empire Cinema Group is not the only movie theatre chain facing difficulties. Cineworld, the world's second-largest cinema operator, also experienced financial struggles. However, Cineworld is expected to exit bankruptcy this month after filing for bankruptcy in the United States last year. The chain faced debt and low audience numbers as it emerged from the pandemic.

Are you concerned that your business is stagnating and struggling with rising costs? Take professional advice at the earliest sign of stress. We can offer you a free consultation to discuss your options.