PVR Inox

Cinepolis, the Mexican cinema giant, is targeting strong double-digit revenue growth in its Indian operations this year, banking on a robust lineup of Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional films to lure audiences back to theatres. The company is also expanding its footprint, aiming to open 20–25 new screens across the country. Devang Sampat, Managing Director of Cinepolis India, said that this year’s impressive slate of films—spanning major Hollywood titles like Jurassic World: Rebirth and F1—combined with regional and Hindi-language blockbusters, could significantly boost footfall. However, theatre attendance still remains roughly 20% below pre-pandemic levels. “Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional cinema are all showing strength this year,” Sampat noted, adding that aggressive marketing collaborations with shopping malls and production studios will be key to driving admissions. Cinema chains are facing intensified competition from digital streaming platforms, live sports, and concerts, yet Cinepolis remains optimistic. Globally, the company operates 6,800 screens, with 485 in India alone. While Sampat declined to share 2024 revenue or profit figures, he stated that the chain has traditionally witnessed annual growth in the high single-digit to low double-digit range—excluding pandemic years. As per industry reports, Cinepolis generated ₹13.46 billion (approx. $156.6 million) in revenue for FY24, marking a 31% increase year-over-year. It also recorded a net profit of ₹321 million, its first annual profit in over five years. Meanwhile, rival PVR Inox, the largest multiplex operator in India, is expected to grow its revenue by around 18% in the current fiscal year. The company is planning to expand further by adding 100–110 screens to its network, which already exceeds 1,700. Analysts project that India’s multiplex industry will see a 20%–25% revenue surge in FY25, powered by high-profile releases like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Rajinikanth’s Coolie, and Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1, according to Shobit Singhal, a research analyst at Anand Rathi. Source: Reuters