Peter Rabbit delivers Cineworld weekend bounce as UK screens reopen | Economic news

Peter Rabbit’s new film has helped British cinema chain Cineworld enjoy a better-than-expected reopening weekend, the company said.

Cinemas, as well as indoor hospitality venues, reopened after the lockdown a week ago, subject to social distancing and face mask rules.

Chains such as Cineworld, Odeon and Vue have been closed for much of the past year, putting them under enormous financial pressure and leaving thousands of workers on leave or facing an uncertain future.

Cineworld said it had “enjoyed a strong UK opening weekend led by the success of Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway” although it has not released comparative sales figures .

“This weekend’s performance exceeded our expectations as customers were eager to come back to the movies and enjoy the full movie experience, including traditional popcorn which led to strong franchise revenues,” said declared the group.

Cineworld also said that 97% of its theaters in the United States are open again while elsewhere in the world its screens in Poland and Israel are due to reopen at the end of the coming week, and most will be open again. ‘by the end of the month.

Shares rose 3% during the update.

Managing Director Mooky Greidinger said: “We are delighted to see our cinemas back in business in the US and UK and to welcome moviegoers back to the big screen for a selection of exciting and complete films.

“We are particularly pleased with the warm welcome our employees have received and the positive comments from returning customers.

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“With the releases next week of Cruella and A Quiet Place 2, we expect next weekend’s results to be solid.

“When combined with improved consumer confidence and the success of …