Cineplex Q2 Exhibition Earnings Down, Despite Higher Revenue

TORONTO -- Cineplex, Canada's biggest cinema chain, posted lower second quarter earnings, despite higher revenue from screening sequels to popular movie franchises. our editor recommends'Avatar,' 'Alice' help Cineplex post record resultsBooming Canadian b.o. lifts Cineplex Galaxy Toronto-based Cineplex, which operates 130 theatres nationwide with 1,351 screens, saw earnings to June 30 fall to $13.4 million, against a year-earlier $22.2 million, due mainly to a higher income tax charge and other one-time items. Overall revenue rose 6.6 percent to $258.4 million, box office revenue rose 5.2 percent to $151.1 million, concession revenue was up 5.5 percent to $76.2 million, and other revenues, including media advertising and gaming, rose 17 percent to $31 million. The biggest Q2 performers were Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Hangover 2, Fast Five, Thor and Bridesmaids. Cineplex said 3D, UltraAVX and IMAX movies comprised 26.8 percent of box office revenue during the latest quarter, against 25.9 percent in the year-earlier period. The Canadian exhibitor has pacted with rival Empire Theaters and the major Hollywood studios to install digital and 3D technology across its chain by late 2012 to take advantage of ticket price premiums on 3D movies. Related Topics International earnings