Kinepolis Group has signed an agreement to acquire Emagine Entertainment’s operations in the United States, marking a continued expansion of its international cinema portfolio. The acquisition, expected to be completed by the end of the year, will add 14 theatres representing 177 screens and 18,000 seats across Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Emagine welcomes approximately 6 million visitors annually and generates nearly $129 million in revenue.
The theatres feature recliner seating and include Premium Large Format auditoriums under the EMX and Super EMX banners. EMX auditoriums offer wall-to-wall screens with 4K laser projection and Dolby Atmos sound, while Super EMX auditoriums provide an expanded screen size and 64-channel Dolby Atmos sound. Emagine also provides support services to additional cinemas in Minnesota and Colorado, as well as Emagine Woodhaven and The Riviera in Michigan, which operate under third-party brand licensing agreements.
The deal is at at a transaction value of $105 million for 100% of Emagine’s business. An additional earn-out of up to $15 million is linked to the performance of the US box office in 2025. Based on 2024 results, Emagine is expected to contribute an EBITDAL of $19.6 million, with the last twelve months’ EBITDAL amounting to $20.3 million at the end of September.
The acquisition will be financed through an incremental EUR 100 million committed term loan under Kinepolis’ existing credit facility. Kinepolis plans to retain the Emagine brand and maintain continuity for customers, while evaluating integration needs for employees and stakeholders.
Kinepolis currently operates 108 cinemas worldwide, offering 1,137 screens and more than 200,000 seats. Through this acquisition, the company strengthens its presence in the US market and continues expanding the scale of its global cinema network.
KEY QUOTES
“With the acquisition of Emagine Entertainment, we are back on track with the execution of our expansion strategy since the pandemic. We do this with a high-quality asset in a market where we have had positive experiences with our Kinepolis concepts. The location and size of the cinemas make them a valuable addition to the Group’s portfolio, allowing us to expand our presence in the US market and strengthen our national structure. We are excited to welcome the new teams to the Kinepolis family.”
Eddy Duquenne, CEO, Kinepolis Group
“Kinepolis has a reputation for operating exceptionally well-run cinemas both in Europe and in North America. Their commitment to providing guests with an unforgettable movie experience makes them the ideal suitor to continue the stewardship of Emagine into the future.”
Paul Glantz, Chairman and CEO, Emagine Entertainment
