Cinema exhibitors from around the world have gathered for CineEurope - the annual convention of the International Union of Cinemas (UNIC) - to celebrate the cinema-going experience. To coincide with the event, UNIC has also released its annual report (attached), setting out the latest data on the sector’s performance across member territories and providing an insight into the main strategic issues facing cinema exhibition.
Looking forward to the convention, Phil Clapp, President of UNIC, commented:
“At a time of rapid change in the cinema industry, CineEurope will provide an invaluable opportunity for us all to stay abreast of latest trends. We are absolutely delighted that this year’s event will be the biggest convention of its kind to have taken place in Europe. We wish everyone a warm welcome to Barcelona.”
“The Annual report we release today illustrates just how rapidly international cinema exhibition is evolving. The impact of digital technology, alternative content and increased flexibility across the value chain – as well as challenging economic conditions in some member countries – all contribute to a highly dynamic cinema market. Ensuring that exhibitors are able to remain competitive sometimes involves assisting governments in designing framework conditions that benefit not just cinemas but also the entire film industry. It is a role which is even more important during such dynamic times of change.”
In headline terms, total admissions across UNIC territories in 2012 declined by 0.65 per cent compared to the previous year. At the same time, box office increased by 3 per cent. At the end of 2012, 78 per cent of screens across UNIC territories had converted to digital technology. The most successful films in European theatres during the year were: Skyfall; The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey; The Dark Knight Rises; Ice Age: Continental Drift and The Avengers.
