Vue Entertainment, part of Vue International, has acquired the two-site cinema circuit Showtime Cinemas in Ireland, with one site located in Ashbourne and the other located in Limerick.
The acquisition continues Vue’s successful growth strategy; taking the UK & Ireland portfolio to 89 sites and 854 screens. Vue already operates the highest grossing multiplex in Ireland with 14 screens at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre.
Vue will take over the operation of the cinemas on 2 July and will officially re-open the doors to customers on 6 July.
Kevin Styles, Managing Director Vue UK & Ireland, commented ‘We are delighted to have been able to secure the Showtime Cinema sites and with it the opportunity to bring our premium big screen experience to more customers in Ireland. We look forward to welcoming the team to Vue and ensuring that the cinemas continue to be a major part of the out-of-home leisure choices in Ireland”
Patrick O’Sullivan, Founder of Showtime, commented: “Showtime Cinemas have built up a loyal and knowledgeable following among the cinema-going public in Ashbourne and Limerick. I am happy that our customers and staff will have access to Vue Entertainment’s expertise, customer experience and wide range of viewing choices.”
The Showtime cinemas are located in retail parks alongside well-known retail brands. The Ashbourne site is the only cinema in the region and has 6 screens whilst the Limerick site has 7 screens and is in the largest urban area in the south west of the Republic of Ireland.