Almost half of independent cinemas are operating at a loss

47% of independent cinemas, film festivals and exhibitors are operating at a loss, according to a new survey by the Independent Cinema Office (ICO).

38% of respondents said they need further support to cover loss of income, with 24% adding they won't survive into 2022. 

The ICO said the results show reopening “continues to be a very risky operating environment”.

“Cinemas are trying to find a balance between safe facilities for audiences and viable operations of the cinema. There are challenges in making venues both safe and welcoming again.”

There is a silver lining: through online programming and collaboration with independent distributors, cinemas have shown more indepedently released films this year.