Cineplex Entertainment (TSX: CGX) plans to open a new entertainment complex in Abbotsford in 2012, the company announced Thursday.
The company said Cineplex Odeon Abbotsford and VIP Cinemas will feature 11 screens and 1,950 seats. It is scheduled to begin construction this fall and open next spring.
Cineplex communications director Kyle Moffat said a key highlight of the complex is the three planned VIP cinemas, which he said are the first ones in B.C. The VIP cinemas, he said, are adult only and feature a separate entrance and a private concession stand.
“There is a licensed lounge so you can go and enjoy a drink before you sit down for your movie and then we also have in-seat service,” he said. “So, you go in, sit down, and one of our cast members will come up and take your order – so if you wanted popcorn and a soft drink, they would take your order and bring your order right to your seat so you don’t have to go to the concession stand.”
The VIP experience, he said costs $5 more than the regular cinema, but has been well-received in Cineplex’s three Ontario cinemas that feature the approach.
“People like the in-seat service; it’s a really big perk,” he said. “Reserved seating is big as well because people can pick where they want to sit in the theatre.”
He added the seats are also larger and more comfortable than a typical cinema.
As to why Cineplex picked Abbotsford, Moffat pointed to the community’s growth.
“It’s definitely a growing community and if you look at the retail development we’re going into, it’s definitely a great fit for us,” he said.