Big Screen Takeover: Ireland’s Cinema King Expands to UK
Get ready, Brits, because Omniplex Cinema Group is about to flood your streets with a fresh wave of movie magic. The Irish‑owned giant swoops in, snapping up five former Empire Cinema spots after the chain hit administration.
What’s the Deal?
- Omniplex has grabbed five theatres: Birmingham, Ipswich, Sutton, Clydebank, and High Wycombe.
- The total cash investment tops £22 million – enough to rebrand a fleet of screens and caffeinate an entire generation.
- Grand openings are scheduled for December 2023, with more locations slated to pop up in 2024.
Legal Eagles Behind the Scene
In the legal arena, Clarke Willmott LLP came in clutch. Amanda French, a partner in the firm’s commercial property team, and her sidekick Ken MacLennan from insolvency, steered Omniplex through the paperwork maze.
So, tune in, Brits – Omniplex is putting the “cinema” back in “cinema‑therapy,” and the streets will buzz with popcorn very soon.
Omniplex Takes the Big Picture: Expanding to Great Britain
When Amanda French drops the news, she’s got a grin on her face and a big heart for the cinema community. “We’re delighted to have acted on this deal,” she says, rolling out the red carpet for five cinema locations that are now safe from shuttering. “And 150 jobs? That’s a win that feels like winning the whole box office jackpot.”
The Big Move: £22.5 Million of Investment
- Omniplex is pouring £22.5 million into buying and sprucing up existing theatres.
- Plan spans 18 months—the exact length a blockbuster usually takes to wrap up.
- With 38 cinemas already in Ireland, they’re gearing up to plant the flag in Great Britain’s lively screen‑queen scene.
Paul John Anderson’s Vision
Paul jumps in with a boom, “We’re thrilled to bring Omniplex to Great Britain.” He talks about a disciplined investment game, a passion for high‑grade cinema spots, and a clear aim: to keep the magic alive on the silver screen. He calls the expansion a “testimony to our unwavering drive for innovation, quality, and unforgettable movie moments.”
Why the Buzz?
Omniplex is famed for its state‑of‑the‑art projection tech and digital sound that let you feel every pillow case in the back row. Their dedication to perfecting the cinematic experience means more than just great popcorn; it’s about creating those “gotta‑return” vibes for every patron.
Clarke Willmott: The Legal Power‑Up
From the front office in Birmingham to a cozy corner in Taunton, Clarke Willmott’s legal squad played their part—tax wizard Chris Connors, employment guru Sharon Latham, and corporate sage Simon Smith. Together, they made sure the deal ticked all the legal boxes while keeping the momentum rolling.
And yes, this year marks the firm’s 135th anniversary. Talk about a long‑running success story.
So, when you next step into a refreshed Omniplex theatre in Great Britain, you’re stepping into a tale of tenacity, big investment, and a clear promise: grab your popcorn, and experience cinema like never before.
