In the UK, where it is the biggest operator with 127 cinemas, Cineworld plans to reopen the majority on 17 May, in line with government’s timetable for the easing of lockdown restrictions.
In most US states, cinemas can only be half full under Covid-19 restrictions, but this would allow Cineworld to operate profitably, according to its chief executive, Mooky Greidinger.
The company has also reached a multi-year agreement with Warner Bros under which Cineworld will be able to show new releases exclusively for 45 days in the US from next year.
The US makes up three-quarters of the London-listed firm’s business.