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I am getting close to starting a new multiplex in our town. The one big question I have in finalizing the business plan is the average occupancy percentage (taking in consideration weekdays / weekends and different times). I have hear from one consultant 15 % and one 12 %. Does anyone have any information?

There are so many variables involved I'm not sure you can get an accurate answer.

What is the population of your community, what are you playing, what is your demographic, where is the theatre located, where is the nearest competition, etc, etc.?

I don't believe there is any "one-size-fits-all" statistic for theatres.

But welcome to the exhibition field and good luck. It's a wonderful business.

Keep in mind your responsibility to the community you serve.

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Bob Allen
The Old Showman

Quick demographics - 60,000 within 20 miles. Closest competition is about 35 miles away.

I paid a consultant to do a quick market study for this area and he seems to think that this locality would support a multiplex. I am pursuing this project primarily as a "quality of life" project for our community but I also would like to make some money.

Unless you are wealthy and don't need to make a living you better make danged sure this thing makes a buck or your personal quality of life will be vastly poopified.

60,000 with no competition justifies a mini-multi no problemo.

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Michael Hurley
Impresario

A good rule of thumb is to figure that 10% of the population in a 15 to 20 mile radius if there is no other competition will be people who will be semi-regular moviegoers.

So the question becomes at your projected ticket price, per cap and expenses will appox 5,000 people a week cover it with some reasonable return for you.

[This message has been edited by muviebuf (edited February 24, 2004).]

I would guess,if your population and competition figures are correct,a sixplex or 8 plex would be ideal.It should gross over $1.2 million boxoffice yearly,plus maybe $450 concessions.Real rough guesses,but I book a similar situation.My estimates are probably on the conservative side.
Good luck!