Local movie theater closes; here’s who’s moving in
MACEDONIA, Ohio (WJW) — The Macedonia Commons Cinemark movie theater is closing after nearly 25 years, but a new family-owned theater chain is taking over and planning to invest millions, city officials announced Thursday.
“While we’re sad to see Cinemark go, we’re excited to announce that B&B Theatres will be investing $6 million to $7 million into the existing Cinemark building to bring Macedonia audiences a new, upgraded theater experience,” reads a Thursday Facebook post from the city.
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A timeline for the project has not been announced, city officials said.
B&B Theatres is the fifth-largest theater chain in the U.S., and family-owned, according to its website. It was founded in 1924 in Missouri and is now entering its 100th year in business.
It operates 56 theaters in 14 states, according to its website. The Macedonia location will be its first theater in Ohio, according to a news release from a theater spokesperson.
Operators teased “big plans” for the theater and “major announcements” coming in the near future.
“Our family-owned, privately-held company is thrilled to join the Macedonia market,” Bob Bagby, president and CEO, is quoted in a news release. “It is a beautiful community that feels like a B&B kind of town. We love what we do and can’t wait to bring the Magic of Movies to the area.”
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The 15-screen theater at 8161 Macedonia Commons Blvd., in the plaza at the crossroads of Interstate 271 and state routes 8 and 82, first opened nearly 25 years ago, in February 1999, according to CinemaTreasures.com.
It will be turned over to B&B Theatres on March 1, then it will be closed for several months for “a comprehensive remodel,” according to the news release.
Some of the B&B improvements in the works include heated, electric recliners in each auditorium, a full bar from which wine, beer and cocktails will be permitted anywhere in the building and an extended menu that will include burgers, fries, chicken tenders, flatbread pizzas and more.
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