The statistics state that there are about 10,000 cinema sites in the EU-28 and 12,800 cinema sites in the EU-OBS. With the lift in Covid restrictions, cinema attendance increased nearly 40 per cent between 2020 and 2021, and considering the present scenario, theatre owners must adapt to new seating ways to ensure the audience’s safety and augment the overall cinematic experience. So, if you are considering a complete overhaul of the theatres, you need to find the right cinema recliner in the EU to experience higher footfalls and repeat visits. The seating solution should be a balance of comfort and luxury that encourages the customers to visit again and again. Hence, here is a guide to help you choose the appropriate theatre seating.
- Safety Considerations
The EU experienced a massive hit due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic leading to the shutdown of 9000 theatres and disrupting the entire film industry. Even with the reopening of theatres after the relaxation of government restrictions, a large section of the audience is apprehensive about heading back to theatres. So while many theatres resorted to running at half capacity, it cannot be deemed a long-term solution. Hence, adapting to the changes in cinema seating can be the only way to safeguard the audience’s health and ensure sustainability. And the best seating solution is the use of recliners instead of rockers. While the initial investment for the recliners is significant, it could yield good returns in the years to come.
- Comfort and Luxury
A recliner should have the ideal combination of comfort and luxury. An audience will sit for a good one and a half hours for the movie, and they don’t want to be uncomfortable or have a backache. Hence, before choosing the right cinema recliner in the EU, check different stores and assess their features thoroughly.
For the seat material, you can choose cotton, leather or a combination of natural-synthetic fibres. Polyurethane upholstery could also be a great choice to offer luxury and comfort for a fraction of the cost of leather. Moreover, the modern-day audience will not be satisfied with just the comfortable seating. So, make sure the recliners have tray tables, USB ports, service call buttons and storage compartments that attract them towards repeatedly returning to the theatre.
- Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning a recliner is a hard enough task, and when you have the burden of cleaning all the recliners within an auditorium, the time you need to put in is unfathomable. So, while looking for recliners, ensure they have an easy cleaning mechanism.
- Durability
Buying recliners can be a hefty investment, and you want the seating to last for several years. In this regard, the choice of material can be a vital factor. So, leather can offer you maximum durability and is easy to clean. You can also opt for faux leather that would serve you well for years. Also, to increase the life of your recliners, optimise each part from the backrest cushion to the swivel table.
- Warranty
You may be confused with the presence of several recliner manufacturers in the EU market. But, it is crucial that the recliner manufacturer you choose is reliable and provides top-notch post-sale services. Hence, thoroughly check the warranty you are availing of with the purchase and the services you might expect.
The change in cinema seating has become ubiquitous with the audience’s evolving needs. So, check the above tips for a complete overhaul of the theatre seats and create an unparalleled viewer experience.
