With cinemas across the U.S. preparing to reopen in July, Cinemark Theaters stated it will encourage, but not require, moviegoers to wear facemasks when attending its theaters nationwide.
The statement was made by a Cinemark representative to The Wrap after a conference call from CEO Mark Zoradi. The representative mentioned that "outside of those areas where it is required by local mandates, Cinemark will be encouraging — not requiring — guests to wear face masks."
During the conference call, Zoradi stated, "We have been intensely focused in developing enhanced health and safety protocols, understanding that these factors will weigh heavily on the confidence and peace of mind of our employees, guests and community... [We will be] requiring all employees to wear face masks and encouraging guests to do the same."
He explained that the film exhibition company will promote social distancing guidelines through "seat buffering technology" where consumers can buy tickets to encourage physical distancing between movie patrons. Along with social distancing, all Cinemark cinemas will implement strict cleaning and sanitation measures, as well as limit interaction between employees and customers, screening employees and staggering movie showtimes.
The film exhibitor will institute a four-phase reopening plan beginning June 19 where all theaters will reopen by July 10. Zoradi stated that Cinemark's reopening will begin with five theaters located near the company's headquarters before a rolling process of reopenings in the U.S. over the following weeks.