AMC Theatres has unveiled their reopening plans as the chain will begin reopening theaters on July 15 with 450 locations in the U.S. According to Deadline, AMC CEO Adam Aron revealed that they will not be requiring guests to wear masks unless a certain theater location is within a state that has mandated face coverings in order to enter public places, then the theater will follow state regulations.
“We did not want to be drawn into a political controversy,” said Aron. “We thought it might be counterproductive if we forced mask-wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary. We think that the vast majority of AMC guests will be wearing masks. When I go to an AMC feature, I will certainly be wearing a mask and leading by example.”
AMC will be selling masks for $1 at their theater locations for guests who would like to purchase one when they arrive. Employees will be required to wear masks and will have their temperatures checked prior to their shift, and if they’re sick, they will be compensated.
RELATED: Cineworld’s Regal Cinemas Prepare to Reopen as Cinemark Unveils More Safety Protocols
AMC’s new Safe & Clean policy also includes:
–Every auditorium will be cleaned between each showtime with enhanced hard surface disinfection including doors, handrails, recliner buttons, and tray tables. There will be extra time allocated between showtimes to allow a full, thorough cleaning of each auditorium.
–Auditorium fixtures and seating areas will be disinfected nightly using electrostatic sprayers.
–All high-touch areas including door handles, stanchions, service counters, handrails, escalator rails, benches, and restroom fixtures will be routinely disinfected. Self-service Freestyle machines will be sanitized routinely, and sanitation stations with sanitizing wipes and/or hand sanitizer will be provided immediately nearby for guest use.
–Disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer will be found throughout theatres for guests.
–Products used for sanitation and disinfection at AMC are EPA approved for use against viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens including COVID-19.
–FDA approved hand-sanitizing stations will be placed throughout the theatre for associate and guest use.
–The circuit is recommending that guests use AMC’s online ticketing and mobile app for ticketless entry. For guests who would like to purchase their tickets at the theatre, AMC has Automated Box Office machines.
