Movie theaters around the country could be getting a major makeover: Here’s why

Movie theaters around the county may be getting a major makeover.

The National Association of Theatre Owners, an organization that represents theater owners from around the world, have announced plans to invest more than $2.2 billion in the next three years in an effort to upgrade entertainment experiences at the facilities.

The organization represents theater owners from around the world and the eight chains that reported to the theater owners association include AMC, Regal Cinemas, Cinemark, Cineplex, Marcus Theatres Corp., B&B Theatres, Harkins Theatres and Santikos Entertainment.

According to the association, the funds will be used on an “array of projects to modernize and improve theaters of all sizes,” including adding the latest laser projection technology and immersive sound systems, installing more comfortable seats, and creating “family entertainment” options such as arcades and bowling.

“There is no question that movie fans of all ages love heading to the local theatre to see great movies on the big screen. But the competition for consumers’ hard-earned dollars is fiercer than ever,” said National Association of Theatre Owners President & CEO Michael O’Leary in the announcement.

USA TODAY reports the investment comes as the movie theater industry has been hampered by the boom of streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic that prompted theaters to shut down for months.