CGX Cineplex Inc

TORONTO, Aug. 11, 2022 /CNW/ - (TSX: CGX) - Cineplex Inc. ("Cineplex" or the "Company") today released its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022. Unless otherwise specified, all amounts are in Canadian dollars.

"Cineplex delivered its strongest quarter in over two years, thanks to a great film slate and record-breaking results from across our diversified businesses," said Ellis Jacob, President & CEO, Cineplex. "The cumulative success of Top Gun: Maverick, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and Jurassic World Dominion during the quarter – which saw each film opening with a domestic box office over $100 million – is a testament to the fact that when strong film product is available, Canadians return to our theatres in droves. We generated positive net income for the first time since the start of the pandemic. We also achieved a second quarter record BPP of $12.29 and an all-time quarterly record CPP of $8.84. We also saw very encouraging results in our other businesses, including an all-time quarterly record adjusted EBITDAaL in Player One Amusement Group and record second quarter adjusted EBITDAaL in the Location-Based Entertainment business."

Jacob continued, "in addition to reporting our strongest results since the pandemic began, this quarter we are celebrating a few other important milestones from across the business, including the expansion of the Scene+ loyalty program and Empire Company Limited joining Scotiabank and Cineplex as partners. Today, we are also celebrating the one-year anniversary of CineClub."

"With respect to the Cineworld litigation, we remain focused on preparations for the Ontario Court of Appeal hearings which are scheduled for October 12 and 13 of this year. As part of the ongoing efforts to maximize and monetize the value of the judgement, we have engaged Moelis & Company as financial advisor and Goodmans LLP as lead counsel," said Jacob.

"As we look forward, we remain confident in the recovery of our businesses, our strong capital management and liquidity, and our efforts to manage financial uncertainties as we have done during previous economic downturns. The strong quarterly results aided our compliance with the financial covenant testing for the second quarter of 2022. In anticipation of ongoing film release shifts caused by COVID-19 related production delays, we have received the support and confidence of our lending group for the suspension of financial covenant testing in the third quarter of 2022. With the backdrop of recessionary concerns, Cineplex is well positioned to further capitalize on pent-up consumer demand for affordable out-of-home entertainment," Jacob concluded.

 

On August 10, 2022, Cineplex entered into a fifth amending agreement to the Credit Agreement, (the "Fifth Credit Agreement Amendment"), which among other things, extended the suspension of financial covenant testing until the fourth quarter of 2022 and liquidity covenant requirement until March 31, 2023. The following is a summary of the key terms of the Fifth Credit Agreement Amendment:

a. The suspension of financial covenant testing was extended until the fourth quarter of 2022. On resumption of financial covenant testing in the fourth quarter of 2022:

1.  
   1. for the fourth quarter of 2022, testing will be based on an annualized calculation of Adjusted EBITDA (as further adjusted in accordance with the Credit Agreement definitions)  based on the actual results for the fourth quarter multiplied by 4;
   2. for the quarter ending on March 31, 2023, testing will be based on an annualized calculation of Adjusted EBITDA based on actual results for the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023 multiplied by 2; and
   3. for the quarter ending on June 30, 2023, testing will be based on an annualized calculation of Adjusted EBITDA based on the actual results of the fourth quarter of 2022, the first quarter of 2023 and the second quarter of 2023 multiplied by 4/3.

b. Thereafter, testing will be based on an annualized calculation of the cumulative Adjusted EBITDA on a trailing four fiscal quarter basis;

c. The Total Leverage Ratio of 3.75x will apply when financial covenants are reinstated, and will be reduced quarterly by 0.25x until the third quarter of 2023 at which point it will reach a level of 3.00x;

d. The liquidity covenant will continue and be amended requiring available liquidity (as defined) to be maintained at all times until March 31, 2023 at no less than $100.0 million;

e. The Senior Leverage Ratio to be based on annualized Adjusted EBITDA and set at 1.0x lower than the Total Leverage Ratio. Senior Leverage Ratio is defined as (i) Total Debt (as defined in the Credit Agreement) less any Notes Payable to (ii) Adjusted EBITDA; and

f. A fixed charge coverage ratio of greater than 1.25x will continue to apply.

This summary of the Fifth Credit Agreement Amendment is qualified in its entirety by reference to the provisions of the Credit Agreement which contains a complete statement of those terms and conditions. The Credit Agreement and each of the First, Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Credit Agreement Amendment were filed on SEDAR on June 30, 2020, November 13, 2020, February 8, 2021, January 4, 2022, and August 10, 2022, respectively, for each of Credit Agreement Amendments.

The following describes certain key business initiatives undertaken and results achieved during the second quarter of 2022 in each of Cineplex's core business areas:

Theatre Exhibition

• Reported second quarter box office revenues of $136.4 million, a $123.9 million increase from 2021 as a result of increased theatre attendance compared to theatre closures that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period due to government mandated restrictions.
• BPP was $12.29, a second quarter record, which increased by $1.40 or 12.9% when compared to the prior year period, primarily due to an increase in premium offerings in the current period as compared to the prior period which had no 3D or ScreenX performances, in addition to the VIP auditoriums being closed for the majority of the second quarter of 2021.
• Introduced an online booking fee on June 15, 2022 that applies to tickets purchased through Cineplex's mobile app and website that will contribute to Cineplex's further investment in its digital infrastructure.

Theatre Food Service

• Reported second quarter theatre food service revenues of $98.0 million, an increase of $89.0 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to a significant increase in theatre attendance.
• CPP was $8.84, an all-time quarterly record, representing an increase of $0.98 or 12.5% when compared to the prior year period, primarily due to an increase in food service sales at VIP auditoriums which drive a higher CPP and modest price increases.

Alternative Programming

• During the second quarter, Cineplex hosted the global exclusive free fan event finale of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi with a live broadcast to an additional nine locations from the Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto. This event also included a special question and answer session featuring Canadian director Deborah Chow and Canadian actor, Hayden Christensen.
• Alternative Programming (Cineplex Events) in the second quarter of 2022 included the anime feature Jujutsu Kaisen 0, Turandot and Hamlet from The Metropolitan Opera, a concert from Twenty One Pilots, the anime feature Seventeen Power of Love and a two-night event for WWE Wrestlemania 38.

Digital Commerce

• Total registered users for Cineplex Store increased 10% from the prior year period, reaching over 2.2 million registered users.

• Reported second quarter media revenues of $26.4 million, an increase of $17.0 million or 180.9% as compared to the prior year period.

Cinema Media

• Reported second quarter cinema media revenues of $18.7 million, an increase of $16.3 million or 675.4% over the prior year period, due to increases in cinema advertising as a result of reopened theatres and new film releases.

Digital Place-Based Media

• Reported second quarter revenues of $7.7 million, an increase of $0.7 million or 10.3% due to higher project installation revenues.

Amusement Solutions

• Reported all-time record revenues in the second quarter of $65.7 million, an increase of $43.5 million or 196.3% compared to the prior year period primarily due to increases in P1AG amusement revenues from US and Canada route locations at FEC's and theatres, and increases in amusement revenues from LBE businesses.

Location-based Entertainment

• Reported all-time record revenues in the second quarter of $28.1 million, including a second quarter record for food service revenues of $10.2 million, all-time record for amusement revenues of $17.4 million and $0.5 million of media and other revenues, an increase of $26.0 million compared to the prior year period. The increase was primarily due to all LBE venues being open without capacity restrictions compared to closures that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period.

• Membership in the Scene+ loyalty program remained flat during the period ended June 30, 2022.
• Announced updates to the Scene+ program, welcoming Empire Company Limited as a co-owner of Scene+, providing members with increased opportunities to earn and redeem points. Empire will rollout Scene+ across their family of brands in Atlantic Canada in August 2022, and by early 2023, will be launched across Canada.

• Celebrated Pride Month with a collection of films available on the Cineplex Store aiming to recognize and amplify LGBTQ2IA+ voices, with a portion of the proceeds donated to support local Pride celebrations across Canada.
• Partnered with imagineNATIVE, the world's largest presenter of Indigenous screen content to curate a Cineplex Store collection to raise awareness of the rich culture, history and experiences of Indigenous people, with a portion of the proceeds donated to charitable causes.

Total revenues

Total revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2022 increased $285.0 million (438.9%) to $349.9 million as compared to the prior year period. Total revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2022 increased $472.3 million (444.1%) to $578.6 million as compared to the prior year period. A discussion of the factors affecting the changes in box office, food service, media, amusement and other revenues for the two periods is provided below.

Non-GAAP and other financial measures discussed throughout this news release, including adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDAaL, adjusted EBITDAaL margin, adjusted free cash flow, theatre attendance, BPP, premium priced product, same theatre metrics, CPP, film cost percentage, food service cost percentage and concession margin per patron are defined and discussed in Non-GAAP and other financial measures section of this news release.

Box office revenues

The following table highlights the movement in box office revenues, theatre attendance and BPP for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars, except theatre attendance reported in thousands of patrons and per patron amounts, unless otherwise noted):

 

 

 

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Box office revenues increased $123.9 million to $136.4 million during the second quarter of 2022, compared to $12.5 million recorded in the same period in 2021. This increase was mainly due to a 9.9 million increase in theatre attendance, as Cineplex's theatre circuit was open during the quarter at full operating capacity, compared to operating restrictions or closure requirements that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period. The release of highly anticipated films also contributed to the significant increase in box office revenues including Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Top Gun: Maverick which reported a North American gross of  $126.7 million during its opening weekend and has become the ninth biggest all-time grossing film in North America.

BPP for the three months ended June 30, 2022 was $12.29, a second quarter record, representing an increase of $1.40 or 12.9% from $10.89 reported in the prior year period. This increase was due to increased revenue from premium priced offerings, accounting for 42.4% of Cineplex's box office revenues in the second quarter of 2022, as compared to 22.8% in the prior year period.  In the prior year period, there were no 3D or ScreenX performances, and VIP auditoriums were closed for the majority of the second quarter of 2021. The reorganization of SCENE resulted in a change in revenue recognition leading to higher box office revenues during the quarter  of $2.6 million, a BPP increase of $0.24 with a corresponding increase in marketing costs of $2.6 million, with respect to Scene+ points issued on box office transactions.

For the year to date period, box office revenues increased $200.0 million to $216.3 million, compared to $16.3 million recorded in the prior year period. This increase was primarily due to a 16.2 million increase in theatre attendance as Cineplex's theatre circuit was open for the entire period with increased operating capacity, compared to operating restrictions or closure requirements that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period.

BPP during the year to date period was $12.19, which increased $1.75 or 16.8% from $10.44 reported in the prior year period. This increase was due to higher percentage of box office revenue from premium priced offering, which accounted for 40.2% of Cineplex's box office revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2022, as compared to 20.2% in the prior year period. The reorganization of SCENE resulted in a change in revenue recognition leading to higher box office revenues during the year to date period of $4.1 million, a BPP increase of $0.23 with a corresponding increase in marketing costs of $4.1  million, with respect to Scene+ points issued on box office transactions.  

The following table highlights the movement in food service revenues, theatre attendance and CPP for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars, except theatre attendance and same store attendance reported in thousands of patrons and per patron amounts):

 

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Food service revenues are comprised primarily of concession revenues, which includes food service sales at theatre locations and through delivery services including Uber Eats and Skip the Dishes. Food service revenues also include food and beverage sales at The Rec Room and Playdium.

Food service revenues increased by $97.4 million during the second quarter primarily due to the $89.0 million increase in theatre food service revenues to $98.0 million in the quarter. During the current period, Cineplex's theatre circuit and LBE businesses operated without government mandated capacity restrictions and proof of vaccination programs compared to ongoing capacity restrictions or mandated closure requirements enforced during the prior year period. Food service revenues from LBE  businesses which had two additional locations as compared to the prior year period,  increased by $9.7 million during the second quarter from $0.5 million to $10.2 million, further contributing to the increase in food service revenue. However, as a result of staffing availability, certain LBE venues were unable to operate at full operating levels, restricting the ability to book group events, reduced operating hours, and not operating the dining areas at full capacity. CPP for three months ended June 30, 2022 was an all-time quarterly record of $8.84, which increased by $0.98 or 12.5%. Modest prices increases to Cineplex's core food service products, two additional VIP theatre locations and film product that appealed to first-run viewers who tend to have a higher concession spend contributed to the increase in CPP, as compared to the prior year period. VIP auditoriums which drive higher CPP were closed for the majority of second quarter of 2021. The reorganization of SCENE resulted in a change in revenue recognition leading to higher concession revenues during the quarter of $2.5 million, a CPP increase of $0.22 with a corresponding increase in marketing costs of $2.5 million, with respect to Scene+ points issued on concession transactions.

For the year to date period, food service revenues increased by $159.2 million, primarily due to a $145.2 million increase in theatre food service revenues. The increase in theatre food service revenues is primarily due to increases in theatre attendance which increased by 16.2 million to 17.8 million. The prior year period was materially impacted by government mandated theatre and LBE venues closures, restrictions indoor dining and operating restrictions. Contributing to the increase in total food service, food service revenues from LBE businesses increased $15.9 million during the year to date period from $0.7 million to $16.5 million. CPP during the year to date period was $8.83, which increased by $1.43 or 19.3%. During the prior year period, government mandated closure requirements and restrictions limited consumer spend resulting in minimal premium purchases which historically generate higher CPP, contributing to a lower CPP recognized. The reorganization of SCENE resulted in a change in revenue recognition leading to higher concession revenues during the year to date period of $4.0 million, a BPP increase of $0.22 with a corresponding increase in marketing costs of $4.0 million, with respect to Scene+ points issued on concession transactions.

The following table highlights the movement in media revenues for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Total media revenues increased $17.0 million or 180.9% to $26.4 million during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the prior year period. For the year to date period, total media revenues increased $23.5 million or 127.1% to $42.0 million. The increase during both periods was due to an increase in Cinema media due to significant increases in pre-show and show-time advertising revenues, resulting in a quarterly and year to date increase of.$16.3 million and $22.6 million, respectively. During the prior year periods, theatre closures or operating restrictions remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period negatively impacting media revenues. Cineplex's cinema media arrangements are impacted by theatre attendance levels which drive impressions and ultimately impact media revenue generated by Cineplex. Accordingly, the increase in cinema media revenue reflects the increase in attendance levels when compared to the prior period. During the second quarter and year to date periods, digital placed-based media revenues increased $0.7 million and $0.8 million, respectively, compared to the prior year periods as a result of higher project installation revenues.

The following table highlights the movement in amusement revenues for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Amusement revenues increased $43.5 million or 196.3% to an all-time quarterly record of $65.7 million during the second quarter as compared to the prior year period. The increase was primarily due to a $24.7 million increase in P1AG amusement revenues from US and Canada route locations at FEC's and theatres. The increase was also attributable to a $15.8 million increase in LBE amusement revenues, resulting in an all-time quarterly record of $17.4 million for LBE amusement revenues. During the period, increased operating activities at P1AG US and Canada route locations at FEC's and theatres, as well as LBE businesses, compared to the government mandated closure requirements or capacity restrictions that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period, contributed to significant increases in amusement revenues.

For the year to date period, amusement revenues increased $80.1 million or 222.1% to $116.1 million. The increase was primarily due to a $46.9 million increase in P1AG amusement revenues from US and Canada route locations at FEC's and theatres. Further contributing to the increase was a $28.1 million increase in LBE amusement revenues. The current period also includes two additional locations of The Rec Room, resulting in increased LBE amusement revenues as compared to the prior year period. The increase is also attributable to increased operating activities as operating restrictions and mandatory closure requirements were lifted, compared to the government mandated closure requirements or capacity restrictions that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period.

The following table highlights the other revenues which includes revenues from the Cineplex Store, online booking fees, promotional activities, screenings, private parties, corporate events, breakage on gift card sales and revenues from management fees for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

The increase in other revenues during the second quarter of 2022 and year to date period is primarily due to breakage revenues relating to higher gift card redemptions and an online booking fee that applies to tickets purchased through Cineplex's mobile app and website which was implemented on June 15, 2022.

The following table highlights the movement in film cost and the film cost percentage for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars, except film cost percentage):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Film cost varies primarily with box office revenues and can vary from quarter to quarter usually based on the relative strength of the titles exhibited during the period, impacted by film cost terms which vary by title and distributor.

The increase in film cost and film cost percentage in the second quarter of 2022  and year to date over the prior year periods is due to the release of first run film product including Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Top Gun: Maverick.  Film cost percentage increased 6.4% and 8.4% for the second quarter and year to date as compared to the prior year periods  due to the top films in second quarter of 2022 having higher settlement rates and making up a larger percentage of  box office revenues.

The following table highlights the movement in cost of food service and food service cost as a percentage of food service revenues ("concession cost percentage") for both theatres and LBE for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars, except percentages and margins per patron):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Cost of food service at the theatres varies primarily with theatre attendance, the cost of food and materials purchases as well as the quantity and mix of offerings sold. Cost of food service at LBE venues varies primarily with the volume of guests who visit the location as well as the quantity and mix between food and beverage items sold. 

The increase in cost of food service during the second quarter of 2022 and year to date period is positively correlated to the increase in food service revenues recognized during the quarter and year to date period as Cineplex's theatre circuit and LBE businesses were open and operating for the entire period, compared to closures or capacity restrictions that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period. Theatre concession cost percentage for the second quarter and year to date period remained flat when compared to the prior year period. LBE food cost percentage decreased for both the second quarter and year to date period when compared to the prior year period which focused primarily on food delivery service with lower margins.  

The following table highlights the movement in depreciation and amortization expenses during the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Depreciation of property, equipment and leaseholds decreased by $1.3 million, or 5.3% during the quarter compared to the prior year period, and by $3.8 million or 7.4% for the year to date period compared to the prior year period. The decrease was primarily due to fully depreciated property, equipment and leaseholds.

The quarterly and year to date increase in amortization of intangible assets and other as compared to the prior year period is due to software developments and additions.

Depreciation of right-of-use decreased by $1.3 million and $3.3 million during the quarter and year to date period, respectively. The decrease is primarily due to modifications to lease agreements as a result of COVID-19 which reduced the corresponding right-of-use asset and related depreciation recognized.

The following table shows the movement in the loss on disposal of assets during the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

The change in the (gain) loss on disposal of assets for the second quarter as compared to the prior year period was due to the sale of certain restrictive lease rights for total proceeds of $5.4 million completed during the second quarter, compared to nominal activity in the prior year period. 

The change in the (gain) loss on disposal of assets for the year to date period as compared to the prior year period was due to the sale of Cineplex's head office buildings for gross proceeds of $57.0 million completed during the first quarter of 2021.

Other costs include three main sub-categories of expenses; theatre occupancy expenses, which capture associated occupancy costs for Cineplex's theatre operations; other operating expenses, which include the costs related to running Cineplex's film entertainment and content, media, as well as amusement and leisure; and general and administrative expenses, which includes costs related to managing Cineplex's operations, including head office expenses. Please see the discussions below for more details on these categories.

The following table highlights the movement in other costs for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

The following table highlights the movement in theatre occupancy expenses for the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

 

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Theatre occupancy expenses increased $12.0 million or 225.3% during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the prior year period. This increase was primarily due to the reduction in subsidies received as a result of the reopening of Cineplex's businesses. The increase was also attributable to higher theatre rent related expenses including common area maintenance and taxes incurred as Cineplex's theatres were open during the period. During the prior year period, Cineplex recognized lower theatre occupancy expenses as a majority of theatres were closed or operating at far below normal capacity levels. Same-store rent increased $6.9 million primarily due to rent relief measures negotiated with landlord partners which were $6.7 million higher in the prior year period. Cineplex was able to reduce theatre occupancy expenses through the recognition of realty tax and rent subsidies of $0.4 million (2021 - $9.9 million). 

For the year to date period, theatre occupancy expenses increased $17.0 million or 140.4% compared to the prior year. This increase was primarily due to increased theatre rent related expenses, including common area maintenance and taxes, as Cineplex's theatres were permitted to operate in the current period at a greater capacity compared to the prior year period. During the prior year period, Cineplex recognized lower theatre occupancy expenses as a majority of theatres were closed or operating at far below normal capacity levels. Same-store rent increased $16.3 million primarily due to rent relief measures negotiated with landlord partners, which were $17.4 million higher in the prior year period. Similarly, due to the reopening of Cineplex's businesses, Cineplex received a lower amount of subsidy relief when compared to the prior year period and recognized realty tax and rent subsidies of $6.9 million (2021 - $20.8 million).

The following table highlights the movement in other operating expenses during the quarter and the year to date (in thousands of dollars):

 

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Other operating expenses increased $90.2 million or 167.7% during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the prior year period. The increase was primarily driven by increases in same store theatre payroll and theatre operating expenses of $31.0 million and $18.0 million, respectively, as Cineplex's theatres were permitted to operate for the entire period as compared to extended closures in effect during the prior year period. Cineplex also recognized P1AG other operating expenses of $37.0 million, an increase of $17.3 million when compared to the prior year period. During the second quarter of 2022, government mandated closure requirements and capacity restrictions were lifted, resulting in increased operating activities at P1AG US and Canadian route locations at FEC's and theatres. The lifting of government-imposed restrictions also resulted in increased operations at LBE businesses leading to a $12.9 million increase in LBE other operating expenses when compared to the prior year period. Cineplex also recognized a $1.0 million decrease in SCENE operating costs, and a $5.1 million increase in marketing expenses relating to the presentation of the cost of issuance of Scene+ points. Despite the lifting of government mandated restrictions in the current period, Cineplex received $1.2 million (2021 - $15.8 million) of subsidies, which offset theatre payroll, non-theatre rent, realty tax and utilities.

For the year to date, the overall increase in other operating expenses from the prior year resulted from the reopening of Cineplex's theatres, LBE businesses and P1AG US and Canada route locations at FEC's and theatres as compared to the closure requirements and capacity restrictions that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period. The increase was primarily driven by increases in same theatre payroll and theatre operating expenses of $44.4 million and $31.1 million, respectively, as Cineplex's theatres operated for the entire period as compared to government mandated restrictions and closures in the prior year. Similarly, due to increased operating activities at P1AG US and Canadian route locations at FEC's and theatres, Cineplex also recognized P1AG other operating expenses of $66.8 million, an increase of $31.6 million when compared to the prior year. LBE businesses were permitted to operate at increased capacity due to the lifting of government mandated restrictions, resulting in a $20.3 million increase in LBE other operating expenses when compared to the prior year. Cineplex also recognized a $8.1 million increase in SCENE operating costs, and a $8.1 million increase in marketing expenses relating to the presentation of the cost of issuance of Scene+ points. Cineplex received $21.9 million (2021 - $30.2 million) of subsidies in the current period, comprised of $19.5 million (2021 - $24.7 million) of payroll subsidies of which $14.6 million (2021 - $13.1 million) was offset against theatre payroll, and $2.4 million (2021 - $5.5 million) of non-theatre rent, realty tax and utility subsidies. 

The following table highlights the movement in general and administrative ("G&A") expenses during the quarter and the year to date, including share-based compensation costs, and G&A net of these costs (in thousands of dollars):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

G&A expenses increased $1.1 million during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the prior year period. Cineplex recognized $2.8 million of labour subsidies in the second quarter of 2021, and none in the second quarter of 2022, contributing to a net increase of $3.4 million in head office payroll expenses. Cineplex incurred $1.2 million (2021 - $2.6 million) of expenses related to litigation and claims recovery arising from the Cineworld Transaction during the quarter.

G&A expenses for the year to date period increased $3.1 million compared to the prior year period. The change was primarily due to $7.5 million higher head office payroll expenses due to $3.7 million lower labour subsidies received. Cineplex received $2.0 million of labour subsidies in 2022, compared to $5.7 million received in 2021. Cineplex incurred year to date costs relating to litigation and claims recovery arising from the Cineworld Transaction of $1.5 million (2021 - $5.0 million). 

The following table presents net loss, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDAaL for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 as compared to the prior year period (expressed in thousands of dollars, except adjusted EBITDAaL margin):

 

Second Quarter and Year to Date

Net income and adjusted EBITDAaL for the second quarter of 2022 was $1.3 million and $35.8 million, respectively, as compared to a net loss of $103.7 million and an adjusted EBITDAaL loss of $53.2 million, respectively, in the prior year period. The removal of operating restrictions on Cineplex's theatres and LBE venues across Canada, resulted in significantly improved performance when compared to the prior year period.

Net loss and adjusted EBITDAaL for the six months ended June 30, 2022 was $40.9 million and $30.0 million, respectively, as compared to a net loss of $193.4 million and an adjusted EBITDAaL loss of $115.3 million, respectively, in the prior year period. The movement in both net loss and adjusted EBITDAaL was due to the removal of operating restrictions on Cineplex theatres and LBE venues across Canada, compared to operating restrictions that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year period.

For the second quarter of 2022, adjusted free cash flow per common share of Cineplex was $0.35 as compared to $(1.04) in the prior year period. Adjusted free cash flow per Share for the second quarter of 2022 and year to date period increased mainly due to significantly improved operating results with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions on Cineplex's theatres and LBE businesses. During the current period, Cineplex's businesses were permitted to operate at increased capacity levels as remaining government restrictions were lifted, compared to extended closure periods that remained in effect for a majority of the prior year resulting in significantly reduced operations.

National Instrument 52-112, Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Disclosure ("NI 52-112") imposes obligations regarding disclosure of non-GAAP financial measures, non-GAAP ratios, and other financial measures. Cineplex reports on certain non-GAAP measures, non-GAAP ratios, supplementary financial measures and total segment measures that are used by management to evaluate Cineplex's performance. The following measures included in this news release do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP and may not be comparable to similar measures provided by other issuers. Cineplex includes these measures because its management believes that they assist investors in assessing financial performance. These non-GAAP and other financial measures are used throughout this news release and are defined below.

Non-GAAP financial measures are defined in 52-112 as a financial measure disclosed that (a) depicts the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of an entity, (b) with respect to its composition, excludes an amount that is included in, or includes an amount that is excluded from, the composition of the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity, (c) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity, and (d) is not a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation.

A non-GAAP ratio is defined by 52-112 as a financial measure disclosed that (a) is in the form of a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation, (b) has a non-GAAP financial measure as one or more of its components, and (c) is not disclosed in the financial statements.

The below are non-GAAP financial measures or non-GAAP ratios that are reported by Cineplex.

Management defines EBITDA as earnings before interest income and expense, income taxes and depreciation and amortization expense. Adjusted EBITDA excludes the change in fair value of financial instrument, gain on disposal of assets, foreign exchange, the equity income (loss) of CDCP, and impairment, depreciation, amortization, interest and taxes of Cineplex's other joint ventures and associates. Adjusted EBITDAaL modifies adjusted EBITDA to deduct current period cash rent paid or payable related to lease obligations. During the year, Cineplex agreed to a variety of arrangements with landlords to reduce or defer cash rent paid or payable as a result of the impact of COVID-19.

Subsequent to the adoption of IFRS 16, Leases, by Cineplex effective January 1, 2019, the calculation of EBITDA no longer includes a charge for amounts paid or payable with respect to leased property and equipment.  Given the majority of Cineplex's businesses are carried on in leased premises, Cineplex introduced the measure of adjusted EBITDAaL which includes a deduction for cash rent paid/payable related to lease obligations. Cineplex's management believes that adjusted EBITDAaL is an important supplemental measure of Cineplex's profitability at an operational level and provides analysts and investors with comparability in evaluating and valuing Cineplex's performance period over period. EBITDA, adjusted for various unusual items, is also used to define certain financial covenants in Cineplex's Credit Facilities. Management calculates adjusted EBITDAaL margin by dividing adjusted EBITDAaL by total revenues.

EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDAaL are non-GAAP measures generally used as an indicator of financial performance and they should not be seen as a measure of liquidity or a substitute for comparable metrics prepared in accordance with GAAP. Cineplex's EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDAaL may differ from similar calculations as reported by other entities and accordingly may not be comparable to EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA or adjusted EBITDAaL as reported by other entities.

Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measure generally used by Canadian corporations as an indicator of financial performance and it should not be viewed as a measure of liquidity or a substitute for comparable metrics prepared in accordance with GAAP. Standardized free cash flow adjusts the amount of cash from operating activities to deduct capital expenditures net of proceeds on sale of assets in ordinary business operations. Standardized free cash flow is a non-GAAP measure recommended by the CICA in its 2008 interpretive release, Improved Communication with Non-GAAP Financial Measures: General Principles and Guidance for Reporting EBITDA and Free Cash Flow, and is designed to enhance comparability. Adjusted free cash flow is also a non-GAAP measure used by Cineplex to modify standardized free cash flow to exclude certain cash flow activities and to measure the amount available for activities such as repayment of debt, dividends to owners and investments in future growth through acquisitions. Beginning with the MD&A for the three months ending March 31, 2019, Adjusted free cash flow included repayments of lease obligations that represented the principal portion of rent expenses that were included in net income calculation prior to the adoption of accounting standard IFRS 16, Leases, by Cineplex effective January 1, 2019. Given that the materiality of the principal portion of the rent expenses and comparability of adjusted free cash flow disclosure for comparative periods, adjusted free cash flow also adjusts standard free cash flow to deduct principal amount of repayment of lease obligation.

Cineplex presents standardized free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow per Share because they are key measures used by investors to value and assess Cineplex. Management of Cineplex defines adjusted free cash flow as standardized free cash flow adjusted for certain items, and considers adjusted free cash flow the amount available for distribution to Shareholders. Standardized free cash flow is defined by the CICA as cash from operating activities as reported in the GAAP financial statements, less total capital expenditures minus proceeds from the disposition of capital assets other than those of discontinued operations, as reported in the GAAP financial statements; and dividends, when stipulated, unless deducted in arriving at cash flows from operating activities. The standardized free cash flow calculation excludes common dividends and others that are declared at the Board's discretion.

Supplementary financial measures are financial measures that are not (a) presented in the financial statements and (b) is, or is intended to be, disclosed periodically to depict the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow, that is not a non-GAAP financial measure or a non-GAAP ratio as defined in the instrument. The below are supplementary financial measures that Cineplex uses to depict its financial performance, financial position or cash flows.

Cineplex has presented basic and diluted earnings per share net of this item to provide a more comparable earnings per share metric between the current periods and prior year periods. In the non-GAAP and other financial measure, earnings is defined as net income or net loss attributable to Cineplex excluding the change in fair value of financial instruments.

Cineplex reviews per patron metrics as they relate to box office revenue and theatre food service revenue such as BPP, CPP, BPP excluding premium priced product, and concession margin per patron, as these are key measures used by investors to value and assess Cineplex's performance, and are widely used in the theatre exhibition industry. Management of Cineplex defines these metrics as follows:

Theatre Attendance: Theatre attendance is calculated as the total number of paying patrons that frequent Cineplex's theatres during the period.

BPP: Calculated as total box office revenues divided by total paid theatre attendance for the period.

BPP excluding premium priced product: Calculated as total box office revenues for the period, less box office revenues from 3D, 4DX, UltraAVX, VIP ScreenX and IMAX product; divided by total paid theatre attendance for the period, less paid theatre attendance for 3D, 4DX, UltraAVX, VIP, ScreenX and IMAX product.

CPP: Calculated as total theatre food service revenues divided by total paid total theatre attendance for the period.

Premium priced product: Defined as 3D, 4DX, UltraAVX, IMAX, ScreenX and VIP film product.

Theatre concession margin per patron: Calculated as total theatre food service revenues less total theatre food service cost, divided by theatre attendance for the period.

Cineplex reviews and reports same theatre metrics relating to box office revenues, theatre food service revenues, theatre rent expense and theatre payroll expense, as these measures are widely used in the theatre exhibition industry as well as other retail industries.

Same theatre metrics are calculated by removing the results for all theatres that have been opened, acquired, closed or otherwise disposed of subsequent to the start of the prior year comparative period.  For the three months ended June 30, 2022 the impact of two locations that have been opened or acquired and four locations that have been closed or otherwise disposed of have been excluded, resulting in 153 theatres being included in the same theatre metrics. For the six months ended June 30, 2022 the impact of one location that has been opened or acquired and five locations that have been closed or otherwise disposed of have been excluded, resulting in 153 theatres being included in the same theatre metrics. 

Cineplex reviews and reports cost of sales percentages for its two largest revenue sources, box office revenues and food service revenues as these measures are widely used in the theatre exhibition industry. These measures are reported as film cost percentage and concession cost percentage, respectively, and are calculated as follows: 

Film cost percentage: Calculated as total film cost expense divided by total box office revenues for the period.

Theatre concession cost percentage: Calculated as total theatre food service costs divided by total theatre food service revenues for the period.

LBE food cost percentage: Calculated as total LBE food costs divided by total LBE food service revenues for the period.

Lease-related cash saving
Quantified savings negotiated with landlords as a result of the COVID-19 disclosures.

Certain information included in this news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to Cineplex's objectives, goals and strategies to achieve those objectives and goals, as well as statements with respect to Cineplex's beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions. The words "may", "will", "could", "should", "would", "suspect", "outlook", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "forecast", "objective" and "continue" (or the negative thereof), and words and expressions of similar import, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements also include, statements pertaining to:

• Cineplex's outlook, goals, expectations and projected results of operations, including factors and assumptions underlying Cineplex's projections regarding the duration and impact of a novel strain of coronavirus ("COVID-19") pandemic on Cineplex, the movie exhibition industry and the economy in general, as well as Cineplex's response to the pandemic related to the closure or operational restrictions of its theatres and location-based entertainment ("LBE") venues, employee reductions and other cost-cutting initiatives and increased expenses relating to safety measures taken at its facilities to protect the health and well-being of guests and employees;
• Cineplex's expectations with respect to liquidity and capital expenditures, including its ability to meet its ongoing capital, operating and other obligations, and anticipated needs for, and sources of, funds; and
• Cineplex's ability to execute cost-cutting and revenue enhancement initiatives in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on Cineplex, along with the rest of the movie exhibition industry and other industries in which Cineplex operates, including material decreases in revenues, results of operations and cash flows. The situation continues to evolve and the social and economic effects are widespread. As an entertainment and media company that operates spaces where guests gather in close proximity, Cineplex's business has been significantly impacted by the actions taken to control the spread of COVID-19. These actions included, among other things, the introduction of vaccine passports or proof of vaccination mandates, social distancing measures and restrictions including those on capacity. During the second quarter of 2022, as COVID-19 cases declined across the country, restrictions relating to capacity limits, vaccine passports and mask mandates were lifted in all of the markets in which Cineplex operates, providing clearer visibility for Cineplex's business and the return to normalcy. Cineplex is actively monitoring the situation and is adapting its business strategies as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic evolves.

By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, including those described in Cineplex's Annual Information Form ("AIF"), and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2021 ("Annual MD&A") and in this news release. Those risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, give rise to the possibility that predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved. Certain material factors or assumptions are applied in making forward-looking statements and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Cineplex cautions readers not to place undue reliance on these statements, as a number of important factors, many of which are beyond Cineplex's control, could cause actual results to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to the movie exhibition industry and the economy in general, as well as Cineplex's response to the COVID-19 pandemic as related to the closure or capacity restrictions of its theatres and LBE venues, employee reductions and other cost-cutting initiatives, and increased expenses relating to safety measures taken at its facilities to protect the health and well-being of customers and employees; Cineplex's expectations with respect to liquidity and capital expenditures, including its ability to meet its ongoing capital, operating and other obligations, and anticipated needs for, and sources of, funds; Cineplex's ability to execute cost-cutting and revenue enhancement initiatives in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; risks generally encountered in the relevant industry, competition, customer, legal, taxation and accounting matters; the outcome of the litigation surrounding the termination of the Cineworld transaction; and diversion of management time on litigation related to the Cineworld transaction.

The foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When reviewing Cineplex's forward-looking statements, readers should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Additional information about factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations and about material factors or assumptions applied in making forward-looking statements may be found in the "Risks and Uncertainties" section of Cineplex's MD&A.

Cineplex does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable Canadian securities law. Additionally, Cineplex undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of Cineplex, its financial or operating results or its securities. All forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof and are qualified by these cautionary statements. Additional information, including Cineplex's AIF and Annual MD&A, can be found on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

You are cordially invited to participate in a conference call with the management of Cineplex (TSX: CGX) to review our second quarter. Ellis Jacob, President and Chief Executive Officer and Gord Nelson, Chief Financial Officer, will host the call scheduled for:

Cineplex Inc. Q2 2022 Earnings Webcast:

Please note, analysts who cover the Company, should use the dial-in option to participate in the live question period:b1-226-828-7575 (Local) or 1-833-950-0062 (Canada Toll-free), access code 200573. All attendees should join the event 5-10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. Media are welcome to join the call in listen-only mode.

Cineplex (TSX:CGX) is a top-tier Canadian brand that operates in the Film Entertainment and Content, Amusement and Leisure, and Media sectors. Cineplex offers a unique escape from the everyday to millions of guests through its circuit of over 170 movie theatres and location-based entertainment venues. In addition to being Canada's largest and most innovative film exhibitor, the company operates Canada's favourite destination for 'Eats & Entertainment' (The Rec Room) and complexes specially designed for teens and families (Playdium). It also operates successful businesses in digital commerce (CineplexStore.com), alternative programming (Cineplex Events), cinema media (Cineplex Media), digital place-based media (Cineplex Digital Media "CDM") and amusement solutions (Player One Amusement Group "P1AG"). Providing even more value for its guests, Cineplex is a joint venture partner in Scene+, Canada's largest entertainment loyalty program.

Proudly recognized as having one of the country's Most Admired Corporate Cultures, Cineplex employs approximately 10,000 people in its offices across Canada and the United States. To learn more visit Cineplex.com or download the Cineplex App.                      

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SOURCE Cineplex