Helios and IMAX Launch Partnership With Two New IMAX with Laser Locations in Poland

IMAX and Helios, the largest cinema chain in Poland, are partnering to open two new IMAX with Laser locations in Gdynia and Szczecin, Poland, by the premiere of 'Avatar: Fire and Ash'. This marks the first new IMAX locations in Poland since 2022 and the first partnership since 2003, expanding IMAX's presence to eight locations in the country and highlighting the appeal of premium cinematic experiences in a dynamic European economy.

Analysis

IMAX Corporation is strategically expanding its presence in Poland through a new partnership with Helios, the nation's largest cinema chain, which operates 54 venues and 304 screens. This collaboration will see the launch of two new IMAX with Laser locations in Gdynia and Szczecin, timed for the premiere of "Avatar: Fire and Ash." This development is noteworthy as it represents the first new IMAX installations in Poland since 2022 and the first partnership with a new exhibitor since IMAX commenced operations in the territory in 2003, bringing its total network in the country to eight locations. Tomasz Jagiełło, CEO of Helios S.A. (part of Agora Group), highlighted this as a significant advancement in their premium offerings, addressing the increasing demand for high-end cinematic experiences, particularly in dynamic regional cities beyond major metropolitan areas. Concurring with this positive outlook, Giovanni Dolci, Chief Commercial Officer at IMAX, emphasized that this partnership underscores the escalating appeal of The IMAX Experience and supports the company's strategy to broaden its global reach in robust European economies like Poland's. The new Helios venues will be equipped with IMAX with Laser, IMAX's most advanced projection technology, designed to deliver crystal-clear 4K images and precision audio. As of March 31, 2025, IMAX operated 1,810 systems globally. The announcement reflects a strongly positive sentiment (0.75) and an optimistic tone, indicating a favorable outlook for this expansion.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors should view this expansion as a positive catalyst for IMAX, demonstrating its ability to secure new partnerships and penetrate growing markets for premium cinema experiences.
• The addition of two new IMAX with Laser systems to its backlog in Poland, timed with a major film release, could contribute to near-term revenue growth and reinforces the demand for IMAX's advanced technology.
• Monitoring the performance of these new Polish locations and future partnership developments with Helios could provide further insight into IMAX's growth trajectory in the European market.