Image: Vue is set to acquire Apollo Cinemas UK

Vue Entertainment, one of the UK's leading cinema operators and developers, has revealed that it is to acquire independent chain Apollo Cinemas UK in a deal reportedly worth £20m.

The deal sees Vue Entertainment add the 14 Apollo-branded cinemas to its portfolio, which represents a combined circuit of 85 multiplexes offering nearly 800 screens.

Apollo Cinemas currently has venues in locations such as Altrincham, Greater Manchester; Carmarthen, south Wales; London - Piccadilly Circus; and Torbay, Devon.

The acquisition means that each Apollo-branded cinema can now deliver the extensive range of Vue-branded products and services, designed to enhance the cinema-going experience.

Vue Entertainment CEO Tim Richards said: "We are delighted to have acquired the Apollo Cinemas multiplex circuit. Their 14 cinemas are built to very high specifications complete with Dolby digital surround sound and large wall-to-wall screens.

"The cinemas are also 100 per cent equipped with Sony's superb market leading digital 4K projectors, which are the same as those being rolled out across Vue. These high quality cinemas perfectly complement Vue's existing circuit of 71 cinemas."

Simon Gregg for Apollo Cinemas UK added: "Being part of Vue allows our employees new opportunities to progress their careers with the UK's leading cinema company."

Details: www.myvue.com