“2020 confirmed the importance of our corporate culture and beliefs. Cinema and the power it has culturally around the world is core to who we are. It’s in our DNA,” commented Jan De Witte, CEO, Barco.”We are committed to enabling and empowering the industries and communities that we serve. Today, we live by our values and welcome you back to the movies.”
Barco and Cinionic have a long and rich heritage in delivering the world’s leading cinematic experiences. After an extended closure, audiences in Belgium and many other parts of the world can now return to cinemas as local restrictions ease where it is safe to do so. To mark the occasion, Barco CEO Jan De Witte and Cinionic CEO Wim Buyens welcomed Mayor of Kortrijk Ruth Vandenberghe, Film Festival Ghent Managing Director Marijke Vandebuerie, and Fem Cauwelie from Enchante at Barco’s OneCampus in Kortirjk to make the donation.
“Cinema is about coming together for a shared experience, one that is accessible to all. As we chart the reopening of cinemas globally, we see one thing in common, moviegoer excitement to come return,” added Wim Buyens, CEO, Cinionic. “Our dedicated cinema team shares the anticipation to sit back, relax and enjoy a movie in theaters. We are proud to work with like-minded partners to empower moviegoing as cinemas reopen in Belgium.”
The charitable donation, made with long-standing partner Film Fest Gent, will be distributed by Enchanté. The Flemish Government recently recognized Enchanté, a citizens’ initiative, with an Ultima Award for its community work and its network of social partners to promote cultural participation among the underprivileged.
Today’s announcement complements a series of reopenings and industry initiatives worldwide. In North America, more than 28,000 screens are set to celebrate Cinema Week June 22- June 27, as audiences show their excitement for the big screen at the box office. Cinionic and Barco are proud to illuminate more than 95,000 screens with their leading cinema solutions.