Ster-Kinekor revives South African cinema with nostalgic classics and premium IMAX screenings, marking a significant turnaround in the entertainment industry.
Ster-Kinekor, South Africa’s leading cinema chain, is making a notable comeback after facing significant challenges in recent years, including declining viewership, the COVID-19 pandemic, and theater closures.
In April 2025, the company announced plans to lay off 236 employees and close up to nine cinemas across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape.
These measures followed its exit from business rescue two years prior.
Despite these setbacks, CEO Mark Sardi reported a 20% annual increase in admissions from November through April.
He attributes this growth to the improved quality of Hollywood films and the introduction of more IMAX screenings, which, although limited in number, account for a significant portion of bookings.
To further attract audiences, Ster-Kinekor launched the R50 Throwback Cinema initiative, showcasing classic films like Back to the Future, Pulp Fiction, and Home Alone.
Initially available in select locations, the program expanded to 20 theaters due to its success.
Sardi also emphasized the potential of local content in revitalizing the cinema industry.
He noted that countries like India, Nigeria, Romania, and France have surpassed pre-COVID levels, primarily due to strong local film industries.
However, he acknowledged that the high costs of film production in South Africa pose challenges to similar growth.
Through strategic initiatives and a focus on both international and local content, Ster-Kinekor is working to reestablish itself as a central player in South Africa’s entertainment landscape.
