Multiplex cinemas have multiple facilities like food outlets in and around the large parking area to attract a large, mainstream audience to view popular mainstream films distributed by major studios, located near busy towns to maximize profits but face competition from other multiplexes. Independent cinemas have fewer facilities and parking, show more niche artistic films to a smaller specialized audience, located in rural less busy towns but struggle financially with less profit from smaller audiences and concession stands.

1. Multiplex Independent
Facilities Multiple facilities in the surrounding
area, like food outlets, plus food outlets
in the cinema providing snacks and
drinks; tends to be a large car park
nearby.
Less facilities, and possibly
small parking nearby.
Types of films
shown
More mainstream films by
conglomerate distributors, to secure
and make more money.
More independent, niche or
artistic films shown.
Audience Large, more mainstream audience to
maximise profit
Smaller and more
specialised audience that
may not necessarily fit into
the mainstream.
Location More busy town locations, but not in
the town centre.
More rural, less busy towns.
Issues Competition from other multiplex
cinema companies, possibly nearby
screening similar movies and targeting
the same audience.
Financial issues, a smaller
audience will produce less
profit. They will also not
gain as much money from
concession stands.