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Drive-in Movie Theater

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How to Start a Drive-in Movie Theater

Written by: Natalie Fell

Natalie is a business writer with experience in operations, HR, and training & development within the software, healthcare, and financial services sectors.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on May 24, 2022 Updated on May 8, 2024

Investment range

$378,500 - $1,309,600

Revenue potential

$585,000 - $1.6 million p.a.

Time to build

1 - 3 months

Profit potential

$117,000 - $312,000 p.a.

Industry trend

In the old days, the whole family would pile into the car on a Saturday night and head to the local drive-in to watch the latest blockbuster. Today, people are looking for a more nostalgic movie-going experience and drive-in theaters are making a major comeback. 

The pandemic and social distancing concerns have played a key role in this resurgence, as film lovers everywhere have turned to outdoor alternatives. The movie theater industry is poised to grow 4.8% annually in the coming years as people get back out and enjoy themselves, and you could make good money with your own drive-in movie theater. 

But before you rev up your projector, it’s important to learn what it takes to start a business. Fortunately, this step-by-step guide contains all the information and insight you need to get your drive-in up and running. 

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Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Before starting a drive-in movie theater, it’s important to consider the pros and cons. 

• Rewarding – Provide a fun experience for patrons
• Trendy – Drive-in theaters are making a comeback
• Local Recognition – Become a popular tourist attraction!
• High Startup Costs – Land and equipment is expensive
• Assistance Needed – Running a drive-in theater takes manpower

Movie Theater industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US movie theater industry is worth $12.1 billion in 2022. The recent pandemic caused an overall decline in growth, but it is now back on the rise.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/movie-theaters-united-states/ ))
• Growth forecast – The global movie theater market is expected to grow 4.7% annually through 2028.(( https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/movie-theaters-market/ ))
• Number of businesses – As of 2022, there are 2,525 movie theater businesses in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/movie-theaters-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in the drive-in movie theater industry include:

• The pandemic has renewed interest in drive-in movie theaters. They’re the perfect place to see a film while being mindful of social distancing. 
• Technological advancements like digital projection screens and mobile ticketing apps have modernized the drive-in theater experience. 

Challenges in the drive-in movie theater industry include:

• Local zoning regulations can be restrictive when it comes to searching for land. Even if you find a piece of property that’s big enough, you may not be able to operate your drive-in theater on it. 
• Film licensing is a complex process that may require the assistance of a booking agent. New releases are expensive and have showing requirements, which can be difficult for a small theater to meet. 

How much does it cost to start a drive-in movie theater?

Startup costs for a drive-in range from $380,000 to $1.3 million. Costs include land lease or purchase, projection and sound equipment, and the cost to license the films you feature. You may be able to keep costs low by purchasing used equipment and licensing older films instead of new releases. 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your drive-in movie theater, including: 

• Digital projector
• Projector screen
• Film licenses
• Concessions

How much can you earn from a drive-in movie theater?

The average cost to attend a drive-in movie is $20 per vehicle. If food and drink are available, patrons spend an average of $10 on concessions. Your profit margin after the costs of land, equipment, film licensing, and supplies should be about 20%. 

In your first year or two, you could hold three screenings per week for 125 cars each. You could charge $20 per vehicle and sell $10 worth of concessions to each, bringing in $585,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $117,000 in profit, assuming that 20% margin. As your drive-in theater gains recognition, you could increase your screenings to four per week to 250 cars each, bring in $1,600,000 in annual revenue, and make a handsome profit of $312,000. 

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry when starting a drive-in movie theater. Here’s what you can expect:

• High startup costs
• Acquisition of land suitable for operations

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a drive-in movie theater, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research drive-in movie theaters in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a drive-in theater with a full-service bar or restaurant onsite. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as only showing children’s movies or classic films.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Plan your drive-in theater’s features and services

You can choose to show a variety of different films at your drive-in movie theater. New releases are more expensive to show than older films. Consider offering concessions like food and alcoholic beverages to increase revenue. 

How much should you charge for attendance to your drive-in theater?

You could price your tickets at $10 to $15 per person, or charge a per-vehicle rate of $20 to $40. Depending on what you offer for concessions, you could charge between $5 and $15 per item. Alcoholic beverages might cost $10 to $20. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be movie-goers looking for an alternative to the traditional movie theater experience. You’ll have customers spanning a wide age range, so focus your marketing efforts on popular social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. 

Where? Choose your drive-in theater location

You’ll need to acquire a piece of land that’s big enough for a drive-in theater, somewhere between 10 and 15 acres. Zoning requirements in your local area may limit your choices, so check with your municipality. 

In the early stages, you may want to run your administrative operations from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out an office.

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “drive-in theater” or “drive-in movies”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Starlight Drive-in Theater” over “Retro Drive-in Theater”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Drive-in Movie Theater Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: A brief summary highlighting the key points of the drive-in movie theater business plan, including objectives, mission, and financial projections.
• Business Overview: An overview of the drive-in movie theater business, covering its history, location, target audience, and unique selling points.
• Product and Services: Description of the services offered, such as outdoor movie screenings, concessions, and potentially special events or themed nights.
• Market Analysis: Examination of the target market for the drive-in movie theater, including demographics, preferences, and trends in the entertainment industry.
• Competitive Analysis: Evaluation of other drive-in theaters in the area, assessing their strengths and weaknesses to identify opportunities for differentiation.
• Sales and Marketing: Strategies for attracting customers to the drive-in, encompassing advertising, promotions, and partnerships to boost attendance and revenue.
• Management Team: Introduction of the key members of the management team, highlighting their relevant experience and roles in running the drive-in theater.
• Operations Plan: Details on the day-to-day operations of the drive-in, covering staffing, scheduling, equipment maintenance, and customer service.
• Financial Plan: Projections for the drive-in’s financial performance, including startup costs, revenue forecasts, and profit margins, providing a roadmap for financial success.
• Appendix: Supplementary materials, such as detailed financial statements, permits, contracts, or any additional information supporting the drive-in movie theater business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to drive-in movie theaters. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your drive-in theater will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a drive-in movie theater. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.  

Step 8: Apply for Licenses/Permits

Starting a drive-in theater requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your drive-in movie theater as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as SimpleTix , Veezi , or Big Tickets , to build event webpages, assign parking spaces, and collect payments.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Professional Branding — Develop a brand that blends nostalgia with modern appeal, evident in your signage, website, and social media presence.
• Local SEO — Optimize your website for local and regional searches related to drive-in theaters, movies, and unique date night ideas, enhancing visibility. Regularly update your Google My Business and Yelp profiles to strengthen your local search presence.
• Partnership Development — Network with local businesses, schools, and community groups to build relationships and offer group discounts or special event nights.
• Social Media Engagement — Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to promote upcoming movies, share behind-the-scenes content, and interact with your audience.
• Movie Blog — Maintain a blog discussing classic films, new releases, and tips for the best drive-in movie experience.
• Email Marketing — Send regular newsletters about upcoming features, special theme nights, and promotions.
• Customer Spotlights and Reviews — Feature customer testimonials that highlight their experiences and favorite aspects of your drive-in.
• Themed Movie Nights — Host movie nights focused on specific themes such as 80s classics or horror marathons to attract diverse audiences.
• Special Events — Organize unique events like classic car nights or local filmmaker showcases to enhance the movie-going experience.
• Loyalty Programs — Offer discounts or season passes to frequent visitors to encourage repeat business and word-of-mouth promotion.
• Local Influencer Collaborations — Partner with local influencers or bloggers to broaden your reach, particularly during special promotions or events.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your drive-in movie theater meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your drive-in movie theater could be:

• Outdoor film fun for the whole family!
• Enjoy classics in the comfort of your own car, just like the old days
• A nostalgic movie experience with a modern-day twist

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a drive-in, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in movies for years and can offer invaluable insight and connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in drive-in theaters. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

As your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a drive-in movie theater include:

• General Manager – Bookkeeping, manage inventory, run payroll
• Theater Attendants – Greet customers, serve concessions, operate projector
• Marketing Lead – Manage social media sites, generate new business

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Drive-in Movie Theater – Start Making Money!

Drive-in movie theaters are making a huge comeback as more people resume social activities. Becoming a drive-in movie theater owner takes a lot of work, but you’ll be putting smiles on your customers’ faces and good money in your pocket! 

Now that you’ve learned the business fundamentals, it’s time to get out there and build your brilliant drive-in business. 

• Drive-in Movie Theater FAQs

Yes, a drive-in movie theater can be a profitable business. Ticket sales alone won’t be enough to drive revenue, so make sure to offer attractive concessions for purchase.

To stand out from competitors in the drive-in movie theater industry, create a unique experience with themed movie nights and a welcoming atmosphere. Provide excellent customer service and delicious concessions to keep customers returning for more.

Most use FM radio frequencies to transmit sound. In the old days, you used to hook up a speaker to your car.

You need a central location where people can purchase food and beverages. You’ll manage it just like you would a cafe. 

Once you build a brand, you can find new locations in your area. In theory, you can even franchise your theater. 

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Business Name
• Create a Drive-in Movie Theater Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Licenses/Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Drive-in Movie Theater - Start Making Money!

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How to Start a Drive-In Movie Theater

Drive-ins are finding a resurgence in some markets that target their film selection and menu to older customers who look to relive their childhood. You may have a playground, arcade, and concession stand to improve your customer experience. Sound is broadcast over radio waves and received by each car's stereo system where they can control the volume.

Learn how to start your own Drive-In Movie Theater and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a drive-in movie theater by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Drive-In Movie Theater
• Form your Drive-In Movie Theater into a Legal Entity
• Register your Drive-In Movie Theater for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Drive-In Movie Theater
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Drive-In Movie Theater
• Get Drive-In Movie Theater Insurance
• Define your Drive-In Movie Theater Brand
• Create your Drive-In Movie Theater Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your drive-in movie theater. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Drive-In Movie Theater Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your drive-in movie theater?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a drive-in movie theater.

You will need about 10 to 14 acres of land ready to be developed or you may find an abandoned drive-in up for sale. You won't be able to use old projection equipment, as the industry switched to a digital platform in the last decade. Expect to invest between $250,000 and a million to develop the property including building a projection house, concession stand, sound system, and playground.

How many acres do I need to lease or buy? The typical drive-in theater requires between 10-14 acres of land. This should allow up to 500 cars to park at your theater. You will also need to consider the space required to funnel cars off the road and through the box office. Some localities have zoning requirements in place to prevent traffic from building up along the road or highway leading into the theater.

What kind of projector do I need? Because most film studios have begun releasing movies exclusively in digital format, digital projectors have become essential to successful drive-in theaters. This will be one of your larger expenses, as digital projectors typically cost between $75,000 and $150,000 per screen and must be professionally installed and calibrated. Barco, Christie, and NEC are the three main cinema projector manufacturers today. Because not all old movies are available in digital format, if you plan to show classic movies you may also want to purchase a 35mm projector. You can often find these used.

How much is a projector screen? A quality projector screen for your drive-in theater can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $250,000 depending on your area and the specific local requirements. Most screens are made of steel and anchored in concrete. You will generally need to have a screen professionally constructed and installed to meet wind-load requirements.

How do I get an FM station to play the audio? The most common way to handle audio in a drive-in theater is use of an FM radio transmitter. To use this system you must select an FM frequency not in use and plug your FM transmitter into your projector’s audio output. This allows you to deliver film audio to patrons through their car radios. You will also need to have a supply of portable radios to rent out to those unable to receive sound through their car radios. You will need a different radio frequency for each screen. To remain FCC compliant, you will need to purchase a Part 15 FM transmitter.

What are the ongoing expenses for a drive-in movie theater?

Your payroll will be a major expenditure. Film rentals are a controllable expense as you can opt for second run flicks at a much lower rate. You will be placing weekly orders for concession supplies. Lot maintenance will also take up a large chunk of your expense spreadsheet.

How much does it cost to license a new film? The cost to license a new film will vary from film to film. The licensing fee is typically paid as a percentage of total ticket sales, with a minimum flat fee required. It will typically be around 50%, but big name new releases will often fall on the higher end during opening days or weeks with the fee gradually reducing over the life of the theater run. 

How much does it cost to license a classic film? The cost to license a classic film will also vary depending on the specific movie, but will generally be lower than new releases. Second-run and classic movies can be a good option for drive-in theaters as they are often easier to obtain than new releases. However, you must take into account the level of demand in your area and how profitable older movies will be, even in the face of lower licensing fees. 

How do I get the license to show films? Movie theaters obtain licenses to show films through film distributors. Because this process can be complex, it’s best to hire a booking agent to assist you in the early days of running your theater. Over time, you may choose to take this responsibility on yourself. As a small theater, booking new releases can be difficult. This is because many studios place specific requirements on leasing their films to theaters. Often, a new release will only be leased to a theater that can play the film seven days a week. If your drive-in is not open every day or has only one screen, it can be difficult to meet these requirements. Additionally, if you are located in close proximity to an indoor theater, these theaters will typically get priority because they can run the films day and night.

Who is the target market?

Your preferred customers will be someone looking for an old fashioned moviegoing experience. Drive-in movies reached peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. Therefore, many of your customers will be seeking a sense of nostalgia for entertainment in those times. Tailoring the theme of your theater and decor to such a historical period can help satisfy the wants and needs of your customers. 

How does a drive-in movie theater make money?

You bring in income by selling tickets to your films and through the sales of concession products. Most of your profit is generated through food and drink sales as film distributors take a serious portion of ticket sales for new films.

How would I manage ticket sales? Your specific box office set up will depend on your location. You may choose to sell from a single window or set up several entry lanes to manage more traffic. Some theaters even utilize carhops to come window to window selling tickets. Although many older theaters maintain a cash-only system, today many film distribution companies require electronic sales to accurately record ticket sales and revenue.

Do I charge by vehicle, or by person? Movie studios require a per person admission price for new movies. However, you may consider holding per car specials on classic movie runs during slow periods.

The average ticket price per person is about $10 a piece, with discounted rates for children and seniors. You may wish to offer a car-load price of $30 to $40. Concession items will be sold for a price of between $4 and $10. If you are offering alcohol and a full menu, expect to be charging $12-$20.

Can you set up deals with local restaurants to deliver to parked cars? Although it may be possible to set up an agreement with local restaurants to service your movie goers, it may not be cost-effective. Because concessions will make up such a large portion of your theater profits, it can be counter productive to give such a large share of these profits to outside businesses.

How much profit can a drive-in movie theater make?

You may be making as little as 10% of each ticket sold when you are showing new releases during the summer blockbuster season. Concession items offer profit of 50 to 80%, but your operational expenses will eat into all those extra dollars. If you are selling out all season long, you could see a total profit of $100,000 to $150,000.

How can you make your business more profitable?

The key to success is filling up your drive-in every time you open the gates. Running obscure or old movies that don't bring in customers might be fun, but not profitable. New trends for the movie industry focus on offering premium services for regular customers over offering bargain tickets to increase the profit for every carload that buys admission.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your drive-in movie theater is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

Federal Business Licensing Requirements

There are federal regulations regarding what can and cannot be added to, sold as, and processed with food. Attached is a resource from the Food and Drug Administration detailing the process of starting a food business: How to Start a Food Business

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a drive-in movie business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A drive-in movie business is generally run out of a large lot. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a drive-in business.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your drive-in movie business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Food Regulations

When selling food, you will need licensing from a local health department; all establishments serving food are required to pass a health inspection. Tips for faring well on a health inspections

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Drive-In Movie Theater needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Drive-In Movie Theater.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a drive-in movie theater

It's a good idea to develop a website that is updated on a weekly basis that talks about the latest releases, offers trailers, lists menu options, and perhaps offers online ticket sales. You will need to make sure that your theater is listed on major online ticket outlets like Fandango and Movietickets.com. Spread the news about the new location by participating in local festivals, fairs, and conventions. You may wish to sponsor local arts and food fests, as well.

How to keep customers coming back

With so many options available for watching movies, you need to offer a unique experience. Some drive-ins now offer beer, wine, and even fine food options. The latest in projection and sound often attract avid movie-goers. Families will appreciate bounce houses or supervised play areas to allow Mom and Dad to enjoy the show without having to constantly keep an eye on the kids.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

The successful drive-in owner will have a love of film and entertaining families in an all-American style. You won't mind working nights, weekends, and holidays as these are peak times for the movie business.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a drive-in movie theater?

When your operate your drive-in movie theater, on any given day you might need to:

• Sell tickets and admissions to your patrons
• Work with distribution companies to book upcoming movies
• Load and program film files into your digital projectors
• Preview films to ensure proper presentation
• Clean and maintain concession equipment
• Hire your parking and concession staff
• Clean and maintain the property after each show
• Ensure customer satisfaction through patrolling of the entire property during the show
• Update websites to provide ticket times and prices
• Operate the projectors during each presentation
• Order supplies for concession stand/cleaning equipment
• Maintain attractive landscaping
• Attend trade screenings to learn about upcoming films

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful drive-in movie theater?

Knowledge of film history and emerging film trends will help you select movies that your audience will appreciate. If you play movies that do not attract customers, the you will lose the money you spent to play that movie. Being able to read trends in order to predict which films will be successful will help you present movies that will be popular among your customers, maximizing your profits and success. Taking film production or film history classes can help you develop the skills needed to make these predictions. 

On the other hand, you will also need to perform the administrative tasks of this business. The entertainment industry can be a confusing industry to work with, so it is important that you familiarize yourself with licensing requirements that will affect your ability to play certain movies. Taking classes in business or entertainment law can help you gain the knowledge needed to more easily navigate your way in the entertainment industry. 

How do I manage the concessions? Concession sales are the heart of the movie theater business. Because of high licensing fees, most movie theaters make the bulk of their profit selling concessions. For this reason, you’ll want to put a great deal of effort into this aspect of your theater. Handling food service during the small window before the movie starts can be a difficult balance. Consider what food and drinks you plan to serve and how long each customer turnaround will take. Although popcorn and soda are the two highest yield concessions, having a few other unique offerings can make your theater stand out.

To properly run your concession stand you’ll need an area to store and prepare food and a serving area. You’ll need to consider how your food will be prepared, how much space is needed for preparation, and what equipment is required.

What is the growth potential for a drive-in movie theater?

The drive-in movie theatre model is in survival mode as customers turn to their home theaters more often to catch a flick. When you provide an experience that cannot be duplicated anywhere else, your drive-in can become a local sensation that will remain open for years to come. Each location will fill a unique need for their local community.

Do I need to be connected to a traditional theater? No. Most drive-in theaters are not affiliated with major traditional theater chains. 

How do I plan for the winter months? The seasonal effects on your theater will depend on where you are located. Many drive-in theaters in warmer climates remain open year round. Even those in cooler places can find ways to stay open. If you do not plan to stay open in the colder months you will need to have a solid financial plan in place to cover ongoing expenses involved in maintaining your property and effective marketing to get your theater back up and running in the spring or summer.

Should you consider joining a franchise?

Would it be smarter to find a franchise opportunity? Because the cost to build a drive-in theater from scratch can be very high, purchasing a franchise or acquiring a current or recently closed theater can be a much more cost-effective way to get into this business. By choosing to open a franchise you are also given the additional benefit of existing relationships with film distributors and ongoing concession product deals.

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Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a drive-in movie theater?

Build your business plan with the understanding that you may be running a seasonal business. Drive-ins operate generally between April and October in northern locations, as the costs of removing snow and weather make operating in the winter exorbitant. Think about other ways to use your property during the daytime such as classic car shows, flea markets or running charitable events for schools and community organizations. Join organizations such as North American Theater Owners to expand your contacts with distributors and vendors.

Is it better to pave the parking lot?  Having a paved space for your drive-in theater is preferable for a number of reasons. Not only will it hold up much better to the constant traffic and the elements, it will also reduce dirt, dust, and mud accumulation. Some localities require paved surfaces. Be sure to check with your local zoning authorities to see what is required.

How large does the screen need to be? Modern movies are produced in two different aspect ratios: widescreen/flat (1.85:1) and scope (2.39:1). Because drive-in theaters do not have moveable screen masking to adjust by film the way indoor theaters do, you will want to build a screen somewhere between these two ratios. Many drive-in theaters use a ratio between 2.0:1 and 2.2:1. A typical drive-in screen is between 50 and 100 feet wide. Once you’ve chosen your width you will base the height on your chosen dimensions. 

Screen height is also important. A drive-in screen should be at least 15 feet from the ground depending on the lay of your land. Watching drive-in movies from the back of an SUV with its rear hatch open has become very common. This modern development requires higher screen heights to allow an unobstructed view.

Do I need to have angled parking in the lot?  Achieving the correct parking angle to allow all patrons to have a clear view of your screen is an essential aspect of constructing a drive-in theater. To do so, ramps are almost always required. To determine how to construct the ramps you will need to understand what angle the cars across your space will need to be at in order for the screen to be in view for both front and rear seat passengers. This will depend on the natural slope of your land and the distance between the car and the screen. Building ramps is another major drive-in start-up expense.

How and when to build a team

About six weeks before you open, you will need to be in the process of hiring and training your projectionists, managers, and concession and lot attendants. You will want to line up a landscape and lot maintenance company and ensure you have technical support available for your projectors and business computers. You will have had to contact your film distributors six months ahead of time to ensure that you are in the pipeline to receive the blockbusters for your first customers.

How many staff do I need to hire? At a bare minimum, you will need to have employees to sell tickets and concessions, provide security, run the projector, and clean up after each showing. The exact size of your staff will depend on the number of patrons you host and the overall size of your operation.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• National Association of Theater Owners
• International Cinema Technology Association
• United Drive-In Theater Owners Association

Real World Examples

• Michigan business
• California business
• Texas business

Further Reading

• Tips for opening a drive-in movie theater
• Things to consider

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to Start a Drive-In Movie Theater

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Drive-In Movie Theater Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

Discover the ins and outs of running a drive-in movie theater with our comprehensive guide.

Access a variety of up-to-date resources in our “Knowledge Is Power” section, aiding you during startup and beyond.

Bookmark for future reference and share with others!

Let’s get started with the steps.

Steps to Starting a Drive-In Movie Theater

Below are the steps to starting a drive-in movie theater.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Drive-In Movie Theater Overview
• Researching Your Drive-In Movie Theater
• Looking at Financials
• Choosing A Business Location
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Drive-In Movie Theater Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Create an External Support Team
• Hiring Employees

1.  An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Is Starting a Drive-In Movie Theater the Right Step for You?

Passion Is Paramount:

There is a key factor to succeeding in business, and that factor is you! Understanding how you feel about owning and running a drive-in movie theater is important.

Passion is a crucial element for success in your own business. It’s the driving force you need. When you’re passionate about your business and problems arise, you look for solutions.

On the other hand, without it, you’ll look for a way out.

Are You Driven?

How passionate are you about owning your own drive-in movie theater? Let’s look at an interesting perspective: Imagine you were granted 5 wishes for anything you want.

No restrictions! Now an important question. Would you start a drive-in movie theater with one of your wishes in this situation?

If your answer is yes, it shows that you are passionate about owning and operating a drive-in movie theater and are heading in the right direction.

Discover Your Path:

However, if your answer is no, it prompts another question: What would you prefer to do instead?

Perhaps, you should pursue that path instead. In summary, you need to be passionate about the business you are starting to increase your chances of success.

Without passion, you may be facing an uphill battle.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see, Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Drive-In Movie Theater

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Drive-In Movie Theater

Drive-In Movie Theater: An Overview

A drive-in movie theater is an open-air venue where moviegoers can enjoy films from the comfort of their own vehicles.

Instead of sitting in traditional indoor theaters, patrons park their cars facing a large screen, tuning their radios to hear the movie’s audio.

Drive-ins provide a unique and nostalgic movie-watching experience, especially for families and those seeking a sense of outdoor entertainment.

Day-to-Day Tasks of Running a Drive-In Movie Theater

Preparing the Grounds:

Maintaining the theater grounds is vital for customer satisfaction.

Daily tasks include clearing debris, keeping the parking lot well-marked, and ensuring that speaker posts or radio frequency systems are in working order.

Film Selection:

Choosing the right films to screen is essential.

This involves researching popular movies, coordinating with distributors, and planning the screening schedule for the week or month.

Customer Service:

Delivering excellent customer service is paramount. Theater staff must greet patrons, assist with parking, and ensure that everyone is comfortable throughout the movie.

Managing concessions and ticket sales is also part of the daily routine.

Technical Setup:

Handling the technical aspects of the theater is crucial. This includes maintaining projectors, screens, and audio systems.

Regular testing and troubleshooting ensure smooth operations during screenings.

Safety and Security:

Ensuring the safety of customers and their vehicles is a top priority.

Theater staff must be vigilant in enforcing traffic rules, providing emergency assistance, and monitoring the premises to prevent disturbances.

Marketing and Promotions:

Promoting the theater to attract customers is an ongoing task. Social media, local advertising, and loyalty programs can help boost attendance and build a loyal customer base.

Financial Management:

Managing finances is essential for the theater’s success. This involves tracking revenue, handling expenses, and budgeting for upgrades or repairs.

Adapting to Weather Conditions:

As an outdoor venue, drive-ins are susceptible to weather changes.

Monitoring weather forecasts and adjusting the schedule or operations is vital for customer satisfaction and safety.

Collaborating with Local Businesses:

Building partnerships with nearby businesses, such as restaurants or community organizations, can help attract more visitors and create a community around the theater.

Running a drive-in movie theater requires dedication, attention to detail, and a passion for providing a unique cinematic experience.

By staying on top of daily tasks and catering to the needs of moviegoers, owners can create a thriving and enjoyable entertainment destination.

b.) A Key Points To Succeeding in a Drive-In Movie Theater

Keys to Succeed in Operating a Drive-In Movie Theater

Building a Customer Base:

Building a customer base can be challenging during the startup phase. Focus on creative marketing strategies, promotions, and engaging with the local community to attract moviegoers to your drive-in theater.

Building Strong Relationships:

Establish strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees. A loyal customer base, reliable suppliers, and motivated employees are essential for long-term success.

Providing Desired Products and Services:

Offer products and services that your customers want. Pay attention to their preferences and feedback to tailor your movie selections, concessions, and amenities accordingly.

Customer Feedback and Action:

Collect customer feedback and address credible issues that align with your operation. Acting on feedback and making improvements will give your drive-in theater a competitive edge.

High-Level Customer Service:

Prioritize exceptional customer service. Your customers are the heart of your business, and providing a positive and enjoyable experience will keep them coming back.

Focus on Value:

Always focus on providing value to your customers. Offer reasonable ticket prices, quality entertainment, and an overall memorable experience to retain and attract more patrons.

Hiring the Right Team:

Assemble the right team for each position. A dedicated and skilled staff will play a key role in the success of your drive-in theater.

Effective Staff Management:

Manage your staff effectively, treat them with respect, and create a healthy work environment. Improving employee retention ensures a stable and committed workforce.

Efficient Cash Flow Management:

Maintain a strong focus on cash flow management. Monitor revenue and expenses diligently to ensure financial stability.

Cost Control and Quality:

Keep costs as low as possible without compromising quality or customer service. Efficient cost management will enhance profitability.

Embrace Change and Adaptation:

Stay adaptable and embrace industry, business processes, and technology change. Adapting to new trends and advancements will keep your theater relevant and competitive.

Handling Revenue Fluctuations:

Prepare for fluctuations in revenue due to seasonal changes or external factors. Building financial reserves and contingency plans can help weather uncertain times.

Dealing with Competition:

Be prepared to face both new and existing competition. Differentiate your drive-in theater through unique offerings, exceptional service, and targeted marketing.

Effective Advertising and Marketing:

Invest in effective advertising and marketing strategies to raise awareness about your drive-in theater. Engaging campaigns and promotions will draw more attention to your venue.

c.) Making Your Drive-In Movie Theater stand out

Unique Movie Selection:

Offer a diverse and exclusive selection of movies to cater to various tastes and demographics. Host themed movie nights or showcase classic films to create a distinct movie-watching experience.

Gourmet Food Offerings:

Elevate the traditional concession stand with gourmet food options. Serve a range of delicious snacks, creative dishes, and specialty drinks to enhance the overall movie night.

Drive-In Events and Festivals:

Organize special events and festivals, such as car shows, live music performances, or seasonal celebrations. These gatherings can draw larger crowds and create a sense of community around your theater.

Premium Viewing Experience:

Upgrade the viewing experience with high-quality audio systems and large screens. Providing exceptional picture and sound quality will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Outdoor Comfort:

Ensure the comfort of your patrons by offering cozy seating options like comfortable chairs, blankets, or pillows. Create a warm and inviting ambiance for an unforgettable outdoor movie night.

Themed Decor and Atmosphere:

Transform your drive-in theater with unique themes and decorations. Whether it’s a retro 50s vibe or a futuristic setting, the right ambiance can set your theater apart.

Drive-In Tech Enhancements:

Incorporate modern technology, such as mobile app ticketing or car-side ordering for concessions. Embracing tech-savvy solutions can streamline the customer experience.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Entertain families with pre-movie activities like face painting , games, or playgrounds. Making your theater family-friendly will attract a broader audience.

Eco-Friendly Initiatives:

Showcase your commitment to sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices, such as recycling programs, solar-powered facilities, or electric vehicle charging stations.

Creative Partnerships:

Collaborate with local artists, businesses, or charities to host joint events or promotions. Partnering with like-minded organizations can expand your reach and appeal to new audiences.

d.) Add on Ideas for a Drive-In Movie Theater

Themed Movie Nights:

Organize themed movie nights, such as date night classics, throwback Thursdays, or sci-fi weekends. These specialized screenings can attract niche audiences.

VIP Drive-In Experience:

Offer a premium VIP package with exclusive parking spots, private seating areas, and personalized services to cater to those seeking luxury and exclusivity.

Drive-In Gaming Arcade:

Set up a gaming arcade area for both kids and adults, featuring classic arcade games or virtual reality experiences to complement the movie entertainment.

Drive-In Concerts:

Host live music concerts on select nights, providing a dynamic blend of music and movies for a captivating evening of entertainment.

Outdoor Cinema Festivals:

Organize outdoor cinema festivals with multiple screens, showcasing a variety of movies over several days. This can create a festival-like atmosphere and attract movie enthusiasts.

Drive-In Comedy Shows:

Bring laughter to your theater by hosting stand-up comedy nights or comedy movie marathons, attracting comedy lovers to your venue.

Car-Themed Events:

Appeal to car enthusiasts by hosting car-related events, such as car meet-ups, vintage car shows, or drive-in movie nights featuring famous car-themed films.

Interactive Movie Experiences:

Offer interactive movie experiences where the audience can participate in the film’s plot or decision-making, making the movie night more engaging and memorable.

Drive-In Themed Carnivals:

Occasionally transform your theater into a drive-in carnival with carnival games, food stalls, and lively entertainment for a carnival-like movie night.

Outdoor Fitness Classes:

Utilize your theater space during the day by hosting outdoor fitness classes, yoga sessions, or dance workshops, attracting health-conscious individuals to your venue.

By implementing these creative ideas and add-ons, your drive-in movie theater can stand out from the competition and become a popular destination for entertainment seekers.

e.) Drive-In Movie Theater Models

Types of Drive-In Movie Theater Setups and Their Business Models

1. Classic Drive-In Theater:

Description: The traditional drive-in theater setup where patrons park their cars facing a large outdoor screen. Audio is typically transmitted through speakers placed near each parking spot.

Business Model: Revenue is generated through ticket sales, concessions, and sponsorships. Classic drive-ins often attract families and nostalgic moviegoers.

2. Popup Drive-In Theater:

Description: Popup drive-ins are temporary setups that can be established in various locations, such as parks, stadiums, or parking lots, for special events or limited-time screenings.

Business Model: Popup drive-ins generate revenue through event ticket sales, concessions, and partnerships with event organizers.

3. Urban Rooftop Drive-In:

Description: Urban rooftop drive-ins are located on the rooftops of buildings in busy city centers, offering a unique and scenic movie-watching experience.

Business Model: Revenue is derived from ticket sales, concessions, and potential partnerships with rooftop venue owners or event organizers.

4. Drive-In Dine-In Theater:

Description: This setup combines a drive-in movie theater with a restaurant or food truck area, allowing patrons to enjoy a meal while watching the movie from their cars.

Business Model: Revenue comes from ticket sales, food and beverage sales, and any potential partnerships with food vendors.

5. Digital Drive-In Theater:

Description: Digital drive-ins use modern projection technology and FM radio to transmit audio directly to the cars, replacing traditional speakers.

Business Model: Similar to classic drive-ins, digital drive-ins generate revenue through ticket sales and concessions.

6. Multi-Screen Drive-In Theater:

Description: Multi-screen drive-ins have multiple screens, allowing them to show several movies simultaneously, giving patrons more movie options.

Business Model: Revenue is generated through multiple screenings, ticket sales, and concessions from each screen.

7. Hybrid Drive-In Entertainment Center:

Description: Hybrid drive-in entertainment centers offer a variety of entertainment options, such as concerts, live performances, gaming zones, and movie screenings.

Business Model: Revenue comes from ticket sales, concessions, and partnerships with various entertainment providers.

8. Drive-In Movie Festivals:

Description: Drive-in movie festivals host multiple screenings over several days, celebrating a specific genre, director, or movie theme.

Business Model: Revenue is generated from festival passes, individual movie tickets, and potential sponsorship deals.

Choosing the right business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later is more challenging. Identifying a profitable and high-demand niche for your drive-in movie theater is essential.

By understanding the different setups and business models available, you can make an informed decision to create a successful and thriving drive-in movie theater.

f.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Drive-In Movie Theater

Starting a Drive-In Movie Theater: Essential Considerations

Type of Drive-In Movie Theater Model:

Before embarking on your drive-in movie theater venture, determine the type of setup you envision. Consider options like a classic drive-in, rooftop setup, popup drive-in, or a hybrid entertainment center.

Ownership and Staffing:

Decide whether you will manage the theater yourself or hire employees. Assess the workload, your skills, and your budget to make an informed choice.

Business Management:

Choose between hands-on management or hiring a dedicated manager. Assess your level of involvement and expertise in running a business.

Customer Acquisition:

Outline strategies to attract customers to your drive-in theater. Consider marketing efforts, community engagement, and online presence to reach a wider audience.

Customer Retention:

Plan ways to keep customers coming back for more. Consider loyalty programs, special events, and exceptional customer service to build a loyal customer base.

Partnerships and Investors:

Decide if you are open to seeking partners or investors to support your drive-in theater venture. Evaluate the benefits and potential challenges of such collaborations.

Physical vs. Online Operation:

Determine whether you prefer a physical brick-and-mortar setup or an online presence. An online platform can complement the drive-in experience and provide additional revenue streams.

Long-Term Goals and Growth:

Consider your long-term vision for the drive-in theater. Set clear growth goals and strategies to expand your business over time.

Safety and Licensing Compliance:

Ensure you have the necessary permits and licenses to operate legally. Implement safety measures and adhere to local regulations to create a secure environment for patrons.

Movie Selection and Licensing:

Research movie licensing options and choose films that align with your target audience’s interests. Obtain the required licenses to screen the movies legally.

Concession Offerings:

Plan your concession menu carefully, offering a variety of snacks and beverages to enhance the movie experience. Consider unique and gourmet options to stand out.

Financial Projections and Budgeting:

Develop detailed financial projections and budget plans. Factor in initial startup costs, ongoing expenses, and projected revenue to ensure financial stability.

By thoughtfully answering these questions, you will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges and opportunities that come with starting and operating a successful drive-in movie theater.

Remember, thorough planning and strategic decision-making are key to creating a memorable and thriving entertainment destination for movie enthusiasts of all ages.

g.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Drive-In Movie Theater

Pros of Running a Drive-In Movie Theater:

You can be your own boss:

As the owner, you have the autonomy to make decisions and steer the business in the direction you desire.

You’re free to be creative:

Running a drive-in theater allows you to explore creative concepts, unique movie screenings, and innovative events to engage your audience.

Potential for high revenue:

A successful drive-in theater can generate substantial revenue through ticket sales, concessions, and event hosting.

Flexible working hours:

Once your business is established and you have a competent team, you can have more flexibility in setting your working hours.

Control over your working environment:

You have the freedom to design the theater layout and create a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere for your customers.

Opportunities for Expansion:

As your drive-in theater gains popularity, you can explore opportunities for expansion, such as adding more screens or diversifying entertainment options.

Community Engagement:

Running a drive-in theater allows you to become an integral part of the local community, hosting events, and bringing people together.

Cons of Running a Drive-In Movie Theater:

Problems Are Your Responsibility:

As the owner, you must handle any issues that arise, whether they are related to operations, customer complaints, or equipment malfunctions.

Irregular Income:

In the early stages or during slow periods, income may not be consistent, and you might need to rely on savings or supplementary income.

Challenging Start-Up Phase:

The initial stages of setting up a drive-in theater can be demanding, requiring extensive planning, investment, and overcoming regulatory hurdles.

Customer Acquisition and Retention:

Attracting and retaining customers can be challenging in a competitive market. Marketing and customer service efforts are crucial.

Long Hours and Workload:

Running a drive-in theater can involve long working hours, especially during peak seasons or special events.

Pressure to Succeed:

The success of the business rests on your shoulders, leading to a sense of responsibility and pressure to make the venture profitable.

Substantial Initial Investment:

Starting a drive-in theater requires a significant upfront investment in land, equipment, licensing, and facilities.

Adapting to Change:

The entertainment industry is dynamic, and drive-in theaters must continuously adapt to changing customer preferences and technological advancements.

Business Risks:

Like any venture, there are inherent risks associated with running a drive-in theater, such as economic downturns, weather disruptions, and unexpected challenges.

Employee Management:

Hiring and retaining a reliable and competent team can be a continuous challenge in the entertainment industry.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

3. Research

Drive-in movie theater research.

Drive-In Movie Theater: Conducting Thorough Research

Quality Information is Key:

Before diving into the drive-in movie theater business, conduct thorough research to understand what you’re getting into.

Quality information will prepare you for potential challenges and opportunities.

Learning from Experienced Owners:

Seek insights from experienced drive-in theater owners. They can provide valuable and reliable information about the industry, operation, and best practices.

Priceless Knowledge and Experience:

Time spent with experienced owners can be priceless, offering you the chance to gain insights from their years of knowledge and experience in the field.

Connecting with the Right People:

Identify and approach the right people in the industry to gain relevant knowledge and guidance. Networking with experienced individuals can be immensely beneficial.

Utilizing Valuable Resources:

Read articles and resources that provide ideas for connecting with experienced owners.

These steps go beyond this post, so make use of valuable information to understand the business better.

Prepare for Success:

By arming yourself with knowledge from experienced individuals and comprehensive research, you’ll be better equipped to succeed in the drive-in movie theater venture.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Target Audience

Overview: The Benefits of Understanding Your Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is crucial for a drive-in movie theater’s success.

When you know your target market, you can tailor offers that appeal to your customers, providing products and services that genuinely interest them.

By identifying their preferences, demographics, and behaviors, you can create a more engaging and personalized movie-watching experience, fostering customer loyalty and attracting a wider audience.

Target Market Ideas:

• Families seeking outdoor entertainment options
• Couples looking for a unique and nostalgic date night experience
• Movie enthusiasts interested in classic films and themed screenings
• Local residents seeking community-oriented events and activities
• Parents searching for family-friendly and safe entertainment venues
• Young adults and teenagers looking for social and fun activities
• Event organizers and businesses interested in hosting special events or movie nights
• Tourists exploring the local entertainment scene
• Car enthusiasts interested in drive-in car shows and automotive-themed events
• People seeking alternatives to traditional indoor theaters for pandemic-safe movie viewing.

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Drive-In Movie Theater Startup Overview

This section provides an overview of the startup costs, monthly expenses, revenues, and profits for your drive-in movie theater.

Startup Costs:

To ensure a successful launch, accurately estimate the startup costs for a smooth planning phase until your theater opens.

Underestimating could lead to running out of money, delaying the opening. Conversely, overestimating may deter potential investors.

Costs will vary based on the operation’s size, location, staffing, equipment choices (new or used), and lease or rental decisions.

List everything needed and research prices, accounting for any additional expenses that may arise during your research.

For more detailed information, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Sales and Profit:

Your drive-in theater’s sales are influenced by the popularity and demand for your products and services. Effective marketing is crucial to reach the right audience.

Profitability:

Achieving profitability involves considering various expenses, including rent, payroll, and overhead costs.

You must generate sufficient sales to cover monthly expenses and pay salaries for a successful venture.

Thorough financial planning is essential to ensure profitability and long-term success.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue.

Simple Sample: Financial Lists to Consider As a Starting Point

Note: Focus on the issues more than the numbers. The numbers are samples. Your estimates will differ due to how you set up your business, location, expenses, and revenues. 

Sample Financial Lists for a Drive-In Movie Theater

Below are three overly simplified sample financial lists to give you a broad overview of the areas to focus on.

Sample Estimated Startup Costs (in USD)

• Land Purchase/Lease: $100,000 – $500,000
• Construction and Site Preparation: $200,000 – $800,000
• Screen and Projection Equipment: $50,000 – $150,000
• Audio System: $20,000 – $50,000
• Concession Stand and Equipment: $30,000 – $100,000
• Ticketing and Point-of-Sale System: $10,000 – $30,000
• Lighting and Electrical Setup: $10,000 – $40,000
• Marketing and Promotion: $20,000 – $50,000
• Legal and Licensing: $5,000 – $20,000
• Contingency Fund: $50,000 – $100,000

Total Estimated Startup Costs: $495,000 – $1,790,000

Sample Estimated Monthly Expenses (in USD)

• Payroll (Including Staff and Management): $30,000 – $60,000
• Rent or Mortgage Payment: $10,000 – $30,000
• Utilities and Maintenance: $5,000 – $15,000
• Concession Supplies: $8,000 – $20,000
• Insurance (General Liability, Property, etc.): $3,000 – $10,000
• Marketing and Advertising: $5,000 – $15,000
• Loan Payments: $10,000 – $30,000
• Miscellaneous Expenses: $2,000 – $10,000

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: $73,000 – $190,000

Sample Examples of Profit per Sale (in USD)

• Standard Ticket Sale: $10
• Premium Ticket Sale: $15
• Concession Combo Sale: $12

Overall Profit Considerations:

Your overall profit will depend on the monthly sales you can generate and your actual profit per sale. It is essential to analyze and optimize both aspects to increase profitability.

These are fictitious examples to help you understand the issues to consider when planning to start your drive-in movie theater.

Adjusting costs and maximizing profit per sale can significantly impact the business’s success.

It’s important to note that many new businesses take time to become profitable as they build a customer base, reputation, and fine-tune operations.

Your actual figures will differ based on location, market conditions, and other factors.

Conduct thorough research and consider seeking professional advice when calculating your business’s startup costs, expenses, potential revenues, and profits.

5. Choosing The Right Business Location

Drive-In Movie Theater: Choosing the Right Location

Selecting the right location for your drive-in movie theater can be the deciding factor in the success or failure of your business.

Importance of Location:

Operating in an area with no demand for drive-in entertainment can lead to failure even before your theater opens.

On the other hand, setting up in an area with intense competition may make it challenging to gain a share of the market.

Ideal Location Considerations:

An ideal location strikes a balance, with sufficient demand and an acceptable level of competition.

Affordability is also crucial; while a highly populated area offers more exposure, ensure that the additional expenses won’t outweigh the profits.

Operating from Home:

For some business models, starting from home can be an option, especially for online-driven or less customer-facing ventures.

It provides flexibility and cost savings initially, and you can consider moving to a commercial location once the business expands.

Research and Planning:

Carefully research and analyze potential locations to make an informed decision.

Your chosen location will play a pivotal role in the success of your drive-in movie theater venture.

For more about business locations, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

6. Create Your Mission Statement

Overview: The Importance of a Mission Statement

A mission statement can guide your drive-in movie theater’s purpose and direction.

It keeps you focused on your primary goal and reminds you of the main benefit your theater offers to customers and the community.

Examples of Mission Statements for a Drive-In Movie Theater:

• “Our mission is to create memorable outdoor movie experiences that bring families and friends together, fostering a sense of nostalgia and community bonding.”
• “At our drive-in theater, we aim to provide a safe and entertaining space where movie enthusiasts can relish classic films under the stars, creating cherished moments for all ages.”
• “Our drive-in theater is committed to offering high-quality entertainment and exceptional customer service, contributing to the local cultural landscape and becoming a cherished gathering spot for our community.”

For more, see, How To Create a Mission Statement.

7. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Overview: The Role of Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) helps you identify and craft a distinctive aspect that sets your drive-in movie theater apart from competitors.

It enables you to create something special that appeals to customers and makes your business stand out in the market.

Examples of USPs for a Drive-In Movie Theater:

• “Our drive-in theater offers a themed ‘Dinner and a Movie’ experience, combining classic films with gourmet food offerings for a unique night out.”
• “Experience state-of-the-art technology at our drive-in theater, featuring the largest outdoor screen and premium audio-visual systems for unparalleled movie enjoyment.”
• “The first eco-friendly drive-in theater in the region, we prioritize sustainability by utilizing solar power and implementing green initiatives, making us a responsible choice for moviegoers.”

8. Choose a Business Name

Drive-In Movie Theater Business Name Ideas

When naming your drive-in movie theater, aim for a catchy and fitting name that’s easy to remember and pronounce.

Remember, business names are long-term commitments, so choose wisely.

Ensure the name has an available matching domain for your online presence and check for existing registrations to avoid conflicts.

• Starlight Cinema
• Moonbeam Drive-In
• Sunset Screenings
• Retro Flicks Drive-In
• Skyview Movies
• Twilight Drive-In
• Radiant Reels
• Starry Night Cinema
• Dreamland Drive-In
• Stellar Screens
• Luminous Movies
• Horizon Drive-In
• Cosmic Cinema
• Enchanting Drive-In
• Shimmering Silver Screens
• Celestial Theatre
• Mirage Drive-In
• Aurora Flicks
• Galaxy Grove
• Dusk Till Dawn Drive-In
• Constellation Cinema
• Luminary Movies
• Starstruck Drive-In
• Radiant Retro Theatre
• Sparkling Sky Screens
• Moonlit Matinees
• Stellar Vision Drive-In
• Twilight Tales Theatre
• Moonrise Movies
• Radiant Nights Drive-In

Consider these ideas to spark your creativity and come up with a unique and captivating name for your drive-in movie theater, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

9. Register Your Company

Ensuring Your Drive-In Movie Theater is Legally Compliant

It’s crucial to ensure your drive-in movie theater operates within the bounds of the law.

Consulting with a legal professional can help you navigate the complexities and ensure you have the best setup for tax benefits and liability protection.

Professional Consultation for Legal Compliance

Seeking advice from a legal expert familiar with the entertainment industry can safeguard your business and mitigate potential risks.

They can guide you through the necessary registrations and licenses required to run your drive-in theater smoothly.

Common Types of Registrations for a Drive-In Movie Theater

• Business Structure Registration: Choose the appropriate legal structure for your business, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation.
• Employer Identification Number (EIN): Obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax reporting purposes if you plan to hire employees.
• State and Local Business Permits: Check with your state and local authorities for specific business permits required to operate an outdoor entertainment venue.
• Sales Tax Registration: Register with the state’s tax department for collecting and remitting sales tax on ticket sales and concession revenue.

Permits and Licenses for a Drive-In Movie Theater

• Zoning and Land Use Permits: Check local zoning regulations to ensure your chosen location is suitable for a drive-in theater.
• Outdoor Movie Screening License: Obtain a license to legally screen copyrighted films from movie studios.
• Health and Safety Permits: Comply with health and safety standards for concession stands and public gatherings.
• Noise Permit: Depending on local regulations, you may need a noise permit for outdoor screenings.
• Alcohol License (If Applicable): If you plan to serve alcohol, acquire the necessary alcohol license from state authorities.
• Fire and Safety Inspection: Pass fire and safety inspections to ensure a safe environment for patrons.

By taking the necessary legal steps and obtaining the appropriate permits and licenses, you can run your drive-in movie theater with confidence, providing enjoyable and legally compliant entertainment to your audience.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

10. Create Your Corporate Identity

Drive-In Movie Theater: Corporate Identity

A Corporate Identity (Corporate ID) is a crucial aspect of your drive-in movie theater’s representation.

It encompasses multiple elements, including your logo, business cards, website, business sign, stationary, and promotional materials.

Having a consistent and professional Corporate ID is vital to leave a lasting impression on both new and existing customers.

It reinforces your brand image and creates a unified and memorable identity for your drive-in theater.

A well-designed Corporate ID can enhance your business’s credibility and attract a wider audience, helping you stand out in the entertainment market.

You can see our page for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

11. Writing a Business Plan

Drive-In Movie Theater: The Importance of a Business Plan

A business plan remains a vital document for your drive-in movie theater. It serves multiple purposes, including securing funding and attracting potential investors.

Moreover, it acts as a guiding blueprint, ensuring you stay on course during the startup phase and beyond.

Creating a Vision for Your Drive-In Theater

As you envision your theater’s future, crafting a comprehensive business plan takes time and effort.

Planning and detailing the operations require thoughtful consideration to outline a clear roadmap for success.

Worth the Effort

Though demanding, the effort invested in your business plan pays off.

The completed plan equips you with essential insights and a precise understanding of what’s needed to get started and how to operate your drive-in theater effectively.

Flexibility and Options

Remember, you have various options to create your business plan.

Active participation is crucial, whether writing it from scratch, hiring a professional, using a template, or employing business plan software.

If hiring a professional, ensure they effectively capture your unique vision and management style.

An Evolving Document

Your business plan isn’t fixed in stone. As you gain experience and the business matures, you can optimize and adapt the plan to changing circumstances.

Periodically review and update it to reflect your drive-in theater’s growth and future aspirations.

A dynamic and well-tailored business plan will be an invaluable asset in steering your venture toward success.

Business Plan Template: Drive-In Movie Theater

Executive Summary:

• Provide a concise overview of your drive-in movie theater business.
• Include the mission, vision, and key objectives.
• Highlight the market opportunity and competitive advantage.
• Mention the financial projections and funding requirements.

Company Description:

• Explain the nature of your business (drive-in movie theater).
• Share the history, founders, and key team members.
• Define your unique selling proposition (USP).
• Mention the location and target market.

Market Analysis:

• Conduct a comprehensive market research on the drive-in theater industry.
• Identify your target audience and their preferences.
• Analyze the local and regional market trends.
• Assess the competition and highlight your differentiators.

Marketing and Sales Strategies:

• Describe your marketing and promotional plans to attract customers.
• Outline your online and offline marketing channels.
• Detail your sales strategies and ticket pricing model.
• Discuss any partnerships or collaborations for increased visibility.

Products and Services:

• List the movie genres you plan to showcase.
• Describe any additional services (food, beverages, etc.).
• Mention any unique features or events you’ll offer.

Operations and Management:

• Explain how the drive-in theater will operate.
• Outline the screening schedule and operating hours.
• Detail the staff roles and responsibilities.
• Include a brief overview of the management team’s expertise.

SWOT Analysis:

• Conduct a SWOT analysis of your drive-in movie theater.
• Identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Provide strategies to leverage strengths and address weaknesses.

Financial Projections:

• Present a detailed financial forecast for the next 3-5 years.
• Include projected revenue, expenses, and profit margins.
• Calculate the break-even point and return on investment (ROI).
• Provide assumptions and methodologies used in the projections.

Funding Request:

• State the amount of funding required for starting or expanding the business.
• Explain how the funds will be utilized (e.g., equipment, marketing, infrastructure).
• Discuss potential funding sources (e.g., loans, investors, personal capital).

Appendices:

• Include any additional information that supports your business plan.
• Attach market research data, licenses, permits, and legal documents.
• Add any other relevant materials like architectural plans or partnership agreements.

Conclusion:

• Summarize the key points from the business plan.
• Reiterate the value proposition and potential growth.
• Encourage the reader to support or invest in your drive-in movie theater.

Remember to keep the business plan clear, concise, and well-organized. Use accurate data and research to support your assumptions and strategies.

Tailor the template to fit your specific drive-in movie theater concept and location. Additionally, seek professional advice and ensure the financial projections are realistic and achievable.

For information on creating your business plan, see, How to Write a Business Plan.

12. Banking Considerations

Drive-In Movie Theater Financial Management

When setting up your drive-in movie theater, consider choosing a nearby bank that caters to small businesses.

Having a separate business account is essential, especially for sole proprietorships.

It ensures a clear separation between business and personal expenses, simplifying expense tracking, bookkeeping, and providing tax audit documentation.

Developing a professional relationship with your banker is beneficial as they can offer valuable advice and financial services, streamlining your application processes.

Additionally, consider applying for a merchant account or a similar setup to accept credit and debit cards, providing convenient payment options for your customers.

Efficient financial management will contribute to the smooth operation of your drive-in movie theater business.

For more, see, How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at, What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

13. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Getting Funding for Your Drive-In Movie Theater

If you require financial assistance to launch your drive-in movie theater, consider the tips in this section for securing a loan.

Obtaining Startup and Operational Funds:

Getting the necessary funds to start and operate your drive-in movie theater is crucial for a successful launch and sustained operation.

Funding Options:

Several funding options are available to support your drive-in movie theater, including traditional lenders, private loans, seeking investors, selling assets, and using collateral.

Meeting with a Loan Officer: Considerations

When meeting with a loan officer to discuss funding, keep the following considerations in mind:

• Clearly present your business plan and financial projections.
• Demonstrate a solid understanding of the drive-in movie theater industry.
• Highlight your experience or expertise in the entertainment or hospitality sector.
• Be prepared to discuss your collateral options and repayment plans.

Sample List of Documents for a Business Loan Application:

• Business Plan with detailed financial projections.
• Personal and business credit history.
• Proof of collateral (if applicable).
• Tax returns for the previous three years.
• Bank statements and financial statements.
• Legal documents, such as business licenses and permits.
• Personal identification and business registration documents.
• Proof of industry experience or relevant qualifications.

Gathering the necessary documents and being well-prepared for the loan application process increases your chances of securing the funding needed to launch and grow your drive-in movie theater business.

See, Getting a Small Business Loan for more.

14. Software Setup

Software Considerations for Your Drive-In Movie Theater

Researching and selecting the right software is crucial for your drive-in movie theater’s smooth operation.

Implementing a program from the beginning is easier than switching to a new system after your data is already in another program.

Look for established companies with a reliable history, ensuring future support.

Key Points to Consider:

• Software Functionality: Research software that suits your specific needs, such as ticketing, reservations, and customer management systems.
• User-Friendly Interface: Look for software with a user-friendly interface to streamline staff training and daily operations.
• Demo and Reviews: Explore available demos and read reviews and forums to gauge user experiences and software performance.
• Financial Management Software: Consider software for tracking expenses and preparing financial documents for tax filing. Consult with your bookkeeper or accountant for the right accounting software.

List of Software to Consider for a Drive-In Movie Theater:

• Ticketing and Reservation Systems: Examples include Eventbrite, Ticketmaster, or Square.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: Look into HubSpot, Salesforce, or Zoho CRM.
• Financial Management Software: Consider QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks for expense tracking and tax preparation.
• Point-of-Sale (POS) Software: Explore Square POS, Toast, or Lightspeed for seamless transactions.
• Audio-Visual Systems: Research Drive-In theater-specific software for audio-visual control and playback.
• Website and Online Booking Platforms: Look into WordPress, Wix, or Shopify for creating a user-friendly online presence.

Thoroughly researching and selecting appropriate software will optimize your drive-in movie theater’s efficiency and customer experience.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a drive-in movie theater.

15. Get The Right Business Insurance

Insurance Considerations for Your Drive-In Movie Theater

Incidents can occur unexpectedly, making it essential to have the right insurance coverage in place before any activities begin at your drive-in movie theater.

Protecting your customers, employees, property, and yourself is crucial for your business’s security and continuity.

Key Concerns When Seeking Insurance:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Ensure the insurance policy provides comprehensive coverage for various risks, including accidents, property damage, and liability claims.
• Customer and Employee Protection: Verify that the insurance covers customer injuries and employee-related incidents that may arise during theater operations.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Consider obtaining professional liability insurance to safeguard against potential lawsuits related to movie screenings or event organization.
• Interruption Insurance: Evaluate the benefits of interruption insurance, which can be a lifeline in the event of an involuntary shutdown due to unforeseen incidents.
• Home-Based Business Considerations: If you plan to run the theater from your home, communicate this with your home insurance agent to prevent any conflicts or nullification of existing home insurance coverage.
• Informed Decision with an Insurance Broker: Utilize a competent insurance broker to guide you through the insurance options available and ensure you have adequate coverage tailored to your drive-in movie theater’s needs.

Taking these considerations into account when seeking insurance coverage will protect your drive-in movie theater from potential risks and give you peace of mind during its operations.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for drive-in movie theater insurance .

16. Suppliers, Service Providers and Inventory

Drive-In Movie Theater: Selecting Suppliers

List of possible Items and Services to Source from Suppliers:

• Projection Equipment: Projectors, screens, and audio systems for movie screenings.
• Concession Supplies: Food, beverages, popcorn machines, and serving equipment.
• Ticketing Systems: Software or hardware for efficient ticket sales and entry management.
• Furniture and Infrastructure: Seating arrangements, outdoor furniture, and signage.
• Lighting and Sound Equipment: Equipment to create a captivating movie-watching experience.
• Event Management Services: External support for organizing special events or themed nights.

Building Strong Supplier Relationships:

Having reliable and trustworthy suppliers is crucial for your drive-in movie theater’s success.

Strong relationships can lead to competitive prices, allowing you to offer cost savings to customers and increase your profit margin.

Consistent stock availability ensures smooth operations, enabling you to deliver an enjoyable movie experience.

Inventory Management:

Focus on products that align with customer preferences and offer a diverse selection to appeal to a broader audience and enhance value.

Controlling inventory levels is vital; excessive stock ties up funds that could be better used elsewhere, while insufficient stock leads to lost sales.

Be mindful of product expiry dates to avoid carrying items with approaching expiration.

Balance and Efficiency:

Strive to strike a balance in inventory management, ensuring you have the right stock at the right time.

This approach will optimize your drive-in movie theater’s offerings, increase customer satisfaction, and contribute to the overall success of your business.

For More See, How To Choose a Supplier.

17. Physical Setup

Layout: Drive-In Movie Theater Physical Setup

The physical setup of a drive-in movie theater is a crucial aspect of creating a memorable and enjoyable movie-watching experience.

A typical drive-in theater layout includes a large outdoor space for parking vehicles facing a large movie screen. Some key points to consider in the layout are:

• Screen Placement: Strategically position the movie screen to ensure optimal viewing angles for all parked vehicles.
• Parking Area: Designate a spacious and organized parking area with clear lanes for easy navigation.
• Projection Booth: Set up a projection booth or area to house the necessary equipment for movie screenings.
• Concession Area: Allocate a dedicated space for concession stands offering food and beverages to moviegoers.
• Amenities: Provide clean and accessible restroom facilities for the convenience of patrons.
• Customer Movement: Plan for smooth customer movement from ticketing to parking and concessions.

Signage: Drive-In Movie Theater Signage Setup

Effective signage is essential for guiding and enhancing the overall experience of moviegoers at a drive-in theater.

Along with the main business sign, consider placing signs at all relevant locations, such as exits, and special areas.

Well-designed signage serves the following purposes:

• Directional Guidance: Directs patrons to ticketing, parking areas, and exits for a seamless experience.
• Safety and Information: Provides important safety information and event guidelines for moviegoers.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates professionalism in your operation and instills confidence in your audience.

Office Setup: Organized and Efficient

A well-organized office is vital for effectively managing your drive-in movie theater business.

As most of your time will be spent in the office handling various tasks, ensuring it is fully equipped and structured is essential for productivity.

Consider the following elements for your office setup:

• Essential Equipment: Furnish the office with necessary tools, such as computers, printers, and communication devices.
• Storage Solutions: Install adequate storage units to keep important documents and supplies organized.
• Comfort and Ergonomics: Create a comfortable workspace with ergonomic furniture to support long hours of work.
• Functional Layout: Arrange the office layout to promote efficient workflow and easy access to essential items.

An organized office not only boosts productivity but also contributes to the smooth operation and management of your drive-in movie theater business.

See, Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office, for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

The Benefits of Having a Website for Your Drive-In Movie Theater

Having a website for your drive-in movie theater offers numerous advantages, enhancing your business’s online presence and customer engagement.

Key Benefits:

• Online Visibility: A website allows your drive-in movie theater to be accessible to potential customers 24/7, providing information about showtimes, special events, and promotions.
• Customer Convenience: Moviegoers can easily check movie schedules, buy tickets, and access relevant information from the comfort of their homes or mobile devices.
• Movie Reviews and Information: Your website can feature reviews and detailed information about each movie, without spoilers, helping customers make informed decisions about what to watch.
• Marketing Tool: Your website serves as a powerful marketing tool, enabling you to showcase your unique offerings and attract new customers.
• Building Expertise: Utilize your website to establish yourself as an industry expert. Through regular blogging, share valuable tips and insights tailored to your audience, fostering trust and credibility.
• Customer Engagement: Engage with your audience through interactive features, such as feedback forms and social media integration, fostering a sense of community.
• Increased Sales: By building trust and providing valuable content, your website can lead to increased customer loyalty and higher ticket sales.
• Branding: Your website reflects your brand identity, promoting the drive-in movie theater’s ambiance and unique experience.
• Data Collection: Gather valuable data on customer preferences and behaviors, helping you make informed business decisions and tailor offerings.
• Accessibility: Your website caters to a broader audience, including potential tourists or visitors from distant areas, expanding your customer reach.

Having a website is an essential aspect of modern business, leveraging the digital landscape to connect with your audience, increase brand loyalty, and drive business growth for your drive-in movie theater.

The website’s versatility allows you to provide movie reviews and information without revealing spoilers, ensuring an enhanced and user-friendly experience for your customers.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

Building Your External Support Team for Your Drive-In Movie Theater

Having a reliable external support team of professionals is essential for your drive-in movie theater’s success.

These professionals offer valuable advice and services without being on your payroll, allowing you to access specialized expertise as needed.

• Diverse Expertise: Your support team can consist of professionals with diverse skills, including accountants, lawyers, financial advisors, marketing specialists, technical advisors, and consultants.
• Flexible Engagement: Utilize their services on an as-needed basis, whether it’s for specific projects, tasks, on a contract, hourly, or retainer basis.
• Building Relationships: Building strong professional relationships with your support team takes time. Start by focusing on individuals you already work with and consider adding new members as your business grows.
• Ongoing Development: Continuously work on strengthening your team by identifying professionals who can provide valuable insights and assistance when you need them.

Having a well-structured external support team ensures you can access expert advice and guidance whenever necessary.

Whether it’s financial planning, legal matters, marketing strategies, or technical expertise, your support team plays a crucial role in the smooth operation and growth of your drive-in movie theater.

For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

Running a Drive-In Movie Theater: Hiring Employees and Job Positions

Hiring Employees for Growth:

Initially, managing everything on your own can help reduce costs, but as your drive-in movie theater grows, hiring employees becomes crucial to handle the increasing workload and ensure smooth operations.

Hiring qualified individuals with strong work ethics is essential for improved productivity and business efficiency.

Job Positions or Outsourced Services to Consider as Your Drive-In Movie Theater Grows:

• Projectionist: Responsible for operating and maintaining projection equipment during movie screenings.
• Concession Staff: Manages the food and beverage stands, serving customers with efficiency and excellent service.
• Ticketing Staff: Handles ticket sales and entry management for a seamless customer experience.
• Marketing Specialist: Develops and executes marketing strategies to attract a larger audience and promote special events.
• Customer Service Representative: Engages with moviegoers, addressing inquiries, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Maintenance Crew: Keeps the premises clean and well-maintained, including restrooms and parking areas.
• Event Coordinator: Organizes special events and themed movie nights to enhance the overall movie-watching experience.
• Accountant: Manages financial records, payroll, and tax-related matters.
• Security Personnel: Ensures the safety and security of patrons and the property during movie screenings.
• Technical Support: Provides technical assistance for equipment and technology used in the drive-in theater.

As your drive-in movie theater grows, these positions or outsourced services play a vital role in maintaining high-quality operations and offering an enjoyable experience for your customers.

Hiring the right team ensures your business thrives in the competitive entertainment industry.

For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee.

Points To Consider

Hours of operation:.

Drive-In Movie Theater Hours of Operation:

• Evening Hours: Drive-in movie theaters typically operate during the evening hours when it gets dark enough to project the movies onto the screen. The exact timing may vary based on the season and location.
• Weekends: Weekends are prime movie-watching times for many people. Consider extending your hours of operation on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights to accommodate higher customer demand.
• Special Events: Plan for special events or themed movie nights that may require extended hours to cater to specific audiences or movie genres.
• Holiday Hours: During holidays and long weekends, consider offering special movie screenings or extended hours to attract more customers.
• Summer Season: The summer season is particularly popular for drive-in movie theaters. Consider opening earlier in the evening to attract families and providing entertainment during daylight hours.
• Concession Hours: Ensure that your concession stands are open during movie screenings to provide refreshments to customers.
• Online Ticketing: Consider offering online ticketing options that allow customers to purchase tickets in advance and arrive closer to movie time, reducing the need for physical ticket booths.
• Closing Time: Set a clear closing time based on the latest movie screening to ensure a smooth and efficient operation for both staff and customers.
• Weather Considerations: Be prepared to adjust hours of operation in case of inclement weather. Rain or extreme weather conditions may necessitate rescheduling or canceling movie screenings.
• Off-Season Hours: During off-peak seasons, such as colder months or weekdays with lower demand, adjust your hours accordingly to optimize operational costs.

Always keep customer preferences and local regulations in mind when determining your drive-in movie theater’s hours of operation.

Flexibility in scheduling will allow you to cater to a broader audience and enhance the overall movie-watching experience.

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Drive-In Movie Theater:

A drive-in movie theater business requires a combination of audio-visual equipment, infrastructure, and amenities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for attendees.

Below is a detailed list of equipment and tools you might need:

1. Audio-Visual Equipment:

• Digital movie projector suitable for outdoor use.
• Spare projector bulbs.
• Projection booth or protective housing to keep the projector safe from the elements and unauthorized access.
• Projection screen: Large, white, and sturdy to withstand wind and weather. Depending on the location and size, you may opt for a permanent or inflatable screen.
• Video playback devices, e.g., Blu-ray player, DVD player, media streaming devices, etc.
• Computer/laptop for running advertisements or trailers.
• FM transmitter system: To broadcast audio to car radios.
• Outdoor speaker system for those who prefer not to use their car radios.
• Microphone for making announcements.

2. Infrastructure:

• Gates or barriers to manage car traffic.
• Ticket booths for selling or checking tickets.
• Kiosks for ticket verification or handheld ticket scanners.
• Drive lanes and parking grid lines to guide vehicles efficiently.
• Elevated platforms or mounds to ensure cars at the back have a clear view.
• Gravel or paved surfaces, depending on the budget and desired aesthetics.
• Electrical supply and backup generators.
• Wi-Fi system for card payments or potential streaming.
• Entrance and exit lighting.
• Low-level ambient lighting for safety and navigation, ensuring minimal disruption to the movie experience.
• Emergency lighting.

3. Concessions & Amenities:

• Concession stands or food trucks for selling snacks and drinks.
• Popcorn machines.
• Hot dog grills or ovens.
• Beverage coolers or refrigerators.
• Coffee machines.
• Ice machines.
• Cash registers or Point of Sale (POS) systems.
• Portable toilets or permanent restrooms.
• Hand washing stations or hand sanitizers.
• Trash cans and recycling bins.
• Dumpster for large-scale waste disposal.

4. Safety & Security:

• Surveillance cameras.
• Security personnel or guards.
• Fencing or barriers to delineate the property.
• Fire extinguishers.
• First aid kits.
• Emergency exit signs.

5. Miscellaneous:

• Walkie-talkies for staff communication.
• Directional signs.
• Movie schedule boards.
• Rules and guidelines for attendees.
• Ground maintenance tools: brooms, leaf blowers, etc.
• Repair tools for various equipment.

While this list provides a comprehensive overview of the equipment required, the specific needs can vary based on the size of the drive-in, location, and target audience.

Before starting, it would be wise to conduct thorough market research and consult with industry experts or existing drive-in theater operators.

Marketing Considerations

Attracting Customers to Your Drive-In Movie Theater: A Crucial Business Strategy

A drive-in movie theater’s success hinges on attracting customers to experience the unique entertainment it offers. Initially, as a new operation, building awareness among the audience can be challenging.

However, with time and a positive reputation, attracting customers becomes more manageable, especially with increased marketing experience.

Key Points:

• Continuous Marketing Efforts: Marketing your drive-in movie theater is an ongoing process that requires consistent efforts to maintain visibility and attract new patrons.
• Investing in Marketing: The more you invest in effective marketing techniques, the higher your potential revenue and customer base.
• In-House Marketing vs. Hiring Professionals: While you may not always need a marketing agency, consider seeking their expertise when you find the right fit to boost your promotional efforts.
• Creating Awareness: Simplify your marketing process by focusing on creating awareness about your drive-in theater and its unique offerings. Seize every opportunity to promote your business and attract new customers.
• Digital Marketing: Utilize digital marketing channels such as social media, email campaigns, and online advertising to reach a broader audience and engage with potential moviegoers.
• Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to cross-promote and expand your customer reach.
• Special Events and Promotions: Host special events, themed movie nights, and exclusive promotions to create buzz and excitement, enticing more people to visit your drive-in theater.

Remember that marketing plays a pivotal role in driving the success of your drive-in movie theater.

As you implement effective marketing strategies and build your brand reputation, you will witness a steady influx of customers who seek the unique and nostalgic experience your drive-in theater provides.

As a starting point, see the article below.

See our article How To Get Customers Through the Door

Potential Business Partners for Referral Arrangements:

• Local Restaurants and Food Trucks: Collaborate with nearby eateries to offer dining packages for moviegoers, where they can enjoy a meal before or after the movie. In return, they can refer their customers to your drive-in movie theater.
• Hotels and Accommodations: Partner with hotels and lodging facilities to offer exclusive movie and accommodation packages for out-of-town visitors. They can recommend your drive-in theater to their guests, and you can refer guests to their establishment.
• Auto Dealerships and Car Rental Agencies: Establish partnerships with car-related businesses to offer special deals for customers interested in experiencing a drive-in movie night. They can promote your theater to their clientele, and you can refer customers looking for a new car or rental services.
• Local Event Planners: Collaborate with event planners to host private movie screenings for corporate events, birthdays, or special occasions. They can recommend your theater for entertainment options, and you can refer your customers to their event planning services.
• Community Centers and Clubs: Form alliances with community centers, social clubs, or recreational facilities to promote your drive-in movie theater as a fun outing for their members. In return, you can refer your audience to their events and activities.
• Schools and Educational Institutions: Partner with schools and colleges to organize movie nights for students or family events. They can endorse your theater to their student body and parents, and you can refer students and families to their educational programs or extracurricular activities.
• Local Tourist Attractions: Collaborate with popular tourist attractions to offer combined ticket packages that include a visit to their attraction and a movie night at your drive-in theater. They can refer tourists to your theater, and you can refer your audience to their attractions.

Remember, when approaching potential business partners for referral arrangements, focus on mutually beneficial opportunities that add value to both businesses and their customers.

Referral fees, cross-promotions, and other incentives can help create fruitful partnerships and drive more customers to your drive-in movie theater while supporting other local businesses.

Marketing Offers

Ideas to Attract New Customers:

• First-Time Visitor Discount: Offer a special discount or free concession item for first-time visitors to encourage them to experience your drive-in movie theater.
• Family Night Deals: Create family-friendly packages with discounted tickets and snacks for families looking for affordable entertainment options.
• Date Night Specials: Appeal to couples with date night promotions that include discounted tickets and romantic setups.
• Group Rates: Offer discounted rates for larger groups or parties, such as school outings, corporate events, or birthday celebrations.
• Combo Packages: Bundle movie tickets with concession items like popcorn and drinks to provide customers with a complete movie-watching experience.
• Seasonal Themes: Organize special movie nights based on holidays or seasonal themes, attracting audiences with unique and engaging content.

Ideas to Retain Existing Customers:

• Membership Programs: Introduce loyalty programs or membership cards that offer perks, such as discounted tickets, exclusive screenings, or priority parking for frequent visitors.
• Customer Appreciation Days: Host special events or movie nights dedicated to showing appreciation for your loyal customers with complimentary snacks or prizes.
• Referral Rewards: Incentivize existing customers to refer their friends and family by offering discounts or free tickets for successful referrals.
• Advance Screenings: Provide early access to movie screenings for your loyal customers as a token of gratitude.
• Customer Feedback Incentives: Encourage customers to provide feedback on their experience in exchange for the chance to win prizes or gift cards.
• Special Promotions for Returning Customers: Offer exclusive promotions or sneak peeks for movies to customers who have visited multiple times.

By implementing these attractive offers, you can not only entice new customers to visit your drive-in movie theater but also build lasting relationships with your existing audience, ensuring they continue to enjoy the unique movie-watching experience you provide.

Sample Ad Ideas:

Newspaper Display Ads:

1. Headline: “Nostalgia Meets Modern Cinema!”

Dive into the magic of the past while enjoying today’s blockbuster hits. Our drive-in movie theater is an escape from the everyday.

Cold drinks, tasty snacks, and your favorite films under the stars. This weekend, make memories. Join us!

2. Headline: “Stars Above, Stars On Screen!”

There’s no experience quite like it. Watch Hollywood’s best surrounded by a canopy of twinkling stars.

Our state-of-the-art audio ensures crystal-clear sound right in your car. Fresh popcorn awaits!

3. Headline: “Date Night, Elevated!”

Rekindle romance or start a new spark. The most unique date night in town is at our drive-in theater. Delight in our snack bar treats and cuddle up for a movie adventure. Book now!

4. Headline: “Family Time, Amplified!”

Imagine your kids’ excitement watching a movie outdoors! Our family-friendly selections and comfortable ambiance guarantee a night to remember. Kids under 10? They’re on us!

5. Headline: “Epic Films, Open Skies!”

Why be boxed in when the world’s a stage? Join us for an unparalleled cinematic journey, paired with classic movie snacks and the vast night sky. Lights, camera, action – outdoors!

Google PPC Ads:

1. “Experience Cinema Outdoors!  Top Hits at Our Drive-In Tonight. Book Now.”

2. “Under the Stars Cinema  – Modern Films, Classic Drive-In Vibes. Click to See Showtimes!”

3. “Best Date Night Idea!  Unique Drive-In Movie Experience. Reserve Your Spot Now.”

4. “Retro Movie Night Out!  Popcorn, Classic Flicks, and Starry Skies Await. Get Tickets.”

5. “Outdoor Movie Magic  – Safe, Fun & Memorable. Check Out This Week’s Lineup.”

6. “Drive, Park & Watch!  Experience Top Films Outdoors. Click for Special Offers.”

7. “Get Your Film Fix, Alfresco!  Newest Releases at Our Drive-In. Discover More.”

8. “Kids Love Our Outdoor Cinema!  Family-Friendly Titles & Deals. Find Out More.”

9. “Switch Up Movie Night!  Fresh Air, Big Screen. See What’s Playing.”

10. “Relive the Drive-In Days  – Modern Tech, Old-School Charm. Book Your Experience.”

These ads should be tailored further based on the specific offerings, specials, or events at the drive-in theater for maximum effectiveness.

Simple Marketing Ideas 

Simple Methods to Promote Your Drive-In Movie Theater:

• Social Media Marketing: Utilize popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X to post engaging content, share upcoming movie schedules, and interact with your audience.
• Local Listings and Directories: Ensure your drive-in theater is listed on online directories, such as Google My Business and Yelp, to enhance your visibility in local searches.
• Flyers and Posters: Distribute eye-catching flyers and posters in high-traffic areas, local businesses, and community centers to inform people about your drive-in theater.
• Email Marketing: Collect email addresses from your customers and send regular newsletters with movie updates, special offers, and upcoming events.
• Collaborate with Local Influencers: Partner with local influencers, bloggers, or community leaders who can share their experience at your drive-in theater and reach a wider audience.
• Public Relations: Write press releases and reach out to local media outlets to cover exciting events or new movie screenings at your theater.
• Cross-Promotions: Collaborate with nearby businesses to cross-promote each other’s offerings, such as offering discounts to their customers in exchange for promoting your drive-in theater.
• Outdoor Signage: Install attractive and visible signs around your theater location to attract passersby and inform them about upcoming movie showings.
• Online Ticketing Platforms: List your movie screenings on online ticketing platforms to reach a broader audience and make it easier for customers to purchase tickets.
• Special Events and Contests: Host themed events, movie marathons, or contests to create buzz and excitement around your drive-in theater.
• Local Partnerships: Partner with local organizations, schools, or community centers to host movie nights and expand your reach to their audience.
• Car Window Stickers: Offer branded car window stickers to customers, turning them into mobile advertisements when they drive around town.

By implementing these simple yet effective marketing methods, you can effectively spread the word about your drive-in movie theater and attract a steady flow of moviegoers to enjoy the unique cinematic experience you provide.

See our marketing section for articles that will provide ideas to bring awareness to your business.

It’s vital to assess your skill set to determine if you possess the necessary abilities to operate a successful drive-in movie theater.

Recognize areas where you may lack expertise and either acquire the required skills or hire capable individuals to fill those gaps.

Essential Skills for a Drive-In Movie Theater Owner:

• Business Management: Efficiently manage day-to-day operations, finances, and staff to ensure smooth functioning.
• Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer experiences and build strong relationships with patrons.
• Marketing and Promotion: Effectively promote the theater and attract a diverse audience through creative marketing strategies.
• Event Planning: Organize and execute special events, movie premieres, and themed nights to enhance customer engagement.
• Financial Literacy: Understand financial statements, budgeting, and forecasting to maintain financial stability.
• Digital Proficiency: Utilize technology for online ticketing, social media marketing, and communication with customers.
• Film Selection: Curate an appealing movie lineup that caters to the target audience and ensures successful screenings.
• Problem-Solving: Address challenges promptly and make informed decisions to resolve issues.
• Leadership: Lead and motivate the team to achieve business objectives and foster a positive work environment.
• Negotiation and Networking: Forge partnerships with suppliers, local businesses, and event organizers to strengthen the theater’s position in the community.

Remember, continuous learning and adaptation are essential in any business venture, and acquiring these skills can greatly contribute to the success of your drive-in movie theater.

Expert Tips

Examining expert tips can enhance your skill set, benefiting both seasoned professionals and beginners.

Experts may discover more efficient methods or gain fresh insights into techniques.

Novices can acquire numerous tips to enhance their skills and knowledge significantly. Embracing expert advice fosters continuous growth and improvement in any field.

See the latest search results for expert drive-in movie theater tips to gain tips and insights.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Harness the power of knowledge for your drive-in movie theater!

Explore a wealth of industry-related information available online.

Follow the links in the sections below to access valuable resources that will aid you in your research, startup phase, and ongoing operations.

Stay informed and make informed decisions for your drive-in movie theater’s success.

Trends and Statistics

Analyzing industry trends and statistics for your drive-in movie theater offers valuable insights.

It helps you understand customer preferences, adapt to changing demands, and make informed decisions for sustained growth and success.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the drive-in movie theater industry.

Drive-In Movie Theater Associations

Trade associations provide valuable benefits, such as industry news updates and networking opportunities.

Events organized by associations offer additional advantages, fostering valuable connections and knowledge-sharing within the drive-in movie theater community.

See the search results related to drive-in movie theater associations.

Top Drive-In Movie Theaters

Examining an established drive-in movie theater can spark innovative ideas to fill industry gaps or identify overlooked aspects in your own business.

Observing successful practices can inspire improvements and drive your drive-in theater’s growth and competitiveness.

See the latest search results for the top drive-in movie theaters.

The Future of the Drive-In Movie Theater Industry

Researching the industry’s future offers invaluable advantages to aspiring drive-in movie theater owners.

Understanding upcoming trends, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences helps create a solid foundation for a successful and sustainable business venture.

See the search results for the future of the drive-in movie theater industry.

Researching industry prices is crucial for aspiring drive-in movie theater owners.

Understanding market rates for equipment, supplies, and services allows informed budgeting and pricing strategies, ensuring a competitive and profitable business.

See the latest drive-in movie theater prices.

Drive-In Movie Theaters for Sale

Considering an existing drive-in movie theater has its pros and cons:

Benefits of Buying an Established Drive-In Movie Theater:

• Immediate Revenue Generation.
• Skips the Startup Phase.
• Proven Business Model.
• Clear Financial Performance.
• Existing Customer Base.
• Established Reputation.

Disadvantages of Purchasing an Existing Drive-In Movie Theater:

• Higher Initial Cost Due to Goodwill.
• Potential Loss of Customers if Changing Operations.
• Inheriting Both Good and Bad Reputation.

Even if a perfect match isn’t available, exploring the industry’s existing offerings can provide valuable insights for prospective buyers. Use the provided link to explore available options in the same industry.

Businesses for sale: See the latest results for a drive-in movie theater and others related to this business model.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Drive-In Movie Theater

Purchasing a drive-in movie theater franchise presents both advantages and disadvantages, making it worthy of exploration before venturing into business.

Additionally, exploring franchise opportunities might reveal related concepts for your drive-in theater venture.

Pros of Buying a Drive-In Movie Theater Franchise:

• Proven Business Model with Corporate Guidance.
• Leverage Existing Reputation and Marketing Efforts.
• Comprehensive Understanding of Business Operations.
• Ongoing Support from the Corporate Office.

Cons of Purchasing a Drive-In Movie Theater Franchise:

• Higher Initial Investment.
• Limited Autonomy for Major Changes Without Corporate Approval.
• Restricted to Approved Products and Services.
• Bound by the Franchise Agreement Terms.
• Ongoing Franchise Fees.

Even if an exact match isn’t available, explore franchises within the same industry using the provided link.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Customer Expectations

Examining search results for customer expectations for Drive-In Movie Theaters provides valuable insights from a customer’s viewpoint.

Understanding their desires and preferences allows you to meet and surpass expectations.

This process reveals potential blind spots and opportunities to enhance your offerings comprehensively.

See the search results related to customer expectations for Drive-In Movie Theater.

Drive-In Movie Theater Insights

Reviewing tips and insights can spark innovative ideas, reveal pitfalls to avoid, and enhance your knowledge in the drive-in movie theater industry.

It’s a valuable way to stay informed and make informed decisions for the success of your business.

See the latest search results leading to resources about  Drive-In Movie Theater Insights.

Drive-In Movie Theater Publications

Publications offer an excellent means to stay updated with the latest information about drive-in movie theaters.

They provide valuable insights, industry trends, and essential news to keep your business informed and thriving.

See the search results for Drive-In Movie Theater Publications.

Drive-In Movie Theater Forums

Participating in drive-in movie theater forums fosters discussions and industry relationships.

Moreover, it grants valuable customer perspectives, offering invaluable insights to understand their needs and preferences.

See the latest search results related to Drive-In Movie Theater Forums.

Drive-In Movie Theater Blogs

Subscribing to drive-in movie theater blogs keeps you updated and inspired within the industry.

By subscribing to various blogs and curating the best, you ensure a valuable collection that delivers a constant flow of relevant information and ideas.

Look at the latest search results for drive-in movie theater blogs to follow.

Drive-In Movie Theater News

Following the news keeps you informed about the Drive-In Movie Theater industry and related topics.

Set up alerts to receive notifications on relevant stories, ensuring you stay up-to-date with the latest developments.

Watching videos about the drive-in movie theater industry provides valuable tips, insights, and familiarity with the business.

YouTube’s related videos can introduce additional relevant topics that you might not have considered before.

See the links to YouTube Videos Below.

• Videos related to starting a drive-in movie theater can be found here.

For More Business Ideas, See our Collection of Business Ideas.

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Start a Drive-In Movie Theater

Be the Conductor of Starlit Movie Nights: Your Drive-In Theater Journey Starts Here

DRIVE-IN MOVIE THEATER

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How to Start a Drive in Movie Theater in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   January 26, 2024

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Drive-in movie theaters are growing rapidly, with a $5.2 billion global evaluation in 2022 . A projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2023 to 2032 makes this a great time to get involved.

By combining entertainment with fresh air and allowing customers to remain socially distant in their vehicles, drive-in theaters are well-positioned to thrive in the coming years. Though drive-in movies peaked in popularity in the 1950s and 60s, the concept is proving relevant again for modern audiences seeking safe and novel amusement options.

This guide will walk you through how to start a drive in movie theater. Topics cover market research, customer focus, registering an EIN, obtaining business insurance, forming a legal business entity, and more.

1. Conduct Drive in Movie Theater Market Research

Market research is integral to starting a business in the entertainment industry. It offers insight into your target market, and trends in services such as themed movie nights, competitors, and more.

Some details you’ll learn through market research include:

• Profitability can vary greatly based on factors like location, number of screens, programming, and amenities.
• Prime real estate and highly marketed multi-screen drive-ins tend to see stronger revenues.
• There are still many markets, especially higher-density urban and suburban areas, where drive-ins could thrive but remain absent.
• As media outlets have declared a “drive-in revival”, these markets present strong opportunities for new theater openings.
• PwC research on the entertainment industry shows consumers increasingly mixing digital and real-world experiences.
• Drive-ins present a unique hybrid experience that plays upon themes of nostalgia and novelty while providing an inexpensive outdoor entertainment option.
• The main challenges to profitability are the availability and cost of suitable real estate, competition from mainstream cinemas, and weather issues in certain geographies.
• Mitigating strategies include focusing on highly visible highway adjacent plots, differentiation through creative programming and events, and developing contingency plans for rainouts and extremes.

In summary, the industry data shows drive-in movies are far from their former glory but have stabilized and seen renewed consumer interest. For entrepreneurs able to secure affordable real estate in strategic locations, creative programming, and effective marketing provide avenues to tap into this demand and build a thriving theater business.

2. Analyze the Competition

Understanding the competitive landscape is crucial when assessing the viability of a new drive-in movie theater . Entrepreneurs should first identify existing drive-ins and traditional cinemas operating in the intended geographic area.

Euromonitor Passport provides databases to research key players in a given industry and region. Local business directories, Chambers of Commerce, and state licensing offices also compile useful competitive data.

With their direct competitors mapped, drive-in owners can analyze factors like several screens, car capacity, programming, amenities, pricing, and events. Visiting theaters in person provides additional insights into operational efficiency, customer experience, and site layout.

Evaluating the online presence of competitors is equally important. Their website content, functionality, and SEO impact how easy they are to find and research. Social media following and engagement reveal their digital marketing success.

Monitoring review sites like Yelp and Google Business Profiles highlights customer sentiment, common complaints, and gaps in service. New drive-in owners should ensure they sufficiently address these weaknesses in their own business.

While drive-ins compete for entertainment spending, they can differentiate by offering unique programming like retro classics, cult favorites, and kids’ movies. Many also host flea markets, concerts, and other non-cinematic events. New drive-in owners should identify unmet niche demands in their market.

Analyzing both traditional competitors and their digital experiences provides a crucial perspective on customer expectations and areas of opportunity. With these insights, new drive-in owners can strategically position their theater to stand out.

3. Costs to Start a Drive-in Movie Theater Business

Starting a drive-in theater requires a significant upfront investment to secure real estate, equipment, and licenses.

Start-up Costs

• Land Purchase – For prime parcels near highways or in high-traffic areas, land may cost $500,000 to $1 million+. Leasing can lower initial costs but increases ongoing expenses.
• Construction – New build costs can range from $500,000 to $2 million+ depending on site prep, number of screens/snack bars, parking spaces needed, etc. Retrofitting existing plots also requires significant investment.
• Projection & Sound Equipment – New digital projectors run $70,000 to $100,000 each. FM transmitters for audio average $3,000 to $5,000 per screen. Expect at least $150,000+ for a basic single-screen theater.
• Concession Equipment – From popcorn poppers to nacho cheese dispensers, basic concession equipment can cost $20,000 or more. Additional investments will be needed for stand-alone snack bars.
• Permits & Licenses – Include zoning permits, business licenses, liquor licenses, music licenses, and more. These will cost a few thousand dollars based on location.
• Initial Marketing – Print/radio ads, billboards, website development, and signage to announce the opening will run $15,000 to $30,000 depending on the extent of the campaigns.
• Working Capital – Have at least 6 months of operating capital on hand. For a 500-car single-screen theater budget $100,000.

Ongoing Costs

• Mortgage/Rent – Expect $3,000 per month for a land lease. Mortgage payments often top $15,000 per month.
• Staffing – With concession workers and ticket takers, basic staffing for a single screen may cost $40,000 annually. For larger theaters, $200,000 is common.
• Utilities – Electric, gas, water, and phone bills can easily exceed $2,000 per month.
• Insurance – Property, liability, worker’s comp. Can cost $10,000 per year.
• Film Licensing – Ranges from $300 to $800 per title based on expected attendance and box office take.
• Equipment Maintenance – Projectors need expensive bulb replacements every 1,500-2,000 hours. Budget $5,000 per year per screen.
• Concession Supplies – 30% of gross revenue may go to food, drink, and paper costs. $2,000+ per month is likely for a single screen.
• Marketing – Ongoing print, radio, and social media ads. $5,000 to $10,000 per year.
• Taxes/Licensing – Income taxes, annual business fees. Budget at least $5,000 per year.

With land acquisition being the primary cost driver, total start-up investment for a basic single-screen drive-in with a capacity for 500+ cars may range from $750,000 to $2 million. Ongoing expenses can exceed $250,000 per year excluding loan payments and cost of goods sold.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

To operate a drive in, part of your business plan should focus on forming a legal business entity that best suits your business model. There are four main entities, sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, and corporation.

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common structure for small businesses with one owner. However, the owner assumes unlimited personal liability for debts and legal actions against the business. This substantial risk makes a sole proprietorship ill-advised for a high-liability business like a drive-in theater.

Partnership

A partnership splits ownership between two or more people, providing more capital and management resources. However, partners also share unlimited personal liability. Partnership disputes can also disrupt operations. While partnerships do allow for pass-through taxation, the risks outweigh the benefits for most drive-in theater owners.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC provides liability protection for owners while allowing pass-through taxation if structured properly. Profits and losses pass to the owners’ tax returns. Unlike sole proprietors and partnerships, owners have no personal liability beyond their investment in the LLC under normal circumstances.

Corporation

A corporation offers the strongest liability protection but also faces double taxation on profits. Complex record-keeping and reporting requirements also apply. Ownership shares can be sold through stocks without disrupting operations. For drive-ins unlikely to sell publicly traded shares soon, the additional paperwork provides limited advantages over an LLC.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique tax ID number used to identify a business entity. The IRS requires all businesses, including sole proprietors, to obtain an EIN for tax reporting purposes. This applies to drive-in theaters as well.

Applying for an EIN is free and can be completed online in minutes at IRS.gov . Simply provide basic information about your drive-in business such as name, address, and ownership structure. An EIN is generated immediately upon submitting the online form.

The EIN replaces your Social Security number for tax filing and reporting. This protects your personal information and establishes your business as a separate legal entity. An EIN will be required to open business bank accounts, apply for licenses, and complete other administrative steps.

In addition to a federal EIN, drive-in theaters need to register with their state revenue department to collect and remit sales tax. Sales tax rates vary significantly by location, with some states exempting food sales.

The sales tax registration process involves submitting a simple form along with your EIN. Any costs are minimal. Once registered, you must collect state and local sales tax on taxable transactions and submit regular payments to the revenue department.

Properly obtaining an EIN and sales tax license ensures your drive-in theater complies with tax reporting requirements. The online EIN application through IRS.gov takes just minutes. Don’t let these basic registrations slow down your drive-in’s opening. With an EIN and sales tax ID, you can operate legally and focus on providing an exceptional entertainment experience.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Proper accounting is crucial for drive-in theater success. With significant upfront investments and ongoing operating expenses, keeping accurate financial records is imperative. This starts with using accounting software. Let’s break down different ways to enhance your drive in accounting.

Accounting Software

QuickBooks helps drive-ins seamlessly categorize expenses like mortgage payments, concession inventory, and film licensing fees. Integrations with bank accounts, credit cards, and POS systems allow for automated transaction importing to save time. Custom reports provide insight into sales, profitability, and tax liabilities.

Hire an Accountant

While software handles much of the daily accounting workload, partnering with an accountant provides expertise no program can replicate. A full-service accountant handles tasks like payroll, monthly reconciliations, sales tax filings, and compliance paperwork. Expect to invest around $500-$1,000 per month for these services.

Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping business and personal finances completely separate is also critical. Mixing expenditures invites major headaches at tax time and legal liability concerns. Open dedicated bank accounts and credit cards solely for your drive-in.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Applying for a small business credit card is straightforward when armed with your company’s financial statements and projections. Limits will be lower than personal cards but can provide flexibility in covering large upfront purchases.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Navigating licensing requirements is crucial when starting a drive-in theater. Failure to secure proper permits opens the business to fines, delays, and even closure. Find federal license information through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state and city requirements.

Common licenses and permits include:

• Zoning Permit: Confirm the property is zoned for commercial use and specifically allows a theater. Zoning laws vary widely. If not properly zoned already, a lengthy special permit process may be required.
• Building Permit: Required for any structural construction on the site. Ensures plans meet code for electrical, plumbing, accessibility, etc. Any changes to restrooms or snack bars also need permits.
• Occupancy Permit: Verifies the property meets safety regulations for its proposed maximum capacity. May require inspections of fire exits, bathroom facilities, parking layouts, and more.
• Health Department Permit: For any on-site food service, even pre-packaged snacks and drinks. Confirms proper refrigeration, prep areas, and hygiene protocols. Regular inspections occur after opening.
• Liquor License: If serving alcohol, approved liquor licensing is mandatory. Often prohibits liquor sales to minors regardless of parental consent. Requires designated servers.
• Business License: Generic license to legally operate as a business. Fees and requirements vary significantly across regions. Some cities have additional theater-specific licensing.
• Film License: Outgained through studios or third parties. Required to screen movies. Fees are based on expected attendance and box office revenue.
• Music License: Covers any music played over speakers, including before shows or during intermission.

Consulting local governments to identify all required permits avoids preventable delays that can sink a theater launch. Some licenses like liquor or special use permits require hearings and substantial lead time. By proactively satisfying legal obligations, owners can focus on bringing memorable movie nights to their community.

8. Get Business Insurance

Carrying proper insurance is crucial to protecting a drive-in theater against unexpected disasters. Without adequate coverage, a single incident could destroy the business.

Consider these risk scenarios:

• A projector catches fire destroys the projection booth and damages a screen. Without insurance, repairs could cost $100,000 out of pocket.
• A customer trips in a pothole on the lot and sues for serious injury. Legal fees and medical settlement without insurance could easily exceed $500,000.
• A severe storm destroys key equipment like a concession stand or movie screens. Replacing these without insurance requires covering the full cost.

The right insurance policies mitigate these threats. Core recommended coverages include:

• Property insurance covers buildings, equipment, and inventory. Can offset costs from theft, vandalism, storms, fires, and more.
• Liability insurance protects against injury lawsuits from customers. Covers legal defense costs and settlement payments.
• Business interruption pays for income lost due to closure from covered incidents. Keeps revenue flowing during repairs.

The process of getting insured involves researching providers, comparing quotes for desired coverage, purchasing a policy online or through an agent, and providing supporting details on business operations. Expect costs between $2,000-$10,000 annually based on the extent of coverage.

Don’t let an uninsured catastrophe derail your drive-in dreams. The right insurance provides peace of mind so you can focus on building a thriving theater business.

9. Create an Office Space

Having a designated office space provides drive-in owners with key infrastructure for administrative tasks like booking films, managing payroll, and fielding customer inquiries. While a home office offers convenience and minimal costs, separate professional spaces provide advantages as the business grows.

Home Office

For sole proprietors, a home office keeps costs low while allowing proximity for urgent matters. Simple secondhand furnishings and a dedicated internet line may be all that’s needed at first. As the workload expands, a lack of separation from home life can hinder productivity.

Coworking Space

Shared, flexible coworking spaces like WeWork offer affordable office infrastructure as needed. Open desk rentals provide seating, WiFi, printing, conference rooms, and more. They facilitate meetings with vendors and allow employees to collaborate efficiently. However, distractions can be common in shared environments.

Retail Office

For theaters with on-site box offices, converting excess space into a private office provides security, room for storage, and easy access for staff. However, for single or limited-screen theaters, excess retail space may not be cost-effective.

Commercial Office

Leasing a traditional office provides the most professional atmosphere when meeting clients and investors. With flexible lease terms readily available, commercial offices offer easy scalability. The downside is increased overhead and commute times relative to other options.

10. Source Your Equipment

Launching a drive-in theater requires procuring essential equipment like projection systems, concession machines, and stereo transmitters. Savvy entrepreneurs have four main options to access the necessary gear: buying new, buying used, renting, and leasing.

Direct from equipment manufacturers, new systems offer cutting-edge features and modern warranties. Top brands like Cretors and Davis provide turnkey projection, food service, and audio solutions specifically for drive-ins. Expect costs of $250,000+ for a full single-screen setup.

Buying Used

Websites like eBay and Facebook Marketplace list pre-owned equipment at a fraction of the original prices. Thrift and diligence can yield like-new systems. Be prepared to replace outdated components. Inspect equipment thoroughly before purchase.

Many theater suppliers offer short-term rentals on projectors, audio devices, concession machines, and more. This allows flexibility for one-off or traveling events. Delivery fees and deposits also apply. Not ideal for permanent theaters due to higher long-term costs.

Some equipment companies lease systems long-term for steady monthly payments, minimizing large upfront capital costs. Maintenance and insurance may be included. Ownership transfers after the leasing period. Ideal for expensive systems like digital projectors which carry technology upgrade risks.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Creating a strong brand identity is crucial for drive-in theater success. With memorable branding, savvy marketing, and well-designed assets, theaters can build community recognition and loyalty.

Get a Business Phone Number

Having a dedicated business phone line via services like RingCentral provides a professional first impression when customers call. A permanent number also enables easy promotion across other assets.

Design a Logo

A polished logo lies at the heart of memorable branding. Given the visual nature of movies, drive-ins should consider iconic, illustrative logo marks. Resources like Looka provide affordable custom design access.

Pairing the logo with branded templates, signage, websites, and business cards creates instant recognizability. Well-designed banners and entrance signs make the theater stand out.

Print Business Cards

Business cards enable owners to network and get the word out about their theater. Providers like Vistaprint offer quick, affordable printing with many customization options.

Buy a Domain Name

Securing a branded domain name and building a promotional website is also vital. Domain registrars like Namecheap make buying a custom URL easy.

Design a Website

Owners can choose to build their site themselves via user-friendly platforms like Wix or hire web developers through services like Fiverr for custom coding. Either option should yield an attractive, conversion-focused site.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Joining relevant organizations and networks provides invaluable connections and insights for drive-in theater owners. At both the local and national levels, these groups offer mentorship, education, and promotional support.

Local Associations

Local theater owner associations like the United Drive-In Theatre Owners Association facilitate sharing best practices between regional competitors. Trade secrets on efficiency, programming, and concessions are freely exchanged. Local PR opportunities also arise by collectively supporting charity events.

Local Meetups

Attending regional small business meetups expands your network beyond just theater owners. Sites like Meetup list frequent free events to mingle with fellow entrepreneurs from all industries. Brainstorming challenges and new ideas inspire innovation.

Facebook Groups

Nationwide communities on Facebook provide 24/7 idea sharing and troubleshooting. For drive-ins, groups like Drive In Movie Theater Fan Club and Nostalgic Drive-In Movie Theaters – Fun Memories have thousands of members.

13. How to Market a Drive-in Movie Theater Business

Implementing an effective marketing strategy is essential for drive-in owners to fill screening nights and build lasting community awareness. With smart digital promotion, word-of-mouth referrals, and selective traditional advertising, new theaters can thrive.

Personal Networking

Tap into your network first. Opening night invites to friends and family spread excitement and help fill the lot. Satisfied initial customers can become brand advocates who organically recommend the theater to others. Consider loyalty programs that reward referrals with free tickets or concessions.

Digital Marketing

Digital platforms provide targeted, cost-effective promotion:

• Run Google/Facebook ads geotargeting local moviegoers. Focus ad creative on retro nostalgia and outdoor entertainment.
• Start a YouTube channel posting teasers for upcoming films. Embed these on your site.
• Leverage email collection to send promotions and updates to customers. Offer exclusive pre-sales or deals.
• Engage audiences on social media with reviews, trivia, and nostalgic drive-in photos.
• Blog about classic films and concessions to bolster SEO and provide value.

Traditional Marketing

Traditional options can boost visibility, but come at higher costs:

• Place eye-catching promotional signage along nearby high-traffic roads.
• Distribute printable monthly film calendars to local businesses.
• Take out ads in local newspapers and magazines. Focus ad copy on the experience.
• Sponsor public radio announcements to raise awareness. Feature opening dates or specific events.
• Rent a mobile billboard truck to circle neighborhoods with theater teasers.

A multifaceted approach maximizes reach and conversion across all demographics. Lean on word-of-mouth and digital engagement to build an audience economically. Sprinkle in targeted traditional promotion for mass awareness. With smart marketing, new drive-ins can thrive even in the digital streaming era.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing exceptional customer service is crucial for drive-in theaters to keep guests coming back and spreading positive word-of-mouth referrals. In an age of online reviews, experiential businesses thrive or fail based on service reputation.

Theaters should train staff to be courteous and attentive when interacting with patrons. A friendly ticket booth attendant who provides a smooth payment process and answers questions sets the tone for the night. Some ways to increase customer focus at your drive in theater business include:

Concession workers should be prompt and accurate when filling orders to minimize waiting. Personally thanking each guest makes them feel valued.

During the showings, staff should periodically check the lot to see if assistance is needed, whether jump-starting a stalled car or providing extra blankets on a chilly night.

Following up via email with a discount offer for future visits turns one-time moviegoers into loyal fans. They’ll fondly recall the great service when recommending the theater to friends.

Online review monitoring also enables identifying and addressing any service problems. Swiftly responding to negative reviews prevents isolated issues from spiraling.

Drive-ins compete not just on film selection, but on the entire entertainment experience. With customer-focused service driving referrals and repeat visits, owners can build lasting community success.

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Theater Business Plan

The popularity of theater remains intact for the immersive entertainment experience it offers. It is indeed a rewarding business if it continues to evolve with emerging trends.

Anyone can start a theater but it takes a visioned entrepreneur to turn it into a lucrative business opportunity. A detailed business plan can help you get started, raise funds and stay profitable.

Need help writing a business plan for your theater? You’re at the right place. Our theater business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How To Write A Theater Business Plan?

Writing a theater business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your Business:

Start your executive summary by briefly introducing your business to your readers.

Market Opportunity:

Theater services:.

Highlight the theater services you offer your clients. The USPs and differentiators you offer are always a plus.

Marketing & Sales Strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business Description:

Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:

Describe what kind of theater you run and the name of it. You may specialize in one of the following theaters:

• Multiplex theater
• IMAX theater
• Drive-in theater
• Art house theater
• Microcinema
• Describe the legal structure of your theater, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission Statement:

Business history:.

If you’re an established theater service provider, briefly describe your business history, like—when it was founded, how it evolved over time, etc.

Future Goals

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of services they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.

Market size and growth potential:

Describe your market size and growth potential and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.

Competitive Analysis:

Market trends:.

Analyze emerging trends in the industry, such as technology disruptions, changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the trends.

Regulatory Environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your theater business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your services:

Mention the theater services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Movie screening services
• Food and Beverages ( concession stands)
• Private screening
• Special screenings

Mention the food and beverages you will offer at your theater. The list may include,

• Cold drinks
• Alcoholic Beverages

Quality measures

: This section should explain how you maintain quality standards and consistently provide the highest quality service.

Additional Services

In short, this section of your theater plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the unique services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.

Pricing Strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your movie theater business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your theater, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & Training:

Operational process:, equipment & machinery:.

Include the list of equipment and machinery required for the theater, such as screens, audio-visual technology, accessibility equipment, cleaning and maintenance equipment, etc.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your theater’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founders/CEO:

Key managers:.

Introduce your management and key members of your team, and explain their roles and responsibilities.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

Mentioning advisors or consultants in your business plans adds credibility to your business idea.

This section should describe the key personnel for your theater services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.

Financing Needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the theater industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your theater business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample theater business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful theater plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our theater business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a theater business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful theater business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your theater company.

How to get funding for your theater business?

There are several ways to get funding for your theater business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought startup options.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

How detailed should the financial projections be in my theater business plan?

The level of detail of the financial projections of your theater business may vary considering various business aspects like direct and indirect competition, pricing, and operational efficiency. However, your financial projections must be comprehensive enough to demonstrate a comprehensive view of your financial performance.

Generally, the statements included in a business plan offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.

What key components should a theater business plan include?

The following are the key components your theater business plan must include:

• Executive summary
• Business Overview
• Market Analysis
• Products and services
• Sales and marketing strategies
• Operations plan
• Management team
• Financial plan

Can a good theater business plan help me secure funding?

Indeed. A well-crafted theater business will help your investors better understand your business domain, market trends, strategies, business financials, and growth potential—helping them make better financial decisions.

So, if you have a profitable and investable business, a comprehensive business plan can certainly help you secure your business funding.

What's the importance of a marketing strategy in a theater business plan?

Marketing strategy is a key component of your theater business plan. Whether it is about achieving certain business goals or helping your investors understand your plan to maximize their return on investment—an impactful marketing strategy is the way to do it!

Here are a few pointers to help you understand the importance of having an impactful marketing strategy:

• It provides your business an edge over your competitors.
• It helps investors better understand your business and growth potential.
• It helps you develop products with the best profit potential.
• It helps you set accurate pricing for your products or services.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Movie Theater Business Plan

Start your own movie theater business plan

Falls River Theatre

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Falls River is a smaller town that lost its only movie theatre over 10 years ago. Since then, residents wishing to enjoy a night out at the movies have to drive about 30 miles to a theatre. And once they get to the theatre, it is usually a large antiseptic mega-plex, void of character.

The Falls River Theatre will provide the residents of Falls River with a long-awaited, hometown movie theatre. The films shown will be second run releases of the most popular movies in two target markets: families and young adults. The building that will house the facility is the historic old theatre building, built in 1936 and long-time home to the town’s acting companies. Since its closing it has been used only occassionally for community functions. Before its grand re-opening, the owners will restore the building to its former glory as one of the town’s main destinations for evening entertainment.

The two owners, Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman have the skills, expertise and capital to make this theatre succeed. Samantha has successfully managed a large movie house for seven years, developing skills in theatre management and movie selection while establishing important relationships with key people in the industry. Steve has the skills and ability to restore and upgrade the building so that it will be comfortable and welcoming.

With an substantial initial investment by the owners, we see modest profits by year two.

1.1 Keys to Success

• Proper film selection for the audience and the theater’s environment.
• Revenues from a mix of both traditional movie fare and other quality snacks and beverages.
• Careful management of internal finances to control costs.
• Great customer service.

1.2 Objectives

• Healthy sales in the first year, more than doubling by year three.
• Excellent revenues from concessions.
• Modest by stable profit margin by year two.

1.3 Mission

Falls River Theatre’s mission is to give our customers a big city entertainment experience in a small town. Our customers will relax in comfort and watch high-quality presentations of popular second-run movies, all within a short walk or drive from home. This is a convenience that Falls River residents have had to do without since the local theatre closed eleven years ago.

We aim to please the local community (who can wait a few weeks to see their favorite movies and don’t want to pay big city, new release prices). We will also provide our customers with satisfying and reasonably priced snack foods and beverages.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

The Falls River Theatre, a movie house with two screens and a capacity of 400, is located on Main Street in downtown Falls River, Wisconsin. Falls River, population 12,000, has been without a local movie theatre since 1992 when the old theatre, The Kinnick, closed down due to the death of its long time owner and the lack of an interested successor. Since that time, interested movie-goers in Falls River have had to drive 45 miles to the outskirts of Madison to go to a movie.

2.1 Company Ownership

The Falls River Theatre will begin operations as a sole proprietorship, owned and operated by its two founders: Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman.

2.2 Start-up Summary

Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman will be the main investors and operators of the Falls River Theatre. Samantha has been managing a multiplex theatre in Madison for the past seven years, gaining valuable experience while she looked for an opportunity to run her own theatre. Steve has been working part-time as a contractor/handy man in the local community.

The building where the theatre will be housed has been vacant, except for the occasional rental to a community group, since the closing of the former business. This has made the building’s owners anxious to collect a regular check, so they have agreed to rent the entire building for $900 per month for the first three years. There are some repairs and upgrades needed, especially in the balcony and snack bar areas. The founders will be responsible for those repairs and those estimates are included in the start-up expenses.

The Falls River Theatre will provide comfortable seating for its customers to view high quality, second run movies. The theatre’s management will be aided in movie selection by being able to see how movies have fared in their initial run, especially those that have shown success in the theatre’s two target markets: families and young adults. With two theatres in which to show movies, both markets can be targeted at the same time with minimal cannibalization.

A variety of quality, reasonably priced snack items and beverages will keep customers satisfied during their movie experience. The founders understand that the entire experience can be jeopardized by poor customer service and will seek to hire only the most customer service oriented personnel.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

The Falls River Theatre is located in downtown Falls River, the shopping and entertainment center of town. This provides easy access for every resident of Falls River and a viable entertainment option any night of the week. The local business community has shown great support for a theatre since it would keep residents, and their spending dollars, in the community instead of one of the surrounding communities. A typical family (there are about 2,300 on Falls River) can expect to save approximately $48 for a night out at the movies by coming to a local theatre. This savings, along with quality movie selection, should keep people coming back regularly.

4.1 Market Segmentation

• Families – this segment focuses on adults and parents with younger children who don’t need to see the latest movies on release and seek an inexpensive, quality, family-oriented entertainment experience.
• Young adults – this segment is comprised of the 16-24 year old age group. This group is interested in seeing comedy and action/adventure type movies that are not directed at the younger and family markets.

4.2 Service Business Analysis

The Falls River community has been in need of a local movie house since the closure of its only theatre eleven years ago. With the closest movie complex located 45 miles away, movie goers options are limited – either a round trip drive of over 90 miles or in home rentals. For people who enjoy the big screen, neither offers a satisfying experience. The Falls River Theatre can satisfy those needs with quality movies in a comfortable, old-style movie theatre.

4.2.1 Competition and Buying Patterns

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4.3 Target Market Segment Strategy

These two market segments, families and young adults, are targeted specifically because they comprise the two largest segments of Falls River’s population. The Falls River Theatre is determined to be a community-oriented business and seeks to serve as much of the population as possible. With a small college in town, there is an ample student market, consumers who often have limited transportation options.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

The strategy is simple: provide fair-priced, quality entertainment close to home for the two markets that comprise the bulk of Falls River’s population.

5.1 Competitive Edge

Falls River Theatre has a distinct competitive edge in that it is the only movie theatre within 45 miles of Falls River. There are no plans at this time to build a theatre complex in the town and, since the theatre will occupy the town’s only building capable of effectively housing a theatre, there is limited direct competition. Competition will come mainly from several multi-plex theatres located in Madison, the closest being 45 miles from Falls River.

To ensure that Falls River residents are pleased with the products offered, the theatre will rely on the expertise of Samantha, who has seven years of successful theatre management experience. Since she began managing the theatre in Madison ticket sales have grown at a consistent 4% annually. This is in part due to her skills in movie selection and her emphasis on customer service. Once the theatre is up and running, her time will be devoted to movie selection, staff hiring and supervision, theatre marketing, and ordering for the snack bar.

Samantha has also developed strong relationships with several movie booking agents serving the Wisconsin area and has already negotiated an agreement. The agreement has the booking agents collecting 60% of the first year’s admission revenues. Each year after that the percentage will be reduced by 1.5% through year 5 when it stabilizes at 54%.

Steve has strong construction skills and is considered a craftsman by his peers. Initially his talents will be used to restore the theatre from its current state of slight disrepair into the town’s main attraction for evening entertainment. Once the restoration is complete, Steve will transition into a part-time role, maintaining the facility and equipment, working the counter and ticket booth, and eventually, ordering concession items.

5.2 Marketing Strategy

Falls River is a small enough town that word gets around quickly. We anticipate that a buzz will be created once the renovations begin. Excitement will build as the grand opening approaches. To encourage that excitement, we will have a countdown to opening on the building’s marquee. Concurrently, advertisements in both the local newspaper and the college’s daily will promote the opening with coupons for free items from the snack bar. Since a large share of profits will come from concessions, we want to let people know about our tasty snacks. Finally, we will use our website to keep our customers, especially the more web salvy college students, updated on the movie selection, which will change every two weeks.

5.3 Sales Strategy

The Falls River Theatre will appeal to two segments of the market:

• Adults and parents with children who seek local, fair-priced evening entertainment aimed at the whole family.
• Young adults who are interested in seeing recent releases but are constrained by an inability or unwillingness to travel.

The main sales strategy is to provide recent successful movie releases that appeal to both audiences. With two theatres, we will be able to target both segments simultaneously.

Ticket prices will be $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12.

5.3.1 Sales Forecast

Sales will increase among both target segments as word spreads around town and to the surrounding communities. The increase in concession sales reflects the increased attendance. Concession sales are based on an average of $2.50 spent per ticket purchase.

5.4 Milestones

Steve will begin the theatre’s restoration in mid-January. Samantha will still be working with the theatre in Madison but will be able to contribute as-needed. Steve’s work will start inside, repairing and upgrading the facility as necessary. The main theatre’s balcony needs reinforcement. Repairs and upgrades to the concession area are also necessary. Painting will put the finishing touches on the interior of the structure. Finally, the interior should be fully restored by mid-March, once the upholstery repairs are finished.

By that time Samantha will have more time to begin work on the website, marketing materials and film selection. The weather should be turning better which will allow Steve to move outdoors to work on the front of the building. Minor repairs are needed on the marquee. A fresh coat of paint will prepare the building for customers. Samantha will also order any equipment for the concession area (some equipment is already in place and is useable), begin the hiring process and start the marketing. Finally, Steve will install the projection equipment and prepare for the grand opening.

Web Plan Summary

The website will be very simple. Its main purpose is to communicate to our customers what movies are showing at what times with links to each movie’s website and reviews. The design will feature an image of the theatre along with the a list of current movies and those that are coming soon and will be small enough to quickly load on most home computers. Since the movies will change every other week, maintenance should be fairly straight-forward. Arrangements have been made with both the local and college newspapers for links to our web site from theirs.

6.1 Website Marketing Strategy

The website address will be printed on tickets and it will be prominently placed on advertisements that we will run in the local paper.

6.2 Development Requirements

Development requirements are minimal, since the site will only be a few pages. The site will be built by a local website development firm. Once it has been created, the founders will be responsible for updating it with the latest movie listing each week. It is expected that this will take no longer than 1 -2 hours each week.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

Steve’s main responsibility will be to manage and execute the theatre’s restoration. Once that task is complete and the theatre is open for business, Steve will manage the maintenance of the building and work part-time in customer service (selling concessions) and ordering.

7.1 Personnel Plan

We believe that the key to customer service is happy employees. We will invest in a good team by compensating our part-time employees fairly.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The following sections outline the financial analysis for Falls River Theatre.

8.1 Important Assumptions

The following shows the important General Assumptions for Falls River Theatre.

8.2 Break-even Analysis

The following Break-even Analysis shows the monthly break-even point.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

The following table and charts show the Projected Profit and Loss for Falls River Theatre.

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

The two founders will be the sole investors. Samantha Farmer and Steve Brinksman will invest, both in early January.

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The following table illustrates Falls River Theatre’s Projected Balance Sheet.

8.6 Business Ratios

Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios are based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7832, [motion picture theatres, except drive-ins].

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Movie Theater Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Movie Theater Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their movie theaters. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a movie theater business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Movie Theater Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your movie theater as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Movie Theater

If you’re looking to start a movie theater, or grow your existing theater, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your movie theater in order to improve your chances of success. Your movie theater business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Movie Theater Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a movie theater are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings is the other most common form of funding for a movie theater. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for movie theaters.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a movie theater.

If you want to start a theater or expand your current one, you need a business plan. In the following movie theater business plan template, we detail what you should include in your own business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of movie theater facility you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a movie theater that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of movie theaters?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the movie theater industry. Discuss the type of movie theater you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target market. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of movie theater company you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of movie theaters:

• First-Run Movie Theater : this type of business focuses on screening films that have just been released.
• Discount Movie Theater: this type of business screens films in their second run, meaning they have been released for a while. This is a good option for theaters that are older, smaller, less updated, or are located in a less desirable neighborhood.
• Art House Theater: this type of business screens films that were intended to be serious artistic works as opposed to films made primarily for entertainment.

In addition to explaining the type of movie theater you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of tickets sold, number of positive reviews, total number of movies screened, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the movie theater industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section:

• How big is the industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your movie theater company? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: families, university students, young professionals, budget-conscious moviegoers, and people with a higher education or interest in art.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of business you operate. Clearly, families would respond to different marketing promotions than young professionals or university students, for example.

Try to break out your target market in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most movie theaters primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other movie theaters.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes online streaming services and video rental retailers. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other movie theaters with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be movie theaters located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of movies do they screen?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide more comfortable seating, a better audiovisual experience or better concessions?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a movie theater business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of movie theater company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to screening films, will you provide concessions, alcoholic beverages (where legal) or arcade games?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your movie theater company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your movie theatre business located in a busy retail district, shopping plaza, mall, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your movie theater marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your theater, including selling tickets, taking tickets, cleaning theaters, operating film screenings.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sell your 100,000th ticket, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your movie theater company to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your movie theater’s ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing movie theaters. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing theaters or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you sell 3,000 tickets per day or per month? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your movie theater, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a movie theater:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your theater location lease or timetables for movies you are screening.  

Putting together a business plan for your movie theater is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the movie theater industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful movie theater.  

Movie Theater Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my movie theater business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Movie Theater Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of movie theater  business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a movie theater business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of movie theater businesses?

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Drive-In Theater Business Plan

Drive-in theater business plan presentation, premium google slides theme and powerpoint template.

Going to the drive-in theater is a perfect plan! For a romantic date or to go with your friends. All you need is a car, of course, and a lot of enthusiasm to see the movie. From Slidesgo, we also bring you a perfect plan, in this case a business plan about a drive-in theater. Just add your content and let the movie begin!

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Entertainment | Surprise! The 88 Drive-In Theatre returns this…

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Entertainment, entertainment | surprise the 88 drive-in theatre returns this weekend in commerce city, the 48-year-old exhibitor had first said it would not come back in 2024.

The 48-year-old drive-in — the last of its kind in the metro area — posted on Facebook on May 4 that it would return on Friday, May 10, for the summer season with the double-feature of “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” and “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.”

“Mark your calendars ’cause we’re back on May 10th!” the account wrote in a video post .

The drive-in’s owners could not be reached for comment Tuesday, but Commerce City spokesman Travis Huntington said a deal to sell and develop the drive-in had seemingly stalled, leaving the original owners of the 8780 Rosemary St. property still in charge.

He was not aware of any current plans to rezone or sell the property.

The owners of the Irondale neighborhood site had originally said they were getting out of the business to make way for a potential 80,500-square-foot industrial warehouse on the property. The theater, which opened in 1972, has been owned since 1976 by the same family — including current owner Susan Kochevar.

Tickets for 88 Drive-In shows are only sold at the box office for $10 per person. The box office opens at 7:30 p.m., with this weekend’s Friday-Sunday starting at 8:15 p.m. (“Godzilla”) and 10 p.m. (“Ghostbusters”).

The best part? Kids 12 and under still get in for free. Call 303-287-7717 or visit 88drivein.net for more.

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Local drive-in theater suffering from slow opening to season, owner says

A drive-in-theater in Henry County has had one of the slowest openings to a season in quite some time.

Donna Saunders, co-owner of the Field of Dreams Drive-In Theater , says the entire drive-in industry is hurting. She said there are estimates that in 2022, only 300 drive-in theaters were still in operation in the U.S. and that 20 of those have closed this year.

"There used to be over 4,000 drive-ins in the United States," she said.

Saunders also says that sales at the theater, which has been open about four miles northeast of Liberty Center since 2007, have decreased since the COVID-19 pandemic, despite it staying busy during the pandemic itself.

She attributes declining drive-in sales nationwide to younger generations not knowing the unique viewing experiences the theaters have to offer and that most do double features.

"I really think we're in a point where we need to do some education for masses out there, the people under 50 years old, to let them know what a drive-in is and to help them understand that you get to see two movies for one low price when you come to a drive-in," Saunders said.

Field of Dreams, like most drive-ins, Saunders said, doesn't make much money from the box office admission tickets. The majority of that money goes to the studios to pay for licensing fees for the movies.

"If people don't buy food from the concession stand, the theater is not going to stay in business," she said.

Saunders is optimistic that Field of Dreams will rebound and keep a nearly two-decade-old tradition going. 

"We're still operating. We're still showing double features," she said. "To get our Facebook friends to help us share that message and let people know that we are open and we're looking forward to entertaining them very soon."

Tickets are $10 for people 13 years old and older. Kids 12 years old and younger are free with a paying adult.

Coming attractions at former Delaware drive-in theater: 6 buildings in business park

A long-vacant drive-in theater north of Felton may be featuring six small businesses in the shadow of the still-standing movie screen.

Property owner Felton Drive-In LLC and president Jeffrey Garrison have proposed a business/industrial park on 8.16 acres where the former theater showed animated films “Bolt” and “Madagascar 2” at its final screening about 16 years ago.

The site is on the west side of Route 13 at 9758 S. Dupont Highway south of Plymouth Road.

Plans include six buildings, 9,750 square feet each, for a total of 58,500 square feet, said Mike Riemann, engineer for the project from Becker Morgan Group. The maximum building height will be 30 feet.

The buildings are designed to serve local contractors and small businesses, he said.

Most of the land is vacant except for the movie screen, a house and another building. The screen and building will be demolished, but the home will remain for now on part of the site slated for possible commercial development closer to the highway. The six buildings in the business/industrial park will be farther west of Route 13.

The county regional planning commission approved the site plan application 7-0 April 11.

“I think it’s a great improvement,” commissioner Paul Davis said. “You’ve done a wonderful job. It’s been an abandoned place for a while.”

More Dover-area business news: 5 new restaurants feature Mexican dishes, pizza and a cookie bakery

Why has the site been abandoned for so long?

Riemann said the owner requested that the county extend sewer lines to the property. Tidewater Utilities will provide water.

“That’s probably why this property sat vacant. It really didn’t have water and sewer,” Riemann said.

The land is zoned “general business” which allows a business/industrial park. The county’s comprehensive plan designates the area as highway commercial, so the proposed use complies.

No fire sprinklers are required because each building is under 10,000 square feet, but the site will have a fire system with water lines looping the site and fire hydrants. The fire lanes meet or exceed requirements.

The site will have two stormwater areas totaling 32,803 square feet. Landscaping includes new trees in addition to the existing trees as a buffer to neighboring properties, along with trees and shrubs around the parking areas.

Disagreement on parking

As for parking, 59 spaces are required, but the owner is providing 80 spaces.

The county’s planning staff recommended a place for overflow parking in case a business such as a brewery moves in and holds events that might require more spaces.

Riemann said there are already 21 more spaces than required, and if a venture like a brewery is proposed, then parking for that business can be addressed by the county at that time.

County Planning Director Sarah Keifer said the recommendation for overflow parking is an advisory, meant to “build in as much flexibility as possible because we want them to succeed,” but the final approval is up to the planning commission.

The entrance and exit will be on Route 13 south, with a right-in entrance and right-out exit. A right turn lane will be built.

Memories of the former drive-in

The Diamond State Drive-In opened in 1949, according to the Cinema Treasures website . In 1966, the theater was renamed the Hi-Way 13 Drive-In which closed in 1985. Ten years later, a new owner reopened the business with the original name, Diamond State Drive-In, which closed in 2008.

“I actually went to a movie there when it tried to reopen,” Riemann said at the April 11 planning commission meeting.

Commission chairman William Jester said he remembers that time.

“The lines were a mile long out on the highway,” Jester said, adding that he was surprised the business didn’t survive.

The rise and fall of drive-ins

The closing of the Diamond State Drive-In mirrored the decline in popularity of drive-in theaters across the country. When it went out of business in 2008, it was the last one in Delaware.

Another company opened a drive-in near Bear in 2021, but it only lasted a year.

More on former Bear drive-in: Get your popcorn ready: Bear's first drive-in theater to debut in a few weeks

According to the New York Film Academy website , drive-in theaters date back to the 1910s. But they really took off in the 1950s and '60s with the World War II generation and the first wave of Baby Boomers. The number climbed to over 4,000, mostly in rural areas.

During the oil crisis in the 1970s, the Film Academy said “people downsized their cars in order to save money on the inflated cost of gas, making it uncomfortable to watch movies at the drive-in. To make up for lost revenue, drive-ins began losing their family-friendly atmosphere by showing exploitation films like slasher horrors as well as adult content.”

Then the development of the VCR made it easier to watch movies at home.

“Economically speaking, it became more practical for owners to close their drive-ins in order to sell their land to developers to build malls or multi-building complexes,” the Film Academy reported.

In 2023 there were still over 300 drive-ins open across the U.S., but Delaware is one of six states that don’t have any, along with Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, North Dakota and Wyoming, the Film Academy said. 

Reporter Ben Mace covers real estate, development and business stories. Reach him at [email protected].

9 Steps to Launch a Profitable Drive-In Movie Theater Business

By alex ryzhkov, resources on drive-in movie theater.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan

In recent years, the drive-in movie theater industry has witnessed a remarkable resurgence, largely fueled by social distancing norms and a renewed interest in nostalgic entertainment forms. According to recent market analyses, the U.S. drive-in cinema sector has experienced a significant uptick, with an increase in both new establishments and audience sizes. For entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on this growing trend, understanding the steps to opening a drive-in movie theater , from initial market research to operational planning, is crucial for launching a successful business.

• Conduct market analysis.
• Develop business plan.
• Create financial models.
• Secure funding.
• Choose location.
• Obtain licenses and permits.
• Establish infrastructure.
• Design promotional strategy.
• Plan operations.

9-Steps To Start a Business

Before launching a drive-in movie theater business, it is essential to meticulously plan and prepare through various strategic steps. Each step involves critical tasks that contribute to the successful establishment and operation of the business. Here is a checklist of steps with a brief overview of their requirements:

Market Analysis

Successfully launching a drive-in movie theater begins with an insightful drive-in cinema market analysis . Understanding the local and broader marketplace is essential. This analysis not only identifies potential customers but also sheds light on competitive forces and emerging trends in the drive-in cinema industry.

Conducting a comprehensive analysis involves several key steps. Initially, gather data on current customer demographics, focusing on age, income levels, preferences, and lifestyle choices. This information helps tailor the drive-in movie experience to the tastes and expectations of the targeted audience. Equally, assessing the competitive landscape is critical. Review existing drive-in theaters and traditional cinemas in your area to identify what they excel at and where they might be lacking.

While analyzing the market, pay special attention to recent shifts in consumer behavior. The resurgence of drive-in cinemas, largely fueled by the pandemic, underlines the importance of safety, convenience, and a unique viewing experience in attracting patrons.

Market Analysis Tips

• Utilize online tools and platforms to gather data about local entertainment spending habits and preferences.
• Attend industry conferences and seminars to stay updated with technological innovations and shifts in consumer demands.
• Consider conducting surveys or focus groups to gain direct insights from potential customers about their expectations from a drive-in movie theater.

Highlighting unique selling points is pivotal. This could include aspects such as premium sound systems, a variety of film offerings including indie and classic films, or themed nights that engage the community and create a unique cultural hotspot. Additionally, exploring drive-in movie business model variations such as offering season passes, loyalty programs, or bundled deals can provide additional value to customers and foster repeat business.

Finally, understanding drive-in cinema customer demographics is crucial for tailoring your marketing and operational strategies effectively. Knowing who your customers are, where they come from, and what they value allows for a more targeted approach in both promotional activities and overall business operations.

Business Plan Development

Creating a robust and comprehensive business plan is imperative when seeking to launch a drive-in movie business . This document should meticulously outline the drive-in movie theater business model, detail the marketing strategy, encapsulate the operational plan, and forecast the financial projections. A well-structured business plan not only acts as a strategic roadmap for the establishment and growth of the theater but is also critical in securing funding from investors or financial institutions.

The development of such a plan requires a thorough drive-in cinema market analysis, which will provide insights into customer demographics and preferences. This analysis supports the creation of effective marketing and operational strategies tailored to your target audience. Financial modeling, another critical component, projects the drive-in theater setup costs, operational expenses, and potential revenue, crucial for ensuring profitability and business sustainability.

Key Business Plan Considerations

• Clarify Your Business Model : Clearly articulate whether you will charge per vehicle or per person and how you will integrate concession sales into your revenue stream.
• Define Marketing Strategies : Develop a targeted approach that encompasses seasonal promotions, partnerships with local businesses, and loyalty programs to boost attendance.
• Outline Operational Logistics : Detail the staffing, daily operations, maintenance schedules, and customer service strategies to enhance the overall movie-going experience.

Remember, your business plan should not only persuade lenders and investors of the viability of your drive-in cinema but also serve as a continuous reference for managing your business effectively. Including detailed sections on drive-in theater projectors, screens, and concession equipment will help you estimate initial setup costs realistically and plan for future expansions or upgrades.

Your drive-in cinema business plan is an evolving document. As you open a drive-in cinema business and adapt to market demands and technological changes, regularly updating your business plan is crucial. This adaptability ensures that your drive-in remains competitive and compliant with drive-in movie theater zoning laws and licensing requirements.

Financial Modeling

In developing your drive-in movie theater business plan, a robust financial model is essential. This involves detailing all potential startup costs, from the acquisition of drive-in movie screen suppliers and drive-in theater projectors to drive-in movie concession equipment . Equally important is the estimation of ongoing operational expenses, which supports effective budget management.

Revenue projections are another critical component, determining how admissions, concessions, and potential partnerships will contribute financially. To gauge the viability of your drive-in movie theater, conduct a thorough break-even analysis. This will pinpoint the time frame needed to recover your initial investment under various market conditions.

Given the unpredictability of business environments, especially post-pandemic, it is wise to simulate different scenarios. Consider the impacts of fluctuating customer numbers, varying weather conditions which may affect attendance, and changes in local economic climates. This foresight aids in maintaining resilience and adaptability of the drive-in cinema business model.

Expert Tips for Effective Financial Modeling

• Utilize historical data from similar business models to estimate realistic revenue benchmarks and operational costs.
• Engage with a financial advisor familiar with entertainment or outdoor event businesses to refine your projections.
• Incorporate flexibility in your financial plans to adjust for seasonal fluctuations and potential expansions.

By carefully crafting a detailed financial model, you lay a structured foundation for your venture, preparing for both anticipated challenges and unexpected opportunities in operating a successful drive-in movie theater.

Funding Acquisition

Launching a drive-in movie theater necessitates substantial initial investment. Funding acquisition is a critical step in realizing the vision laid out in your drive-in movie theater business plan. To secure the capital needed, familiarize yourself with the diverse avenues of financing available and tailor your approach to suit potential lenders or investors.

Traditional bank loans can be a viable route, offering the advantage of structured payment terms. Aspiring to open a drive-in cinema business, one must present a robust business plan that lays out the financial forecasts and risks in a clear manner. Banks require assurance on their investment, hence, readying a compelling pitch backed by a detailed operational plan for the drive-in theater is essential.

Looking beyond traditional methods, engaging investors is another significant route. They not only bring in funds but can offer invaluable expertise and connections in the entertainment industry. When you approach potential investors, ensure that your pitch underscores the unique aspects of the drive-in movie business model, including its appeal in the current market influenced by social distancing norms.

Crowdfunding has emerged as an innovative way to raise funds, especially for community-centric projects like drive-in cinemas. By presenting your project on platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo, you can attract contributions from movie enthusiasts who are excited about bringing a drive-in theater to their community. This method also serves as an early marketing tool, building a customer base before the doors even open.

Essential Tips for Effective Funding Acquisition

• Create a narrative around your drive-in cinema that connects emotionally with potential lenders or investors; highlight your passion for reviving this nostalgic way of watching films and its adaptability to modern needs.
• Prepare a detailed drive-in theater financial modeling including projections of revenue from ticket sales, concessions, and potential partnerships with local businesses.
• Consider offering incentives such as free movie tickets or concession discounts to crowdfunding backers, which can increase engagement and funding potential.

Regardless of the chosen funding method, leveraging a comprehensive drive-in cinema business plan is paramount. It’s essential to articulate how the funds will be used, from securing drive-in cinema permits to acquiring drive-in movie screen suppliers and drive-in theater projectors. A clear, strategic approach in your funding acquisition efforts will not only secure the necessary capital but also build confidence among stakeholders about the viability and potential success of your drive-in movie theater.

Site Selection

Identifying and securing the optimal location forms the cornerstone of learning how to start a drive-in movie theater. A suitable site heavily influences the operational success and overall customer experience. Hence, undertaking a comprehensive drive-in cinema market analysis and understanding drive-in movie theater zoning laws are pivotal.

One must select a location that offers ample space not only for the sizeable screen and parking but also for potential queues and concession stands. Accessibility is another critical factor; the ideal venue is easily reachable by major roads and visible to passing traffic, which aids spontaneous attendance and enhances marketing efforts.

Visibility plays a vital role in attracting walk-in customers, making it crucial to choose a site that stands out or is well-known. Furthermore, drive-in cinema site selection must consider ambient light and noise which could interfere with the screening quality, thus impacting the overall customer experience. Therefore, more remote locations, though challenging in terms of accessibility, might offer a better environment for movie viewing.

Key Tips for Effective Site Selection:

• Utilize demographic studies to align the location with the target audience's preferences and their propensity for drive-in experiences.
• Engage with real estate professionals who specialize in commercial properties to uncover potential sites that are not yet on the open market.
• Consider the future potential for area development, which might increase traffic and customer base but could also elevate operational costs and noise pollution.

Given the scale of drive-in theater setup costs , including drive-in movie screen suppliers and drive-in theater projectors , the site must also accommodate technical and logistical needs. Secure, reliable power sources and the ability to incorporate modern digital technologies are essential for creating a seamless movie-watching experience. Effective site selection creates a foundation upon which all other operational aspects of the drive-in movie theater business plan are built.

Licensing And Permits

Securing the appropriate licensing and permits is a pivotal step in learning how to start a drive-in movie theater. This process ensures your business operates within the legal framework set by local, state, and federal governments, covering everything from business operations to public safety and copyright compliance. Before you can even begin to open a drive-in cinema business, you must navigate through a complex landscape of regulatory requirements.

At the heart of this phase is the acquisition of a general business license, which legitimizes your entity as a commercial operation. Moreover, if you plan to sell food and beverages—which is a common practice to enhance revenue at drive-in theaters—you'll need to secure a food service permit. These are typically issued by the county health department and involve an inspection to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

The drive-in movie theater business plan must also include obtaining public performance licenses for the movies you intend to show. These licenses are crucial as they grant you the legal right to screen films to the public, and they must be acquired from movie distributors or licensing bodies like the Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (MPLC). Operating without these can lead to severe legal consequences, including heavy fines and business closure.

Expert Tips for Smooth Licensing and Permit Acquisition

• Start the permit application process early to account for potential delays and ensure you're operational as per your planned timeline.
• Engage with a local lawyer who specializes in entertainment or business law. Their expertise can guide you through the nuances of drive-in cinema licenses.
• Maintain an organized record of all communications and official documents. This meticulous record-keeping can be invaluable in case of disputes or for reference during renewals.

Apart from these primary licenses, your drive-in movie theater might also require specific zoning permits, especially since drive-in theaters require large open spaces and are often situated on the outskirts of towns or cities. Each municipality has different regulations governing land use, so drive-in cinema site selection must be preceded by a thorough drive-in cinema market analysis to ensure compliance with local zoning laws.

Lastly, if your drive-in theater plans to feature live events or additional entertainment, additional permits for public entertainment may also be necessary. Each aspect of your operations might attract different legal considerations, making it imperative to cover all bases to prevent future legal complications and financial headaches.

Navigating the complexities of licensing and securing drive-in cinema permits is a rigorous but essential process. It sets the foundation for your drive-in movie theater to operate smoothly and legally, ultimately contributing to the longevity and success of your business.

Infrastructure Setup

Establishing a robust foundation is paramount when you launch a drive-in movie business. This encompasses acquiring state-of-the-art projectors, screens, and sound systems that ensure an optimal viewing experience. Your drive-in cinema must feature equipment that accommodates the latest technological advancements and can handle various weather conditions.

Consider the installation of large, durable screens that provide clear visibility to every customer, regardless of their parking spot. The choice of drive-in movie screen suppliers can significantly affect the longevity and quality of your display. Similarly, sourcing high-quality projectors and sound systems is essential, as they must offer clarity and reliability to enhance the experience of your viewers.

Furthermore, setting up well-equipped concession stands is crucial for additional revenue generation. This involves investing in reliable drive-in movie concession equipment to offer a range of snacks and beverages. An efficient layout and quick service can greatly enhance customer satisfaction and contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere of your drive-in cinema.

Helpful Tips for Effective Infrastructure Setup

• When selecting your technology, prioritize ease of maintenance and energy efficiency to reduce long-term operational costs.
• Engage with multiple suppliers to compare pricing and service options, ensuring you get the best deals on high-quality equipment.
• Consider future-proofing your setup by incorporating infrastructure that allows for digital connectivity and streaming capabilities as technology evolves.

Ensuring that all technological installations are up-to-date is not just about immediate customer satisfaction—it's about positioning your drive-in movie theater as the go-to venue for top-tier movie experiences. Regular updates and maintenance of technological equipment will keep your business competitive and ensure that your drive-in cinema remains a favored choice amongst movie-goers.

Promotional Strategy

Developing an effective promotional strategy is pivotal for the success of any Drive-In Movie Theater. This strategy should be multifaceted, incorporating both traditional and digital marketing tactics to ensure a wide reach and engagement with potential customers. The ultimate goal is to enhance visibility and foster an increase in attendance.

Initially, leveraging social media platforms can be a cost-effective way to connect with local communities and movie enthusiasts. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter provide opportunities not only for promotion but also for engaging directly with customers, offering them a peek behind the scenes, or updating them on upcoming features and special events.

Simultaneously, local advertising should not be overlooked. Options might include radio spots, local newspaper ads, and strategically placed billboards. These can be particularly effective in reaching demographics less inclined towards digital media.

Moreover, forming partnerships with local businesses can boost visibility significantly. This could be through mutually beneficial promotions, sponsorships, or even special discount offers to the customers of these businesses. Such partnerships not only draw in more patrons but also embed the Drive-In Movie Theater into the local business community.

Special event nights such as 'Retro Movie Night' or 'Family Fest' can also attract various customer segments. By theming these events, the theater can attract niche audiences who may not have visited otherwise.

Effective Tips for Drive-In Cinema Promotion

• Utilize user-generated content: Encourage visitors to share their experiences on social media, which provides authentic promotional content and can attract their friends and family to the theater.
• Leverage local influencers: Partner with local celebrities or influencers who can promote the movie nights to their followers, expanding your reach exponentially.
• Email marketing: Collect emails at the time of ticket purchase to keep patrons informed about upcoming movies and special promotions, maintaining interest and boosting repeat visits.

Each component of your promotional strategy should be designed to build and maintain the interest of potential customers, turning them into regular attendees. Remember, the goal is not just to attract but also to retain a community around your Drive-In Movie Theater.

Operational Planning

Effective operational planning is critical for the success of a Drive-In Movie Theater. This stage encompasses everything from staffing and customer service to maintenance routines, all designed to bolster the customer experience and facilitate repeat business. High customer satisfaction leads directly to positive word-of-mouth advertising, an invaluable asset for any entertainment venue.

Begin by developing comprehensive job descriptions for all roles, from projectionists to concession stand workers. Efficient training programs should be in place, ensuring that all employees are well-versed in customer interaction, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Consider the specific needs of a Drive-In Movie Theater, such as managing large crowds, handling technology specific to film projection, and maintaining outdoor equipment.

Customer service protocols must be meticulously crafted to handle inquiries, ticketing disputes, and general guest assistance effectively. Establish a clear, courteous, and professional communication standard to enhance customer interactions. Additionally, implementing a reliable feedback system can help in promptly addressing customer concerns, thus improving service quality.

Regular maintenance of the theater’s infrastructure is vital to avoid disruptions during showings. This includes routine checks and servicing of digital projectors, sound systems, drive-in movie screen suppliers, and even the cleanliness of the venue Spaces. Develop a schedule that minimizes impact on operational hours and ensures a seamless viewing experience for customers.

Ensure that your operational plan includes strategies for peak times such as weekends and holidays, when visitor numbers may surge. Staff scheduling should be optimized for efficiency, reducing wait times for entry and at concession stands, which in turn enhances customer satisfaction and increases revenue opportunities.

Pro Tips for Advanced Operational Planning

• Invest in staff training with an emphasis on customer engagement —happy, knowledgeable staff can transform the customer experience.
• Use technology to streamline operations, such as digital ticketing systems and a mobile app for ordering concessions from the comfort of one's car.
• Regularly review and adjust your operational plan based on customer feedback and operational data to stay responsive and agile.

Maintaining the operational excellence of a Drive-In Movie Theater not only requires meticulous planning but also an adaptive approach to manage the dynamics of an entertainment environment. By focusing on efficiency, customer service, and maintenance, your theater can provide memorable experiences that keep patrons returning.

Launching a drive-in movie theater requires careful planning and execution, but it presents a promising opportunity in today's entertainment landscape. By following the nine steps outlined—from market analysis to operational planning—you can create a robust framework for success. Embrace the resurgence of drive-in theaters, capitalize on current consumer preferences, and build a community-friendly business that offers more than just movies. With the right approach, your drive-in theater can become a cherished destination for film enthusiasts and families alike.

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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Drive In Theater Business Plan Template & Guidebook

The drive-in movie theater industry is experiencing a resurgence as people look for nostalgic experiences and safe entertainment amid the Covid-19 pandemic. If you've ever dreamed of owning and operating your own drive-in theater, then The #1 Drive In Theater Business Plan Template & Guidebook is the perfect starting point. With easy-to-follow instructions, helpful examples, and an emphasis on best practices, this comprehensive guide will make it easier than ever to bring your dream to life.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

How to Write a Drive In Theater Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your drive in theater business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your drive in theater business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a drive in theater business:

The purpose of our Drive In Theater business is to provide an enjoyable and memorable outdoor movie experience to our customers of all ages and backgrounds in a safe, clean, and affordable environment.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Drive In Theater Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your drive in theater business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your drive in theater business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your drive in theater business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your drive in theater business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a drive in theater business?

• Projection equipment
• Audio equipment
• Food and concession supplies
• Vehicle entry and exit control equipment
• Outdoor lighting equipment
• Signage and advertising materials
• Permits from the city or local government for operation of the business, including noise and parking regulations

5. Management & Organization of Your Drive In Theater Business.

The second part of your drive in theater business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your drive in theater business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Drive In Theater Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a drive in theater business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a drive in theater business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your drive in theater business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your drive in theater business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your drive in theater business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drive In Theater Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a drive in theater business.

A business plan for a drive in theater business is essential in order to ensure the success of a new business. It will provide a roadmap for achieving the desired objectives, including outlining the specific steps to be taken to ensure that the business meets its goals. It should also include an analysis of the market and industry, as well as financial forecasts and projections. Additionally, it should clearly define the company's mission and objectives.

Who should you ask for help with your drive in theater business plan?

It is recommended that you consult a professional business consultant, accountant, and/or lawyer for more detailed help in creating your business plan for a drive in theater. Additionally, talking to those who have successfully launched similar businesses can be a great source of advice and information.

Can you write a drive in theater business plan yourself?

Writing a business plan for a drive in theater requires research and strategic planning. It is important to consider the location, needs of the local community, financial feasibility, marketing strategy, and budget. You need to create an executive summary, describe the product or service that you will provide, analyze the market demand and competition, create a financial plan and budget, set goals for the business, and develop an action plan. Professional advice from an experienced entrepreneur may be beneficial to help create a comprehensive business plan.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

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Theatre Arts Department

Physical Address: Corner of 6th and Rayburn Shoup Hall - 2nd Floor

Mailing Address: Theatre Arts Department University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 2008 Moscow, ID 83844-2008

Phone: 208-885-6465

Fax: 208-885-2558

Email: [email protected]

Web: Theatre Arts Department

FAQ | Attending Performances

Ticket prices and purchases.

Ticket prices for academic productions in the Pocket Playhouse, Forge and Hartung Theater are:

Regular Shows

• FREE for U of I students
• $6 for high school students, students from other schools and youth
• $12 U of I employees, seniors (55 & better) and military
• Matinees are "pay what you can"
• $17 U of I employees, seniors (55 & better) and military
• Matinees are "pay what you can

Tickets can be reserved in advance by calling U of I Theatre Arts at 208-885-6465

Cash, check or Visa, Mastercard or Discovery accepted.

Do University of Idaho Students Get in Free?

Yes! UI students are admitted free of charge to all academic productions. Be sure to bring your student ID to show at the door.

What Time Do Performances Start?

Evenings performances are 7:30 p.m. Most matinees are at 2 p.m. All performances begin on time.

Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the house manager during a suitable break and may be seated in the back or on the side.

Where is the Hartung Theater?

The Hartung Theater is located at the intersection of 6th Street and Stadium Drive on the University of Idaho campus. Abundant free parking is available directly across the street from the Hartung Theater. A curb-side drop zone is available and wheelchair ramp access. The main entrance is located at the top of three tiers of stairs. There is also a ramp entrance located about 50 feet from the stairs.

Hartung Theater Seating Map (View or Download PDF)

Driving Directions to the Hartung Theater

If you’re entering Moscow from the west, turn right where Perimeter Drive intersects Pullman Road (across from the Palouse Mall/WinCo), and go about 1/4 mile on Perimeter Drive. Turn right on 6th Street, and drive about 4 blocks to the intersection of 6th Street and Stadium Drive.

If you’re coming into Moscow south or north on Idaho Highway 95, turn west at 6th Street and drive about a mile to the intersection of 6th Street and Stadium Drive. (Hint: We are located about 500 yards north of the UI Kibbie Dome.)

• University of Idaho Campus Map (View or Download PDF)

Where is the Forge Theater?

The Forge Theater is our new performance space located at 404 Sweet Avenue in the Education/CLASS Annex, next to the Intermodal Transit Center. It is on the east side of campus on the corner of Sweet Avenue and Railroad Street.

Free parking is available after 5 p.m. in the lot behind the Annex building and along the street.

Driving Directions to The Forge Theater

If you’re entering Moscow from the west, turn right where Stadium Drive intersects Pullman Road and go about 1/4 mile on Stadium Drive. Turn right on 6th Street, and drive about 10 blocks to the intersection of 6th Street and Deakin Avenue. Travel on Deakin to Sweet Avenue, turn left. The Forge Theatre (in the Education/CLASS Annex building) will be on your left. Free parking is available after 5 p.m. behind the building and on the street.

Do You Have Reserved Seating?

Most productions do not have reserve seating. You can purchase tickets from BookPeople of Moscow or at the door.

Accessibility Issues

Theater access.

We are committed to making performances accessible to the widest possible audiences. The Hartung Theater is equipped to accommodate physically challenged patrons. There is a three-tiered stairway up to the theater; however, there is also a paved ramp just about 50 feet south of the stair entrance (near the top of the hill). There are also ramps inside and stair-free seating is available on the aisles in several locations. Please advise us if special assistance is required.

Wheelchair Seating

The Hartung Theater is equipped with wheelchair seating locations. Since wheelchair space is limited, please purchase tickets as far in advance as possible and let the Ticket Office know that you will be requiring one of the wheelchair slots. There is a paved wheelchair ramp up to the theatre entrance, about 25 feet south of the main stairway entrance. Please advise us if special assistance is required.

Are Children Allowed?

We welcome children who are old enough to enjoy our performances. However, it is best to check our website for specific productions to ensure they are suitable for children.

(See Parent’s Guide on play pages to determine if individual plays are appropriate for your child.)

Food, Beverage and Smoking Policy

Food or drinks are not permitted in the indoor stage, except bottled water.

The University of Idaho codes prohibit smoking in areas of public assembly. If you wish to smoke, please do so in protected areas outdoors away from the entrance.

Is Photography Allowed?

No. Flash and non-flash photography, sound and video recordings are prohibited during the performance.

May We Have Cell Phones in the Theater?

Please turn off your cell phones and pagers or leave them with the house manager before the performance.

• Hartung Seating Map pdf
• Theatre Campus Map pdf
• Theatre Facilities

Politics latest: Keir Starmer accused of 'rank hypocrisy' by Rishi Sunak after setting out what he'll do to tackle small boat crossings

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer lays out his party's plans to try and tackle small boat crossings if it wins power. Listen to the latest episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast as you scroll.

Friday 10 May 2024 18:30, UK

• Starmer says small boat crossings 'one of the greatest challenges we face'
• Explained: What's in Labour's plan to try and tackle problem
• Darren McCaffrey: Will Labour's plan cut it with voters?
• Starmer says no flights to Rwanda will take off under Labour
• Sunak accuses Starmer of 'rank hypocrisy'
• Electoral Dysfunction:  Jess Phillips says Elphicke defection like 'being punched in gut'
• UK exits recession | Economy 'returning to full health'
• Faultlines:   Can British farming survive?
• Live reporting by Tim Baker

Across the UK, anger is brewing amongst some farmers.  

Protests have already been held in London, Dover and Cardiff, with more planned - mirroring similar tensions seen across Europe in the last six months.     

They say they’re annoyed about cheap foreign imports and changes to subsidies forcing them to give up land in favour of environmental schemes.    

But what does this mean for the food on our table - and does British produce risk becoming a luxury product for the wealthy only?    

On the Sky News Daily , Niall Paterson is joined by West of England and Wales correspondent Dan Whitehead to find out why farmers are so concerned, and speaks to Liz Webster, the founder of Save British Farming, about why she believes eating British isn't just good for our farmers - it's good for the nation's health, too.   

In response to our report, Farming Minister Mark Spencer, said: "We firmly back our farmers. British farming is at the heart of British trade, and we put agriculture at the forefront of any deals we negotiate, prioritising new export opportunities, protecting UK food standards and removing market access barriers. 

"We've maintained the £2.4bn annual farming budget and recently set out the biggest ever package of grants which supports farmers to produce food profitably and sustainably."

The Welsh government said: "A successful future for Welsh farming should combine the best of our traditional farming alongside cutting-edge innovation and diversification. 

"It will produce the very best of Welsh food to the highest standards, while safeguarding our precious environment and addressing the urgent call of the climate and nature emergencies."

👉  Listen above then tap here to follow the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts   👈

Following the defection of the Dover and Deal MP Natalie Elphicke to Labour, Beth, Ruth and Jess discuss the surprise move and whether it could have been handled differently by Sir Keir Starmer.

They also talk about Beth's interview with the former immigration minister Robert Jenrick and his warnings about Reform UK.

Plus, how significant was the defeat of former Conservative mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street? Beth and Jess were both there to tell the story.

And they answer a question on Labour and the Muslim vote, and what the party can do to restore confidence and trust.

Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected] , post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.     

👉 Listen above then tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction wherever you get your podcasts 👈

In January 2023, Rishi Sunak made five promises.

Since then, he and his ministers have rarely missed an opportunity to list them. In case you haven't heard, he promised to:

• Halve inflation • Grow the economy • Reduce debt • Cut NHS waiting lists and times • Stop the boats

See below how he is doing on these goals:

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local elections complete, Labour is still sitting comfortably ahead, with the Tories trailing behind.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

Speaking to Sky political editor  Beth Rigby , Sir Keir Starmer has defended his decision to allow Tory MP Natalie Elphicke into Labour.

Ms Elphicke was on the right of the Conservative spectrum, and previously defended her sex-offender ex-husband, comments which she apologised for this week following her defection.

Addressing Tory voters, Sir Keir says he wants Labour to be a "place where they who have ambitions about their families, their communities, their country, can join and be part of what we are trying to build for their country".

Asked by Beth if he was ruthless, Sir Keir said: "Yes, I'm ruthless in trying to ensure we have a Labour government that can change this country for the better.

"Not ruthless for my own ambition, not ruthlessness particularly for the Labour Party - I'm ruthless for the country. 

"The only way we'll bring about a change in this country is if we're ruthless about winning that general election and putting in place a government of public service, that’ll be a major change.

"Politics, I believe, should be about public service, that's what I've been about all my life."

More now from political editor Beth Rigby's interview with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

She reminded him that he previously ruled out doing a deal with the SNP - but has not done so for the Liberal Democrats.

Sir Keir again ruled out a coalition with the SNP - adding that he is aiming for a "majority Labour government".

He says Labour needs "to keep working hard, keep disciplined and getting our message across, which is something fundamental to me".

Pushed on his lack of ruling out a possible agreement with the Lib Dems, Sir Keir says: "I'm going for a majority.

"That's the answer I gave you a year ago. It's the same answer I'm giving you now."

Sir Keir Starmer was earlier today pushed on whether Rwanda deportation flights will take off if he was prime minister - although it was not clear if he would cancel flights which had already been organised.

Sky News understood that previously booked deportation flights to Rwanda would still go ahead if Sir Keir entered Number 10. 

But the Labour leader has now gone further.

Speaking to political editor Beth Rigby , Sir Keir has ruled out any flights taking off.

"There will be no flights scheduled or taking off after general election if Labour wins that general election," he says.

He says: "Every flight that takes off carries with it a cheque to the Rwanda government. 

"So I want to scrap the scheme - so that means the flights won't be going."

Sir Keir says he would rather spend the money on his own measures to counter small boats.

"No flights, no Rwanda scheme. It's a gimmick," he says.

By Alix Culbertson , political reporter

Scotland's new first minister has told Sky News that the controversial gender recognition reforms "cannot be implemented."

John Swinney,  who became first minister this week , has faced questions over his stance on gender recognition after MSPs voted in 2022 to pass a bill to make it simpler for people to change their gender without having to obtain a medical diagnosis.

The UK government blocked the bill from being made into law and the Supreme Court rejected a request by the Scottish government for a judicial review.

Asked if he would be fighting to push the bill through, Mr Swinney told Sky News: "The reality of the situation we face is that the Supreme Court has said that we can't legislate in that area. We can't take forward that legislation."

The UK economy is no longer in recession, according to official figures.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by a better-than-expected 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

Economists had predicted the figure would be 0.4%.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said it showed the economy had "turned a corner".

He told Sky News's Ed Conway: "I am pleased that while there's more work to do, today's figures show that the economy now has real momentum, and I'm confident that with time, people will start to feel the benefits of that.

"We've had multiple months now where wages are rising, energy bills have fallen, mortgage rates are down and taxes are being cut... I'm pleased with the progress that we're making."

Mr Sunak added: "I am confident the economy is getting healthier every week."

You can read more here:

Rishi Sunak has criticised Sir Keir Starmer's position on Rwanda as "rank hypocrisy".

Speaking to broadcasters, the prime minister says the Labour leader has announced things the government is "already doing".

He gives the example of "punching through the backlog, having more law enforcement officers do more, that's all happening already".

"We've announced all of that more than a year ago," the prime minister adds.

"The question for Keir Starmer if he cares so much about that, why did he vote against the new laws that we passed to give our law enforcement officers new powers? 

"They've now used those to arrest almost 8,000 people connected with illegal migration, sentenced them to hundreds of years in prison.

"And if it was up to him, all those people would be out on our streets, so I think it's rank hypocrisy property of his position."

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