Ster-Kinekor closes cinema at one of Durban's popular shopping malls
In a surprising turn of events, Ster-Kinekor has closed its cinema complex at Durban’s Gateway Theatre of Shopping
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Ster-Kinekor has closed its cinema complex at Durban’s Gateway Theatre of Shopping.
The Ster-Kinekor cinema complex, a fixture at the mall for several years, served as one of its key attractions and drew moviegoers from across the city.
This move has left many people disappointed, as the cinema was a popular spot for watching films and spending time with family and friends.
“We part ways with Gateway on good terms and with mutual respect,” a Ster-Kinekor spokesperson told MyBroadband.
“We are proud to have been part of the centre’s entertainment offering and are grateful for the positive relationship we’ve enjoyed over the years.”
Media reports suggest that Nu Metro could take over the vacated cinema space at Gateway, although no official confirmation has been made.
Ster-Kinekor’s decision to shut down its operations at Gateway follows the earlier closure of its Bedford Square complex in Bedfordview, which was subsequently taken over by rival chain Nu Metro.
The company has been grappling with financial difficulties for several years. Last year, it announced plans to lay off nearly a third of its 728 employees and close nine cinemas across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape, and the Free State.
However, following a restructuring process, Ster-Kinekor revealed it had cut fewer jobs, fewer than 60, and closed only two cinemas.
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
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