IMAX Corporation hosted its 11th Annual CEO Forum at the Ojai Valley Inn in California, USA, from April 4 to 7, 2024. This prestigious event brought together key figures from the global entertainment industry to delve into current trends and future projections.
Rich Gelfond, IMAX’s CEO, kicked off the four-day conference, welcoming esteemed guests including CEOs from AMC Theatres, Cineplex, and Tokyu Recreation. Panel discussions spanned various topics, from evolving audience preferences to emerging entertainment sources and the integration of AI in cinema. Notable panelists included industry leaders such as Chris Meledandri, David Fenkel, Josh Grode, Kathleen Kennedy, Todd Phillips, and Glen Powell.
Among the distinguished attendees was Steven Tan, president of SM Supermalls, representing the Philippines. Tan contributed to a forum titled “Malls, Hotels and Experiences: Where Does the Cinema of the Future Fit?” alongside Jane Hastings, managing director and CEO of EVT, Ltd., and Thomas Rose, co-founder of P-THREE.
Tan shared insights from the Philippine perspective, highlighting the intertwined nature of malls, experiences, and cinema within the ASEAN context. He emphasized the strong post-Covid-19 desire for communal experiences among Filipinos, underscoring the pivotal role of malls and cinemas in fostering community engagement. Tan outlined strategies employed by SM Cinemas, including contactless entry and enhanced SnackTime refreshment stands, aimed at elevating the cinema experience.
The inclusion of SM Supermalls in the discussion highlighted the Philippines’ rising prominence in the global entertainment arena, reflecting SM’s commitment to shaping the industry’s trajectory.
