Connplex Cinemas Limited is a Gujarat-based entertainment company that operates a growing network of “luxury” movie theaters under the “CONNPLEX” brand, focusing on delivering diverse cinematic experiences. Specializing in film exhibition, food and beverage sales, advertising, and event hosting, Connplex operates 66 screens across seven states, primarily in Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities like Gujarat and Bihar, using a franchise model. The company is headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, at Block C-1001, Krish Cubical, Opp. Avalon Hotel, Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Daskroi-380059. Its initial public offering (IPO) in the SME segment opens for subscription on August 7, 2025, and closes on August 11, 2025, with shares set to list on the NSE Emerge on August 14, 2025.
Products and Uses
Connplex Cinemas operates a network of movie theaters under the brand name “CONNPLEX.” Its primary products and services include:
- Movie Screenings: Exhibiting films across various genres to cater to diverse audience preferences, providing entertainment through cinematic experiences.
- Food and Beverage Sales: Offering snacks, drinks, and meals at theaters, enhancing the movie-going experience and generating additional revenue.
- Advertising: Displaying advertisements in theaters, such as pre-movie commercials, to promote brands and products.
- Event Hosting: Providing theater spaces for private screenings, corporate events, and community gatherings, offering a venue for special occasions or business functions.
These products are used by consumers for entertainment, socializing, and event hosting, delivering a mix of cinematic enjoyment and premium experiences like luxury seating and advanced technology.
Producer to Consumer Value Chain
The value chain for Connplex Cinemas, from producer to consumer, can be broken down as follows:
- Content Creation (Producers): Filmmakers and studios produce movies, which are the core content for Connplex’s theaters. This includes scriptwriting, filming, and post-production.
- Distribution: Connplex collaborates with film distributors to secure rights to screen movies. Distributors act as intermediaries, ensuring films reach theaters from studios.
- Theater Operations (Connplex): Connplex manages its cinema network, primarily through a franchise model (63 screens via FOFO – franchise-owned, franchise-operated; 3 via FOCO – franchise-owned, company-operated). They equip theaters with advanced technology like LED screens, projectors, recliner seating, and sound systems to enhance the viewing experience.
- Marketing and Promotion: Connplex, in collaboration with filmmakers and studios, markets movies through advertisements, trailers, and promotions to attract audiences. They also promote their food, beverage, and event-hosting services.
- Consumer Experience: Customers purchase tickets (online via platforms like https://ticketing.theconnplex.com/ or at theaters) and attend screenings. They also buy food and beverages or book theaters for events. Connplex generates revenue through ticket sales, food and beverage sales, and advertising revenue sharing.
- Feedback Loop: Consumer preferences (e.g., demand for luxury seating or specific genres) influence Connplex’s offerings, such as upgrading facilities or selecting films, which feeds back to producers and distributors for future content creation.
This value chain ensures a seamless flow from film production to consumer entertainment, with Connplex acting as a key intermediary in delivering cinematic experiences.
Expected Industry CAGR
Indian Cinema Industry CAGR: Approximately 10.5% (projected growth for the Indian film exhibition industry over the next few years, driven by increasing per capita income and theater attendance).
Risks associated with the company
1. Cinema Industry Downturn: A decline in the Indian or international cinema industry, due to economic slowdowns or shifts in consumer preferences (e.g., towards OTT platforms), has reduced theater attendance and revenue.
2. Competitive Pressure: Intense competition from other cinema chains or alternative entertainment options (e.g., streaming services) has eroded market share and profitability.
3. High trade receivables could be a problem.
4. The prospects of the company are not immune from the economy. If the economy does well, people have disposable income, the theaters do well. If the economy has slowdown, the theaters might need to shut shop.
5. A black swan event such as a COVID like pandemic will wipe the business off.
Final Verdict: Apply. India’s film exhibition story is only expanding with the improving income of Indian middle class. Company has a decent balance sheet, very healthy operating margins and positive cash flows.