CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Classic Cinemas announced Friday that they are implementing several new procedures to protect the health and well-being of its guests amid the coronavirus outbreak.
"Caring for our guests and Classic Cinemas family remains our highest priority. While many will stay home during this crisis, we want to reassure those who are well and wish to enjoy a movie that we are diligently working to ensure a clean and safe environment. As we monitor the daily updates from governmental health agencies, we have proactively implemented several new procedures to protect your health and well-being," Classic Cinemas CEO Chris Johnson wrote in a statement.
Beyond cleaning and sanitation, Classic Cinemas will be capping the number of tickets sold to 60 percent of capacity for all showings, "so guests can spread out and maintain social distance from fellow moviegoers," the theater company said in a statement.
Guests will also be asked to leave space between groups when selecting seats and will be a new cup or bucket with each refill, to avoid the spread of germs.
Classic Cinemas said they are frequently disinfecting high-touch hard surfaces and enhancing deep cleaning, in addition to their overnight professional cleaning. They are also educating employees on symptoms and preventative measures for COVID-19, as well as reinforcing best practice health and food handling protocols. Employees are also being encouraged to stay home if they are sick or showing symptoms of possible illness so they can rest and recover.
"As a family-owned business with theatres dating back to the 1920s, we love movies and cherish the movie-going experience. Without our guests and amazing Classic Cinemas family, we wouldn't be here today. This time-honored tradition has weathered many storms so we will get through this together," Johnson wrote in a statement.