Just shy of 2,000 new digital screens were added across Europe in the first quarter 2011, bringing the total active digital screen base to 12,106, up by 19.6% from the 10,159 screens active at end Q4. 3D’s momentum rebounded slightly in the first three months of 2011, from a recent low in Q4, as 3D featured in over two thirds of net deployments. However, 3D’s penetration of the total European digital screen market continued to fall for the third consecutive quarter.

Together, the top five markets in Western Europe (UK, DE, ES, IT, FR) account for the majority of total digital screens deployed. This report focuses on the leading cinema exhibitors in Western Europe, providing insight on the ratio of screens converted to digital and 3D, the type of digital equipment installed and the choice of third party integrator.

Highlights:

* Total digital screens in Europe increased 19.6% to hit 12,106 in Q1 2011
* France becomes the first territory in Europe to exceed the 2,000 digital screen threshold
* France also registered the highest level of both net digital and 3D installations in Q1 2011
* Over one third of total screens in the UK are now 3D
* Spain is the most underserved for both digital and 3D screens of Europe?s top five markets
In this report:
* Over 12,000 d-screens now active in Europe
* Top five territories lead Q1 net digital installations
* 3D momentum rebounds slightly in Q1 2011
* France leading pace of 3D growth
* Over one third of UK screens are 3D
* Germany breaks 1,000 3D screen barrier
* CGR raises 3D screen stakes in France
* Top five circuits reach over 45% digital penetration in Italy
* Yelmo rapidly proceeding with digital roll-out
* RealD gains market share in Western Europe
* D-cinema deal round up

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