German mini-major Kinowelt has exercised an option to acquire the remaining 49.9% shares in the Theile Hoyts Kinopolis group, comprising ten multiplex cinemas. "The positive development in the first months of the current year in the exhibition market confirms our decision to become more involved in the running of cinemas", CEO Michael Koelmel declared.

The option, which had been granted to Kinowelt when it took a majority 50.1% stake in Kinopolis in May 2000, has not involved any further outlay as this was included in the original purchase price.