Spanish exhibitor Yelmo Cines has struck a deal with digital distribution service Arts Alliance Media (AAM) to digitise 370 of its screens.

In the largest digital cinema deal to date in Spain, the companies reached an agreement to digitise 370 screens in Yelmo’s 31-strong chain of cinemas, with the rollout set to begin immediately. All screens will be 3D capable.

In the initial phase of the rollout, at least half of Yelmo’s screens at each location will be converted to digital, with the remainder to be installed over the ensuing months. Today’s announcement follows previous deals struck between AAM and Yelmo in the past two years under which several screens have already been installed.

Fernando Evole, CEO of Yelmo Cines, said: “The results we have had from digital cinema over the last 2 years, particularly in terms of bringing 3D to customers and also in the opportunities brought to us from alternative content, have convinced us to digitise our entire circuit. Our experience with Arts Alliance Media has also proven to us that they are the right long term partner.”

Howard Kiedaisch, CEO of Arts Alliance Media, commented: “Yelmo has been a leader in digital not only in Spain, but also in Europe and has always provided the best experience to their customers. We have enjoyed a great working relationship with Fernando and his team, and are thrilled to be selected to work with them going forward.”

The deployment with Yelmo in Spain is AAM’s seventh announced territory agreement following deals in the UK (Cineworld and Reel), France (CGR), Italy (The Space), Holland (ABC), Denmark (Denmark Digital) and in Norway via its JV Nordic Digital Alliance.

Spain currently has around 300 digital screens, approximately 80% of which are 3D-ready.