Lark International Holdings (LIH), which owns Hong Kong exhibitors UA Cinemas and Cityplaza Cinemas, has launched a distribution arm, Lark Films Distribution (LFD).

Headed by former Edko Films executive Karen Wong, LFD plans to acquire 8-10 films a year with a focus on quality US product. The company has already attended this year's American Film Market and expects to close its first deals during Cannes.

'We saw an opportunity to pick up films that could be shown in UA cinemas between peak seasons when the selection of titles available is limited,' said LIH director Donald Meyer.

Two of Hong Kong's other leading exhibitors - Golden Harvest and Edko - already have distribution arms.

Edko's Broadway circuit is the territory's leading exhibitor with 10 sites and 43 screens followed by UA with eight sites and 40 screens. Cityplaza operates one complex with seven screens.