The company behind the Ealing Project, the three screen Ealing Broadway shopping centre cinema which opened in summer 2022, has announced a “strategic restructuring of its operations” which it says will see the Ealing Project continue operating as an independent venue.
In a statement, Really Local Group, said it has “announced a strategic restructuring of its operations. This transition will see three of its flagship projects—Sidcup Storyteller, Ealing Project, and Reading Biscuit Factory— continuing to operate as independent venues, effective immediately. This step marks a pivotal moment in securing the future for these beloved spaces, which have become vital hubs for their respective local communities.”
According to Really Local Group, all current memberships and pricing structure will continue.
The move comes after it was revealed in October 2024, that Really Local Group (Broadway) Ltd owes nearly £2m to creditors including £459,000 to its Ealing Broadway shopping centre landlord, £16,000 to 15 employees, £2,548 to Ealing Council and tens of thousands of pounds to various film companies.
In its statement, Really Local Group added: “The decision to restructure follows a difficult period for the business, driven by global challenges that have affected the industry. Over the past five years, the group has navigated significant obstacles, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to prolonged closures and reduced capacities alongside construction delays at the Reading site, pushing its opening by a year.
“The energy crisis, inflation, and economic uncertainty were compounded by industry-wide impacts on cinemas from the Hollywood writers’ strike. Despite these hurdles, the Really Local Group remains committed to its founding vision, and the restructuring aims to ensure the sustainability and growth of its venues in the long term.”
Preston Benson, founder of Really Local Group, said: “On behalf of the team at Really Local Group, I’d like to thank our communities for their unwavering support. Challenging times have prompted change, and this restructuring is a positive step towards securing the future of these cherished venues and ensuring they continue to thrive as cultural and community hubs.”
