Sony get a Vue into the cinema world

Paul Milligan, 09 July 2008

Sony has struck a deal with VUE cinemas to supply 62 multiplexes across the UK and Ireland with a new Sony Ziris digital signage system. The programme will see 287 Bravia and Sony Pro 40in LCD screens located throughout its network linked by Ziris software and centrally managed from Vue's London headquarters.

Historically the sites have had menu boards that were used for both promotional and retail activity and only updated periodically to reflect price changes or to promote a new release. Vue needed a system that would allow them to have maximum flexibility to exchange the different zones within each cinema site and the flexibility for different cinemas to show different content from each other.

The solution is run from three servers at head office that create, manage and transfer content, to the network players. The Ziris software will allow a focal point for retail and marketing departments to automatically monitor the entire digital signage network or pinpoint exactly what is being transmitted at any multiplex in order to tailor specific messaging.

The project is three quarters of the way to completion. The solution is scaleable to accommodate Vue's continual expansion. Sony is installing FWD40LX2 HD screens in the foyer environment designed for heavy duty operations in public places. The display panel also allows for independent colours to be fine tuned so a precise match with the branding colours can be achieved.