Vista Group International has acquired the U.S. entertainment software company Retriever Solutions. Under the terms of the deal, Vista Cinema will acquire all Retriever’s software, IP and customers, with an offer of employment to all current employees. Employees will continue to work from Retriever’s existing premises in Owosso, Michigan and Denver, Colorado.
This transaction will see Vista Cinema add more than 100 new customers further strengthening its market share in the U.S.
“This was an irresistible opportunity to work with a talented team who produce great cinema management software and have built a loyal customer base,” said Vista Group CEO, Kimbal Riley. “People can’t wait to get back to the cinema after the challenges of the past two years and we believe the industry has a really strong future. By joining forces with Retriever, we’re in an even better position to deliver on that potential as the world’s leading software company serving the cinema industry.”
All Retriever’s software will continue to be supported, including its web services, signage, back office, multi-site management, film rental and point-of-sale solutions.
“After the acquisition it will still be business as usual for Retriever’s customers. I’m confident Vista Cinema will provide a welcoming new home for our team and I’m looking forward to seeing them innovate on behalf of Retriever’s wonderful customers,” said Ed Kearney, CEO of Retriever Solutions.
Vista Cinema CEO, Leon Newnham, said the business’s continued growth demonstrates that the appetite for cloud technology from customers, alongside audiences’ ongoing love of the cinema, are creating the perfect environment.
"There’s nothing quite like going to see a movie where they are meant to be seen – in the theatre, having the whole experience amplified by rows of people around you laughing and reacting at the same time – people have missed that,” Newnham said. “When technology also helps deliver a seamless experience for customers, it makes them want to come back again, and that’s when the industry really grows. We’re constantly innovating and evolving our technology, that’s why we launched Vista Cloud to the market last year to sit alongside our other products like Veezi. Now we’re excited to bring on a great team of people at Retriever who share our passion for cinema and innovation, and work with amazing new exhibitors to give audiences even better experiences in future.”