M&A NEWS

National CineMedia buys Captivate for US$275m

The cinema advertising network is adding office and residential elevator screens to reach audiences outside theatres.

M&A News deals deskMedia / Advertising · United States, Americas11 Aug 2026

National CineMedia agreed on 10 August, and announced on 11 August, to acquire Captivate, an operator of digital video screens in office and residential buildings, for an enterprise value of $275.0m.

Captivate website: captivate.com

Why National CineMedia is buying Captivate

NCM said the deal creates the leading premium video and digital out-of-home platform, diversifies its network and opens cross-selling opportunities to advertisers seeking attentive audiences.

“The acquisition of Captivate is a key step in advancing NCM’s strategy to build a broader premium video and digital out-of-home advertising platform”Tom Lesinski, CEO, National CineMedia

Deal terms and financing

NCM bought Captivate from Generation Partners, which acquired it in 2013. It funded the purchase with a new $275.0m senior secured term loan, cash on hand and a new $25.0m revolving facility.

Regulatory approvals and timing

The acquisition closed on 18 September 2026 after regulatory approval.

Market context

The combined network has more than 48,000 digital screens in theatres, office buildings and residential properties across 185 designated market areas, including all of the top 100.

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