India, Aug. 7 -- I ntroducing a new cinema format for India's fastest-growing Tier III markets and signalling its next phase of growth beyond metropolitan centres, PVR INOX unveiled PVR INOX SMART Cinemas on August 4 at PVR Lido, Juhu, Mumbai. Drawing on nearly three decades of exhibition leadership and cinema development expertise, the new format adapts PVR INOX's proven exhibition model for emerging markets while retaining the brand's service standards and movie-going experience. It will be rolled out through a Franchise-Owned, Company-Operated (FOCO) model, combining a capital-efficient framework with partnerships with local developers and entrepreneurs to expand organised cinema across India's emerging cities. The journey begins with Bihar's Muzaffarpur, the first destination for the new format. PVR INOX has signed six additional properties for delivery over the next nine months and is in discussions with developers across several high-growth cities, underscoring its long-term commitment to India's next generation of cinema destinations. Created specifically for these markets, SMART Cinemas combines 2K laser projection, immersive 7.1 surround sound, curated food and beverage offerings, modern auditoriums and the signature PVR INOX experience in a contemporary, value-led format. The format responds to rising disposable incomes, expanding organised retail, improving infrastructure and evolving consumer aspirations that are reshaping entertainment demand beyond India's largest cities. The announcement was followed by a leadership conversation featuring Ajay Bijli, Managing Director, PVR INOX Limited; Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Limited; Renaud Palliere, Chief Strategic Advisor & CEO, SMART Cinemas; and Maneesh Gaur, Chief Development Officer, PVR INOX Limited. Moderated by Shivraj Parshad, Senior Vice President, Avian WE, the panel explored the evolving cinema exhibition landscape, the potential of emerging cities, innovative expansion models and partnerships shaping the next chapter of organised cinema in India.HTC...