AMC reverses course after initially saying it won't require face masks when theaters reopen to avoid 'political controversy'

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• AMC Theatres, which has more than 600 locations in the US, reversed course after it initially said it would not require customers to wear face masks when it reopens this summer.
• "This announcement prompted an intense and immediate outcry from our customers, and it is clear from this response that we did not go far enough on the usage of masks," CEO and President Adam Aron said in a statement on Friday.
• "At AMC Theatres, we think it is absolutely crucial that we listen to our guests. Accordingly, and with the full support of our scientific advisors, we are reversing course and are changing our guest mask policy."
• Masks will be available for $1 and mandated for employees.
• Competitors Cinemark and Regal are making masks voluntary in areas where they are not already required.
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AMC Theatres reversed course, after initially saying that it would not require customers to wear face masks when it reopens this summer.

In an interview with Variety that was published on Thursday Aron said, "We did not want to be drawn into a political controversy. We thought it might be counterproductive if we forced mask wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary."

See the rest of the story at Business Insider

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• 'The effect is greatest when 100% of the public wear face masks': Growing body of research shows the role of face coverings in curbing the spread of the coronavirus

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