Cinema operator Odeon has continued its 3D digital rollout across the UK and Ireland with the installation of projection equipment at venues in Kilmarnock and Lincoln.

The latest phase means that Odeon and UCI has now installed digital projection equipment at 266 UK and Ireland cinemas, and 414 across Europe overall. It is anticipated the chain will pass the 500 mark by the summer in time for a number of scheduled 3D film releases, such as Shrek Forever After, Toy Story 3 and Cats and Dogs.

Rupert Gavin, chief executive officer of Odeon and UCI Cinemas, said: "The rollout culminates three years of intense preparation and negotiation and signifies the biggest investment in cinema since the industry's heyday in the 1930s." It follows the announcement that Cineworld is planning to roll-out digital facilities across its entire UK and Ireland estate after securing a partnership with Arts Alliance Media.