Client: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Industry: Entertainment / Foodservice
Markets: Texas, Minnesota, Colorado
Services Delivered: Fire Protection Inspection, Code Compliance, Deficiency Repairs
Overview
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a renowned movie theater chain founded in Austin, Texas in 1997. Known for blending premium in-theater dining with a curated cinematic experience, the brand has built a loyal following and a growing national footprint through a mix of corporate-owned and franchised locations.
In 2024, as part of a post-COVID strategic pivot, Alamo Drafthouse Corporate took back nine former franchise locations across three states—Texas, Minnesota, and Colorado—with plans for a highly anticipated grand reopening.
The Challenge
With reopening dates fast approaching, Alamo Drafthouse faced a critical operational hurdle: ensuring all nine theaters were fully fire code compliant, inspected, and ready to welcome guests—despite years of inconsistent vendor oversight during their franchised operations.
The task required:
- Fire protection inspections across multiple states
- Rapid identification and resolution of code deficiencies
- Coordination with local AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) to meet strict reopening timelines
The Solution
RAEL Fire Protection was engaged by Alamo Drafthouse Corporate to lead fire safety compliance efforts across all nine locations. Acting as a centralized partner with multi-state reach, RAEL was able to:
- Expedite inspections across all markets by deploying a coordinated, national inspection team
- Identify multiple deficiencies, including outdated or non-functioning suppression systems, expired inspection tags, and incorrect installation of fire extinguishers
- Fast-track repairs and corrections through RAEL’s integrated service network and local compliance knowledge
- Navigate local permitting and compliance protocols to align all corrective actions with regional code requirements
The Results
RAEL successfully brought all nine locations into full compliance within the client’s tight timeline. Every location was cleared and reopened on schedule—ensuring Alamo Drafthouse could deliver its signature guest experience without delay.
Key Outcomes:
- 9 theaters reopened on schedule across 3 states
- 100% compliance achieved before local inspection deadlines
- Reduced operational risk and improved vendor consistency across multiple markets
Need to bring your locations to full compliance and reopen fast? Contact RAEL today at info@raelfireprotection.com or call 516-593-2000.
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