LOS ANGELES, Sept 19 (Reuters) - The largest theater

chains including AMC Entertainment ( AMC ), Regal Cinemas

and Cinemark will invest more than $2.2 billion

over the next three years to upgrade theaters in the U.S. and

Canada, an industry group announced on Thursday.

Improvements will be made by the eight biggest theater

chains in the region, representing over 21,000 screens and 67%

of box office sales, according to the National Association of

Theatre Owners.

The movie business has faced multiple challenges from the

rise of streaming to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Hollywood

strikes in 2023.

NATO said the funds would be used for various projects,

including installing more comfortable seating, adding immersive

sound and laser projection technology and improving air

conditioning, carpeting and food and beverage options.