As has been widely reported, Cineworld is in talks over a possible sale as part of a strategic review that could lead to a wholesale restructuring of its business.
The operator and owner of brands such as Regal, Cinema City, Picturehouse and Planet has lined up AlixPartners as a consultant to work on a potential disposal of its UK operations, the reports said, adding that the sale process was expected to run for several weeks.
The company surfaced from Chapter 11 bankruptcy less than a year ago after filling for U.S. bankruptcy in 2022 to restructure debt.
It is also considering alternative options, including a company voluntary arrangement which could put an unspecified number of its UK cinemas at risk of closure.
A spokesman for Cineworld said, "Like many businesses, we are continually reviewing our UK operations."