Families, friends and strangers often gather together with popcorn in hand to watch the same movie at the same place at the same time. It’s a universal experience, but one that’s tailored by the location hosting the film.
The GQT Holland 7 is known for customer-focused and people-driven experiences. Moviegoers say workers are “exceptionally friendly” and “always ready to help.”
Goodrich Quality Theaters was founded by William Goodrich in 1931, with an initial one-screen location in Grand Rapids. In time, the brand was handed down from father to son — and Bob Goodrich decided to expand.
Nearly a century later, GQT Movies has 22 locations with 174 screens across several states, including Michigan, Illinois, Indiana and Florida.
The location at 500 S. Waverly Road opened in 1984 as the Quad 31, named for four screens and a location off US-31. By 1991, the theater had expanded to seven screens, with loyal customers complimenting the nostalgic, friendly atmosphere.
Jason Ealy, district manager, has worked with the company since he was 16. He’s partial to the Holland 7 for the location’s sense of community.
“I never wanted to leave,” he told The Sentinel. “This was always my favorite theater. I know the community, I know the regulars.”
It hasn’t always been smooth sailing for GQT, which went bankrupt following closures mandated by the threat of COVID-19. In the end, multiple investors came together to purchase the brand, choosing to keep the acronym GQT. The business’ model is dedicated to “movies, munchies and memories,” and employees are specifically trained to provide a welcoming experience
Sophia Prins, who’s been with the company for over two years, said the people make the difference.
“I feel like I can be myself without worrying about what everyone is thinking,” she told The Sentinel.
In the coming weeks, the Holland 7 will offer Summer Family Flicks — movies at 10 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the summer season for just $2 per person. On those days, the children’s combo is only $5 until 12 p.m.
Learn more at gqtmovies.com/gqt-holland-7.
— Julie Davino is a freelance writer for The Holland Sentinel. Contact the newsroom at newsroom@hollandsentinel.com.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: What makes the GQT Holland 7 such a welcoming theater? We asked.
Reporting by Julie Davino, Special to The Sentinel / The Holland Sentinel
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