Manchester-based cinema software company Unique X is considering a potential initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange next year that could value the firm at around £300 million and raise approximately £100 million in new capital. The move would mark a significant growth milestone for the company and provide a boost to the London market, which has seen subdued IPO activity in recent years.

Founded in Norway in 1997, Unique X specializes in cinema advertising technology and software used by more than 40,000 screens across over 90 countries. Its client base includes major cinema chains such as Odeon, Vue, and Cineplex, which rely on its platform to manage film programming and trailer scheduling. Leading studios like Warner Bros Discovery, Disney, and Universal also use Unique X’s technology for global film distribution.

The company’s growth has accelerated following an $80 million (£59 million) investment from European finance firm Kartesia in 2024. Despite this outside funding, founder Chris Hagan retains an 85 percent ownership stake. While a public listing is currently the preferred route, Unique X is reportedly evaluating alternative options, including a potential sale.

A successful London listing by Unique X would provide a notable lift for the city’s equities market, which has struggled to attract high-profile technology company IPOs. In response, government officials have introduced a series of regulatory changes aimed at enhancing London’s appeal to growth-stage firms. These reforms include a temporary exemption from stamp duty on new IPO shares and reduced free-float thresholds, allowing founders to maintain larger stakes post-listing.

As the company weighs its options, the potential float signals ongoing interest in the intersection of media technology and entertainment, and underscores London’s efforts to remain competitive as a global financial center.