Cinema United, formerly known as the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), is the world’s largest exhibition trade organization, representing over 31,000 movie screens across all 50 U.S. states and more than 30,000 screens in around 80 countries worldwide[1][2][3]. Founded in 1948, the organization serves as a unified voice for movie theater owners ranging from large chains to independent single-screen venues, advocating for the theatrical exhibition industry at federal and international levels[2][5]. Historically, Cinema United originated from the merger of major theater trade associations, notably the Theater Owners of America and the Allied States Association of Motion Picture Exhibitors, which culminated in 1965 with the formation of NATO[1][5]. Over decades, it has supported the industry through key shifts such as the multiplex boom of the 1960s, the blockbuster era of the 1980s, and more recent technological and market challenges. It has also been instrumental in launching initiatives like National Movie Month in the 1960s and CinemaCon in 2011, a premier industry convention[5]. In March 2025, the organization rebranded from NATO to Cinema United to better emphasize its mission and avoid confusion with the similarly named military alliance[1][4]. The new name reflects a renewed focus on promoting moviegoing and supporting theater exhibitors with advocacy in areas such as government relations, new technology adoption, marketing, and First Amendment issues[2][4]. Key achievements include strong industry advocacy against consolidation threats like the proposed Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition by Netflix in 2025, highlighting risks to theatrical exhibition and local economies[3]. Cinema United also established The Cinema Foundation in 2022, a nonprofit to advance theatrical exhibition and launched National Cinema Day to boost attendance[5]. Today, Cinema United remains headquartered in Washington, D.C., with an office in Los Angeles, working actively to influence policy, foster community among exhibitors