Japanese convenience chain Lawson has acquired cinema operator United Cinemas.

Lawson subsidiary Lawson HMV Entertainment has acquired the shares of United Entertainment Holding, the parent company of United Cinemas, which operates movie theatres in 36 locations with 331 screens in Japan.

The deal is said to be worth $100 million.

The acquisition further strengthens its involvement in entertainment business having bought CD and DVD retailer HMV Japan in 2010.

Post acquisition, goods offered at the Lawson stores and through the Lawson HMV service will be sold at United Cinema complexes.