Moviegoers will no longer be able to visit Guzzo cinemas in Marché Central shopping district in Montreal's Ahuntsic-Cartierville borough or in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que.

The family-owned business announced the permanent closure of the two locations on Monday, calling it "a difficult decision that was necessary to ensure the sustainability of our business."

Without providing further details, Cinémas Guzzo cited the challenges of the global health crisis in recent years.

"The company's finances have been affected, understandably. And this despite all the efforts made by the team and our employees to find solutions," the company said.

Addressing the fate of employees, Guzzo noted in a statement on Facebook: "Although we have fought to preserve all jobs, certain measures have become inevitable."

Six years ago, the Montreal-based movie theatre chain was looking to expand to other major Canadian cities, including Vancouver and Calgary.

Back in November, Guzzo closed Cinéma Des Sources in the West Island's Dollard-des-Ormeaux. In December, it said it was working on restructuring after being placed under interim receivership.

Creditors, including CIBC and both levels of government, are seeking the reimbursement of more than $60 million.

With the last two closures, the chain will be reduced to seven locations, according to the company's website.