Live HTML
Live HTML

 

How to Succeed at Selling Popcorn with Gold Medal

Popcorn is a popular menu item across various settings, such as movie theaters, sports arenas, carnivals, tourist attractions, and many other venues. Its timeless appeal and high profit margins make selling popcorn a lucrative choice for many food businesses.

However, not all popcorn is created equal. It's important to use high-quality equipment and supplies to create fresh, delicious popcorn that satisfies customers and boosts sales.

Gold Medal offers the highest-quality popcorn machines, accessories, and supplies in the industry. View our products and explore the guide below to learn everything you need to know about selling popcorn.

Gold Medal Popcorn Machine
Popcorn Equipment
Gold Medal Popcorn Cart
Popcorn Accessories
Popcorn by Gold Medal
Popcorn Supplies
Live HTML

10 Benefits of a Commercial Popcorn Machine for Your Business

Investing in a commercial popcorn machine can boost your business. As a popular, profitable, and enjoyable snack, popcorn delights customers and adds to your venue’s appeal.

  1. High Profitability: Popcorn performs well! Enjoy up to 80% profit margins with popcorn. This is significantly higher than the food and beverage industry average of 20-30%. In fact, popcorn is so affordable, some locations are willing to give it away.
  2. Profound Popularity: Popcorn is a globally loved snack, appealing to all ages. It ranks among the top-selling snacks. It is enjoyed at various places including cinemas, carnivals, and home snacking.
  3. Easy Prep: Making popcorn is incredibly easy and fun! All it takes is adding kernels, oil, and salt to the kettle and you’ll be popping delicious popcorn in minutes.
  4. Engages the Senses: Hear the popcorn popping, smell the buttery aroma, see the popcorn overflowing the popper, and taste the deliciousness. It’s a full sensory experience!
  5. Highly Versatile: Where can you find popcorn machines? Nearly anywhere. From movie theaters, bars, stadiums, schools, amusement parks, and retail shops, popcorn is satisfying customers. Available in different sizes and designs from small countertop poppers to large freestanding models, there is a popcorn machine to suit your needs.
  6. Customizable Flavors: Popcorn is ideal for adding flavorings or toppings. Caramel corn and cheese popcorn are the most popular. There are also sweet candy-glazed flavors like cherry, vanilla, or red cinnamon. Or try savory flavors such as bacon and cheese, ranch, and hot jalapeño.
  7. Efficient Production: A commercial popcorn machine is made to produce large batches quickly and efficiently. So, you can keep up with demand and reduce wait times.
  8. Consistent Quality: Increase customer satisfaction by delivering consistent taste, texture, and quality with every batch. Keep customers coming back for more.
  9. Cost-Effective Investment: By making your own popcorn, you avoid the higher cost of prepackaged popcorn and increase your profit margins. However, if you don’t have the staff or prefer a touchless alternative, prepackaged popcorn is a great alternative.
  10. Aesthetic Appeal: A popcorn machine creates a nostalgic, fun, and inviting atmosphere that attracts customers.

Live HTML
Collage of Who Rents Concession Equipment
 

The History of Popcorn and Its Origins

With origins dating back to ancient civilizations, popcorn has a long and fascinating history. Discover the history of popcorn, and see how its uses have evolved over time.

Origins

Popcorn is believed to have originated in the Americas, specifically in present-day Mexico, where evidence of popcorn has been found dating back to as early as 3600 BCE. Native American tribes such as the Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas were known to use popcorn in their daily lives, often popping it over open flames or hot stones.

A photo of an open flame on a dark background.

Cultural Significance

Popcorn has been an important part of various cultures throughout history. Native Americans used popcorn for decoration, food, and even in their religious ceremonies. In addition, popcorn was used as a symbol of peace during the colonial era, when it was often shared between European colonizers and Native American tribes.

a photo of corn and popped popcorn in a bowl next to each other.
Photo of old building in 1959 the location of Gold Medal Products on Freeman Ave.

Gold Medal Products Co. corporate offices on Freeman Avenue in Cincinnati, Ohio (circa 1959)

Commercialization

Popcorn gained popularity in the United States in the late 19th century when it began to be sold as a snack food in circuses and fairs. In the early 20th century, popcorn stands started appearing in movie theaters, quickly becoming a staple snack food for moviegoers.

A photo of Gold Medal Products Dave Evans and a reciept.
Did you know icon

In the United States, Americans eat an estimated 16 billion quarts of popcorn each year.

Popularity Today

Today, popcorn is one of the most popular snack foods around the world. In the United States, it is consumed more than any other snack food, with Americans consuming an estimated 16 billion quarts of popcorn each year. Beyond movie theaters, it can now be found in grocery stores, at stadiums, amusement parks, schools, zoos, and nearly anywhere you can imagine.

a photo of 3 kinds of popcorn popped next to each other.

Enduring Legacy

From its ancient roots to its status as a modern-day snack icon, popcorn has played an important role in our culture. Popcorn is a snack food that people connect with on an emotional level. It has a mix of nostalgia, taste, and fun! Whether enjoyed at the movies or at home, popcorn will continue to be a beloved snack that has stood the test of time.

A digital image showing stats for the popcorn market into the future.

credit source: Grand View Research

Live HTML
Collage of Gold Medal Popcorn Machines
 

Popcorn Machines 101

To get started, it is important to have a basic understanding of the types of popcorn machines available. This is a general overview of the categories of popcorn machines Gold Medal offers.

Counter Popper with silver and red details

Countertop Popcorn Machines:

These machines are perfect for small to medium-sized venues, such as convenience stores, concession stands, or small cafes. They are compact and easy to use, and they come in a variety of designs and sizes to suit different needs.

The countertop popcorn machines from Gold Medal offer features such as non-stick kettles for easy cleaning, tempered glass for safety, and stainless steel construction for durability. To maintain and clean these machines, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the kettle and other components after each use.

View All

 
Counter Popper with silver and red details

Industrial Popcorn Machine:

These machines are larger and more powerful than countertop models and are perfect for larger venues, such as movie theaters, sports arenas, and amusement parks. They have a higher production capacity and can make larger batches of popcorn, which is ideal for high-traffic settings.

Industrial popcorn machines from Gold Medal offer features such as heating lamps to keep popcorn warm and fresh, tempered glass for safety, and built-in storage for popcorn and supplies. To keep these machines in optimal condition, it's crucial to frequently clean the kettle and other parts, and to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for maintaining the electrical components.

View All

 
Counter Popper with silver and red details

Popcorn Carts:

Popcorn Carts offer mobility and flexibility making it easy to move the popcorn machine to different locations within a venue or transport in between events. Carts also offer an attractive display and branding opportunities. Many carts and bases come with built-in storage compartments for all the popcorn supplies and provide a high-quality and stable foundation for your popper.

View All

Photo of Gold Medal Products ReadySeries poppers.

Gold Medal Products Co. Ready Series Poppers

Counter Popper with silver and red details

Popcorn Vending Machines:

Discover the ultimate solution for enhancing your concession experience with top-of-the-line popcorn vending machines like ReadyServe®, ReadyServe® One, ReadyPop®, and ReadyPop® Jr. These commercial self-serve popcorn machines not only reduce long lines and labor costs but also promote customer satisfaction and safety by offering a convenient grab-and-go snack experience.

Enhance your brand and outshine competitors by providing a unique popcorn-serving novelty that can be customized with branded signage or graphics. Cashless payment options are available on some machines as well. Managers can reap the benefits of low costs, minimal labor, and high-profit margins associated with popcorn vending. Connect with our concession specialists today to revolutionize your popcorn serving setup.

View All

 

Gold Medal Products Co. offers a range of commercial popcorn machines that cater to different needs and settings. Whether you're looking for a compact countertop machine, a powerful industrial model, or a mobile popcorn cart, Gold Medal has options to suit your needs. By following the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and cleaning, you can keep your machine running smoothly and producing delicious popcorn for years to come.

 
Live HTML
pop posterized red image of popcorn popper tops that read (Popcorn)
 

Which Popcorn Machine is Right for Me?

Choosing the right machine can be overwhelming. Worry no more and ask the experts at Gold Medal. Whether you need a massive popcorn machine or you’re just starting your concession business, we can guide you to the machine that suits you best by simply answering the questions at Which Popcorn Machine is Right For Me?

Line of Popcorn Poppers by Gold Medal Products on table

Check out these 6 Questions for Evaluating Poppers and learn what size poppers work best with different types of venues.

View Questions

 

When choosing a commercial popcorn machine from Gold Medal Products Co., it's important to consider a variety of factors to ensure that you get the right machine for your needs. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Production Capacity: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a popcorn machine is its production capacity. Depending on the size of your venue and the volume of popcorn you need to produce, you may need a smaller or larger machine. Gold Medal offers a wide range of machines with varying production capacities, so you can choose the right one for your needs.
  • Size and Space: It's also important to consider the physical size of the machine and the space where it will be located. If you have limited space, a countertop machine may be the best option, whereas a larger venue may require a freestanding machine. You should measure the available space in your venue and choose a machine that will fit comfortably without impeding foot traffic or other operations.
  • Electrical Requirements: Another factor to consider is the electrical requirements of the machine. Some models may require higher voltages or specific electrical outlets, so it's important to ensure that your venue can accommodate the machine's electrical needs.
  • Accessories and Supplies: In addition to the machine itself, it's important to consider the accessories and supplies you'll need to produce and serve popcorn. This includes things like popcorn kernels, oil, seasoning, bags or boxes for serving, and cleaning supplies. Gold Medal offers a wide range of accessories and supplies, so you can choose the ones that work best for your needs.
  • Budget: Finally, it's important to consider your budget when choosing a popcorn machine. Commercial-grade machines can be a significant investment, but they can also offer a great return on investment if used properly. Consider the features you need and the volume of popcorn you need to produce, and choose a machine that fits within your budget.

Choosing the right popcorn machine from Gold Medal Products Co. requires careful consideration of a variety of factors, including production capacity, size and space requirements, electrical needs, and budget. By taking the time to choose the right machine and accessories, you can ensure that your popcorn production is efficient and profitable.

 
Live HTML
 
Popcorn Poppers on abstract art, with a checklist of sorts marked by X's.
 

Key Features of Gold Medal Poppers

 

Where Taste & Performance Meet

There’s a science to popping corn. Gold Medal is invested in providing the latest technologies to enhance the popping process. We design our machines with a focus on safety, simple operation, and ease of cleaning, all to help you produce the absolute best-tasting popcorn.

Gold Medal Icon for Big Eye Electronic Heat Control

Big Eye Electronic Heat Control

How much could an extra set of eyes benefit you? In this case, the Big Eye Electronic Heat Control automatically monitors the temperature, providing you with increased precision and control.

Gold Medal Icon for Brute Force Motors

Brute Force Motors

Gold Medal has strength where it counts. Large, powerful drive motors mean you have popper performance you can rely upon.

Gold Medal Icon for E-Z Kleen Kettles

E-Z Kleen Kettles

The secret behind the E-Z Kleen Kettles is the stainless steel cook surface. It's simple to maintain and the long-lasting performance ensures great-tasting popcorn every time.

Gold Medal Icon for Fire Suppression

Fire Suppression

Vent hoods and fire drops can be costly additions. Now, you can protect yourself with the highest level of safety in industry-tested PopClean poppers with the built-in Fire Suppression. Ideal for theaters, arenas, stadiums, and more.

Gold Medal Icon for FlexiPop so you can pop more popcorn

Flexi-Pop

It’s like two poppers in one! Pop half batches during non-peak times, then flip the switch to pop twice as much for high-demand periods. Your absolute best bet for high-efficiency productivitiy!

Gold Medal Icon for PopClean offering the best filtration systems

PopClean®

Gold Medal offers the highest level of filtration with PopClean. This unique integrated system functions by trapping and filtering steam smoke and oil vapors created during the popping process.

Gold Medal Icon for PowerOff Controls safety feature that turns the heat off automatically

PowerOff® Control

A popular safety feature that automatically turns off kettle heat after 15 minutes of idle time.

Gold Medal Icon for Twin-Arm Suspension kettle suspension

Twin-Arm Suspension

Operator safety is the top priority of the double-hung, twin-arm kettle suspension. It prevents accidental oil spills and gives more work room within the cabinet.

Gold Medal Icon for Uni-Maxx a unified heat and kettle element

Uni-Maxx®

Get the performance you need with a unified kettle and heat element, working together to provide the lowest energy consumption and maximum popping capacity.

Advanced Touch Screen Controls

This intuitive 7" touchscreen display panel is simple to use and provides operators the ultimate user experience. Operators enjoy upgrading to the Advanced Touch Screen Controls because of key features and benefits including: customizable mode of operation; easier to use and train employees; the ability to program and customize recipes; accessibility to videos for quick reference on training and cleaning machine; improved technician diagnostics; back-of-house data; free software updates; customizable exhaust system timeout; and so much more.

BIB Oil Level Sensor & Bucket Pump

You don’t have to question what your oil levels are. Located next to the popper controls, this sensor conveniently displays how much oil is left in the Bag-in-Box (BIB) oils. Available on Elite Popper® series only.

Kettle Guard

Take the extra step in safety with Kettle Guards, which help to prevent accidental kettle burns. Available on large poppers only.

Salt/Sweet Switch

Available on larger electronic popper (i.e., Big Eye) kettles, the salt/sweet switch gives you the option to pop sweet popcorn at the proper temperature, preventing sugar from burning.

High Top Kettles

Expansion is made easy with high top kettles! Designed for 32-oz and 52-oz poppers, the taller lid creates as much as 30% more space, allowing you to pop to the max.

Live HTML
 
Popcorn Poppers on abstract art, with a checklist of sorts marked by X's.
 

Popcorn Kernels, Flavors, and More

When it comes to making great-tasting popcorn, choosing the right kernels and ingredients is essential. Here are some things to consider:

Mushroom popcorn
Butterfly popcorn

Mushroom popcorn

Butterfly popcorn

Types of Popcorn Kernels:

Butterfly

The most common type of kernel is butterfly, which pops into a fluffy, butterfly-shaped piece of popcorn.

Mushroom

Mushroom kernels, on the other hand, are denser and have a rounder shape, making them better for applications like caramel corn.

 
Varying types of popcorn oils

Quality Ingredients

The best-tasting popcorn comes from the best of ingredients. Begin with fresh, high-quality kernels. Then use only the best popcorn oils and seasonings to enhance the flavor and texture. Using improper ingredients can result in popcorn that is stale, tough, or lacks flavor. Investing in your ingredients means the most delicious and satisfying popcorn every time.

 
Varying types of popcorn flavors and seasonings

Flavoring and Seasonings

Popcorn can be flavored and seasoned in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. Some popular options include butter, salt, cheese, caramel, candy glazes, and even spicy seasonings. When adding seasoning, it's important to mix it evenly throughout the popcorn for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different seasonings and flavors to find the ones that your customers will enjoy the most.

A box of Flavacol isolated

Flavacol®

The world’s most popular seasoning salt! Flavacol is the secret ingredient behind the iconic movie theater popcorn taste. Loved and trusted by cinemas, concession stands, and entertainment venues worldwide, Flavacol delivers that perfect mix of salty and buttery popcorn flavor. Crafted through a unique proprietary process, Flavacol features a finer flake instead of coarse crystals, enhancing flavor with reduced sodium. Gold Medal has a variety of options to choose from: Original Flavacol, Premier Flavacol, BB Flavacol, Reduced Sodium Flavacol, and Color-Free Flavacol.

 
A jar of Signature Blends - Birthday Cake flavor isolated with many more flavors to choose from

Signature Blends®

Blends or glazes consisting of sweet flavorings, coloring-only, and flavoring-only products. These are most often added during a cooking/baking process. Beyond popcorn, they can be used for waffles, funnel cakes, drinks, fudge, cakes, pastries, donuts, and even more.

View All

 
A bottle of BBQ Signature Shakes isolated one of many flavors

Signature Shakes®

These are shake-on flavors that are typically applied after the cooking/baking process. While still great for popcorn, these flavors are also made to shake on burgers, fries, salads, wings, steaks, pastas, seafood, dips, appetizers, and much more.

View All

 

Selecting the right popcorn kernels and ingredients is a key part of making great-tasting popcorn. By choosing high-quality ingredients, experimenting with different flavors and seasonings, and considering the dietary needs of your customers, you can create a delicious and satisfying snack that your customers will love.

Live HTML
 
Popcorn Poppers on abstract art, with a checklist of sorts marked by X's.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Popper

Maintaining and cleaning a commercial popcorn machine is essential for longevity and performance. Here are some overview instructions on how to do so, please refer to your equipment manual for detailed and complete instructions.

Cleaning

To clean a popcorn machine, start by unplugging it and allowing it to cool. Then, remove any unpopped kernels and wipe down the interior and exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. Use a mild cleaning solution to remove any stubborn stains or build-up. Be sure to rinse the machine thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before using it again. View all cleaning supplies.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance of a popcorn machine can help to keep it running smoothly and extend its lifespan. This includes replacing any worn or damaged parts, such as the heating element or kettle, as needed. It's also important to lubricate moving parts and check the electrical connections for signs of wear or damage. Find a nearby Gold Medal Service Provider.

 
— Popcorn Pricing Strategy —
— The "Decoy Effect" —

The phenomenon whereby consumers change their preference between two options when presented with a third option.

3 tubs of popcorn with one circled and different prices for each. Showing an example of consumer preferences with 3 options.
— Anchoring —

A common human tendency to rely too heavily, or 'anchor,' on one trait or piece of information when making decisions.

4 tubs of popcorn all the same size with a higher prices slashes out to show the sale price. Showing an example of human tendency to rely only on one piece of information.
white gold medal products logo
Live HTML Industry
 

Choose Your Industry

Looking for more detailed information on popcorn and other fun foods specific for your industry? Select your industry from the list below to learn more. Don't see your industry? Reach out to us today to connect with a dedicated concession specialist who will help you find the perfect solutions for your unique needs.

Rental
Grocery
Gourmet Popcorn
School and Sports

View All

 
Live HTML Promotions
Popcorn Poppers on abstract art, with a checklist of sorts marked by X's.
 

Promotions and Popcorn Business Ideas

There are many business ideas related to selling popcorn, either fresh or prepackaged, some of which include:

  • Concession Stand: Starting a concession stand at a fair, festival, or other public event can be a great way to sell popcorn and other snacks to a large crowd.
  • Gourmet Popcorn Shop: Opening a gourmet popcorn shop can be a great way to offer unique and delicious flavors of popcorn to customers.
  • Wholesale: Another option is to sell popcorn wholesale to other businesses, such as movie theaters, convenience stores, and grocery stores.
  • Online Store: Starting an online store that sells popcorn and popcorn-related products can be a great way to reach a wider audience.

Looking for more information? Dive into these blogs to learn more.

When considering these business ideas, it's important to think about the feasibility and profitability of each option. Factors to consider include start-up costs, demand, competition, and profit margins.

 
Live HTML Title
Live HTML
 

Popcorn Recipes

Popping Popcorn in White Coconut Oil in a 32oz Popper

For perfectly popped popcorn, using white coconut oil in a 32oz popper offers a delicious and healthier alternative. This recipe guarantees consistent results, making it a go-to choice for popcorn enthusiasts.

See Recipe

Glaze Pop® Base Recipe

Unleash the full potential of your popcorn with this Glaze Pop® base recipe! Learn how to create irresistibly sweet and crunchy popcorn that will be the star of any snack table.

See Recipe

Birthday Cake Popcorn in the Popper

Elevate your popcorn experience with this Birthday Cake Popcorn recipe, designed specifically for use in a popper. Combining the delightful flavors of birthday cake with the crunch of freshly popped popcorn, this treat is perfect for celebrations or a sweet indulgence any time.

See Recipe

Popping Popcorn in Yellow Coconut Oil

Yellow coconut oil is perfect for movie nights or snack time, this recipe ensures your popcorn is light, crisp, and irresistibly tasty. Elevate your popcorn game with this easy-to-follow recipe

See Recipe
Live HTML

Featured Videos

 

How To Clean Your Popper And Kettle

Live HTML

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A - Popcorn kernels contain water. When heated, the water turns to steam. Pressure builds inside until the kernel explodes open, creating the delicious popcorn we know and love.

A - All of Gold Medal’s equipment is built with quality in mind. Our popcorn machines come in a wide range of sizes, from compact 4-oz kettles up to giant 60-oz powerhouses and everything in between. In addition to your budget, space, and electric requirements, knowing how many servings you anticipate per day is a key factor. A great way to start narrowing your options is by completing the form, Which Machine is Right for Me? One of our professionals will work with you to determine what machines are your best choices.

A - The answer depends on the application. Do you want to make classic movie theater popcorn or a rich caramel corn? The right corn is determined by how you are coating or flavoring the popcorn. Butterfly and mushroom are the two most popular varieties.

A - To keep popcorn kernels at optimal quality, store them in a cool, dry place. Heat and humidity can impact the popcorn’s moisture content.

A - Authentic movie theater popcorn flavor is often imitated but not duplicated unless you have the right ingredients. The only way to enjoy true movie theater popcorn flavor is Flavacol. This unique popcorn seasoning salt is made through a proprietary process producing a fine flake rather than a crystal. The result is the best-tasting movie theater popcorn!

A - Wet popping is the most popular way to pop popcorn. It provides the familiar taste and texture that people enjoy.

A - There are multiple oils to choose from. Coconut and white coconut oils are the most commonly used. Other varieties include canola oil, corn oil, peanut oil, and blended oils. Experiment with your recipe and find the one that works best for you.

A - Finding the best popcorn packaging is a matter of preference. Gold Medal offers a wide range of packaging products from heat-seal bags to kraft window bags with tin ties to clear poly bags. Some options include ingredients and bar codes. Popcorn tins and tubs are also available for custom ordering. Our industry experts can help you choose the right packaging by analyzing your desired selling price, self-life needs, anticipated volume, and other factors.

A - Gold Medal knows popcorn. We off several varieties to meet our customers’ needs. We carry both butterfly and mushroom popcorn. You can also choose between yellow and white popcorn. In addition, we have everything from convenient portion pack kits to large 50-lb. bulk products. No matter what your popcorn needs are, Gold Medal has a solution.

A - In business since 1931, Gold Medal has earned a reputation for superior quality in our products and service. We prioritize building strong, supportive relationships that contribute to our clients’ success. From the initial consultation to comprehensive training, the longest warranty in the industry, and unmatched service, you can trust Gold Medal to be there for the long haul.

 

Exceed Expectations with Gold Medal

With Gold Medal, you don’t have to choose your popcorn machine blindly. We offer personal consultations, hands-on demos, and training. We have 17 branch locations and a global distributor network to serve you. For the highest level of support in the industry, trust Gold Medal for your popcorn needs.

A commercial popcorn machine can be a great investment for businesses or personal use. By selecting the right machine, using high-quality ingredients, and experimenting with different business ideas, you can create a successful popcorn business. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the machine is essential for its longevity and performance. If you're interested in investing in a commercial popcorn machine, be sure to check out our selection of machines and supplies on our website.

Interested in learning more? Call us today at 800-543-0862 or complete our contact form and get connected to a concession specialist.