Why Movie Theater Concessions Are Always Shockingly Overpriced

A night out at the movies can be quite a treat. Checking out the latest flicks on the big screen and indulging in your favorite foods (and classic movie theater candies) are all part of the fun of the communal viewing experience. Of course, when you find yourself having to make concessions for concession stand prices, the sticker shock alone can sometimes sour consumers. Take it from this former concessionaire, I've seen both sides of the snack stand and can speak to at least some of the impetus behind the inflated prices of movie theater concessions.

For one, movie theaters don't typically turn a major profit from ticket sales. The majority of money made from selling tickets goes back to the studios, leaving the theaters at a loss. To keep up operations and continue bringing fans the latest and greatest in film, movie theaters sell concessions at a high markup. This, coupled with inflation, has created a surge in both ticket and snack prices, especially as of late.

From personal experience, I can say that theater rules are fairly strict with regard to not allowing moviegoers to bring in outside food in an effort to keep snack sales in-house. Furthermore, employees are not only encouraged but, in most cases, required to upsell patrons to larger sizes to increase profit margins. Though the entire practice seems an exercise in futility and greed, it's nonetheless standard procedure across the board for almost all popular movie chains.

Some larger chains, such as AMC and Regal, offer subscription services to incentivize guests to come to the movies more frequently at a fixed monthly or annual rate. Again, given the nature of the limited profits from ticket sales, getting more patrons through the door who are willing to spend at the concession stand is the aim of such a business model. Beyond simple popcorn and soda, there are even some unexpected foods found at movie theaters across the U.S. made to further entice consumers.

Though you can always pop a bag of the popcorn of your choice in your microwave at home while watching a movie on any streaming service or home video, it simply isn't the same as snacking at your local theater. For example, Flavacol — the special salt that makes movie theater popcorn so delicious — is light-years beyond mere table salt. This seasoned and powdery substance makes all the difference, and I can attest to its advantages for creating the best taste and texture.

What's more is that a robust offering of sweet, savory, and salty snacks at your local theater opens up many possibilities for combining your favorites to savor all through your viewing experience. Mixing Raisinets, cookie dough bites, or even Hot Tamales into a bag of warm popcorn is one of the most enjoyable ways to amp up your typical movie theater fare. When you consider your movie attendance as a special occasion, getting special snacks can feel like a worthwhile indulgence.