Movie Theater Concessions?
Do you purchase concessions when you go to the movies? Personally I avoid them for obvious reasons. They’re absurdly priced! There’s no way a bottle of water should cost $3.50, and yet it does at my local movie theater. Most likely you’ve encountered similar prices at your theater of preference. Now, the question is what can you do to avoid forking out so much dough on popcorn and candy, but still enjoy the flick you’re watching?
Stashing the snacks is an obvious alternative. Although movie theater owners frown upon this “crime,” most of us see no harm in it. If you didn’t already know, concessions are how they make their profit; therefore you can see why they charge such ridiculous prices. But who has eight bucks to spend on nachos or five dollars for a soft drink? I can’t say that I do. Furthermore, I’d feel like an idiot for spending it.
Don’t feel too bad if you conceal a box of Goobers or hide a bag of M&Ms in your jacket the next time you head to the theater. After all, you’ll be paying a good 8-9 bucks for that movie ticket anyway.
Article: Movie Theater Economics
Article: Cinema Snacks
Article: Ticket Prices
May 12th, 2007 at 10:52 am
No kidding — concessions are crazy! You end up spending more on the concessions than you do to get into the movie! Sure, I can understand it, considering this is where the majority of their profit comes from, but there is supply and demand to consider as well — could it be they might sell MORE if the price was more reasonable? Hmmm!
May 30th, 2007 at 11:07 pm
I prefer going to the independent theaters. The film choice is a little more eclectic, there are less kids, and they serve alcohol at prices comparable to your local bar. With wine and a sophisticated flick, you can have the best of both worlds.
July 9th, 2007 at 11:58 am
Interesting follow up, Clint — I have a friend who recently embarked on a small movie theatre venture and this person tells me there is over a 500% mark up on concessions — OUCH. We knew they were expensive, but this is ridiculous. Popcorn is one of the cheapest commodities on the face of the planet, so how come it increases value inside a movie theatre??? Interesting.