why is popcorn sold at the movie theater?

Answer 1

This is the 2004 obit of the man who conceived the idea of Popcorn in front of the movies, Samuel Rubin-http://cinematreasures.org/news/11343_0_1_0_C/

BOYNTON BEACH, FL — Samuel M. Rubin, who was the first movie concession stand operator to incorporate popcorn into his product line, — and, thus, the creator of the decades-long tradition of popcorn at the movies — has died at the age of 85, according to a report on Yahoo! News.

Before concession stands, movie theaters were commonly equipped with automated vending machines. But, one day, in a pinch, a young Rubin began selling candy from the top of a broken vending machine, an early predecessor of today’s concession stand.

A few years later, on a trip to Oklahoma City, Rubin witnessed popcorn in action. When he returned to the New York City area, he began selling popcorn to audiences at various RKO, Brandt, and Loews theaters. The product caught on like wildfire, filling the coffers of popcorn suppliers and landing the concessionaire the nickname of “Sam the Popcorn Man.”

Rubin is survived by his wife, his two sons, a brother, and several grandchildren.

Answer 2

It is sold because at one time they used to sell it outside the theaters and eventually it became so popular that the theaters decided to bring it in and sell it inside the theater. Nowadays, concession stand sales are how theaters pay the bills. Ticket sales pay for the film but the popcorn pays for the electricity and the people and so on. That is why they still sell it. It pays the bills.

Answer 3

In some theatres more revenue comes from the popcorn sales than from admissions. Other theatres have intermission where drinks and candy are sold as well as popcorn. Since a ready market exists with patrons whatever extra income you generate is all gravy.

Answer 4

Because it keeps your mind off the movie if it turns out to be crappy.

Answer 5

while it tastes good, and it makes u addictided so u buy more and then u get thirsty so u buy a drink (and so on)

Answer 6

cuz i get hungry and i like the way it tastes... they do it for me

Answer 7

to make money