The commercial popcorn maker market in the USA is dominated by a few key brands known for their durability, high-volume output, and quality. The price for a machine can vary widely based on the kettle size (measured in ounces, which dictates volume) and features.
Here are the crucial brands and a breakdown of their typical price ranges for commercial-grade machines:
Crucial Commercial Popcorn Maker Brands in the USA
The three most recognized and influential brands are Cretors, Gold Medal, and Paragon.
| Brand | Reputation/Target Market | Typical Price Range (Countertop Models) |
| Cretors | Premium, high-volume, and institutional use (movie theaters, stadiums). They invented the first popcorn machine. | $1,500 – $21,000+ |
| Gold Medal | Industry standard, wide variety of sizes for all commercial applications (concession stands, large venues). Excellent durability. | $600 – $8,000+ |
| Paragon | Excellent quality, known for nostalgic/theater-style designs and reliable mid-volume performance (schools, small theaters, rental companies). | $600 – $1,500+ |
Other popular brands that offer reliable entry-level and budget-friendly commercial options include Carnival King, Great Northern, and Adcraft.
Commercial Popcorn Machine Price Breakdown
Commercial popcorn machines are typically categorized by their kettle size. The price increases significantly with kettle size, as larger kettles require more powerful heating elements and a more robust cabinet.
| Kettle Size (oz) | Equivalent Popcorn Servings (1 oz bags) | Price Range (General) | Ideal For |
| 4 oz - 8 oz | 60 - 150 servings per hour | $250 – $900 | Low-volume concessions, offices, home theaters, small events. |
| 12 oz - 16 oz | 200 - 300 servings per hour | $800 – $2,500 | Mid-volume concessions, schools, sports arenas, rental operations. |
| 20 oz - 60 oz+ | 400 - 1,200+ servings per hour | $2,500 – $21,000+ | High-volume applications, movie theaters, large stadiums, and theme parks. |
Product Examples and Prices
To give you an idea of pricing for specific machines from the key brands:
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The (8 oz. kettle, mid-level commercial) is typically priced around $629.00.
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A comparable model like the (8 oz. kettle) often falls around $808.50.
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A larger, more budget-friendly commercial option, such as the (12 oz. kettle), can be found for around $318.20.
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