Which Popper is Right for Me?

If you’re thinking about buying a popcorn machine, the amount of options can seem overwhelming. Don’t worry! With six simple questions, we can help point you in the right direction.

1. Where will the popper be used?
2. Who will be operating the popper?
3. How many servings do you need to make in one hour?
4. How much space do you have for the popper?
5. How much electric is available?
6. Who will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining the popper?

Small Venue Poppers:  For home and small business use, you should look at 4, 6, or 8-oz. poppers. These machines will produce 60-160 oz. of popcorn per hour. The convenient size means they can fit on a countertop or be paired with a cart. They run on a standard 120V 15-amp plug. All models come with a removable E-Z Kleen Kettle, so it is simple for anyone to clean and maintain. The PowerOff® Control is available on select models, which will automatically turn off after 15 minutes of idle time. This is ideal in situations when there is not a dedicated person operating the popper.

Commercial & Concession Poppers:  The next size up is the 12/14-oz. size, which is right for standard concession stands such as schools, corporate events and fundraisers. You can anticipate producing up to 210 oz. of popcorn per hour. Countertop or cart display is possible. This size also has a 120V 15-amp plug. For easy cleaning, each has the stainless steel E-Z Kleen Kettle. In most cases, the person operating the popper will be trained. For added safety, consider models with the PowerOff® Control.

High Traffic:  Larger concession stands need the volume of a 16-0z. popper capable of producing 240-320 oz. of popcorn per hour. This size works well in environments like retail locations, restaurants, cinemas and some stadiums/arenas. For space, it would require either a large counter space or a cart/base. The 120V 15-amp plug is still used for these models. Additional features include: E-Z Kleen Kettles, PowerOff® Control and Big Eye Electronic Heat Control. It is recommended that only trained employees operate this level of equipment.

Large Venues/Manufacturers:  When you require quality and quantity in your popcorn production, look at poppers sized 32 oz. up to 60 oz. Grocery stores, cinemas, stadiums/arenas and manufacturing facilities require this type of a popcorn powerhouse. Production rates range from 500-oz. to 1,200-oz. of popcorn per hour. These are floor models that run off of a 120/208V or 120/240V 50 amp plug. Features may include: updraft ventilation, fire suppression systems and filtration capabilities. Plus, with FlexiPop, you will be able to tailor the batch size. Training is required for all operators.

From the largest to the smallest operations, Gold Medal has the knowledge and experience to recommend the right popper for your needs! Eliminate the guesswork by contacting our concession professionals today at 562-355-4074 or via email at info@beachcitieswholesalers.com.

Ask our experts! 17 Ways to Pop for 2017!!

There isn’t a snack out there that delivers flavor variety like gourmet popcorn! With countless flavor combinations, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving. In honor of National Popcorn Day, we are highlighting 17 of our favorite flavors. Make it your goal to try them all this year!

1. Birthday Cake – What’s a better way to celebrate any occasion than with cake? Topped with sprinkles, this flavor is a party! (Item #2439 – Birthday Cake Candy Glaze)
2. Sriracha – It’s one of the hottest trending flavors in popularity and in taste! Red hot and garlic combine for a surge of spice. (Item #2517 – Sriracha Shake-On Seasoning)
3. Caramel & Cheese Corn – It’s a feast for your taste buds when you combine the sweetness of caramel with savory cheese corn. (Item #2694 – Caramel Old Fashion Corn Treat Concentrate Mix; Item #2328 – Premium Cheddar Pure Gold® Cheese Corn Paste)
4. Honey Mustard – Zesty, sweet and delicious to eat, this favorite condiment brings together a medley of deliciousness. This blend does not contain Yellow #5. (Item #2376 – Honey Mustard Shake-On Seasoning)
5. Chocolate – There’s no easier way to bring rich chocolate flavor and popcorn together than with Glaze Pop®! Just pop it by adding the mix to your kettle with your corn and oil. (Item #2523 – Chocolate Glaze Pop®)
6. Mediterranean Herb – New for 2017, this unique flavor combination captures the essence of the region with garlic, basil, rosemary and other seasonings. (Item #2658 – Mediterranean Herb Shake-On Seasoning)
7. Red Hot Cinnamon – For a candy-flavored burst of red hot cinnamon, you can’t beat the heat of this popcorn glaze. (Item #2526 – Red Hot Cinnamon Glaze Pop®)
8. Clean Label Cheddar – You can be health-conscious without sacrificing taste with this cheddar flavor that’s produced with no partially hydrogenated oils, artificial colors or flavors. (Item #2617 – Clean Label Cheddar Paste)
9. Vanilla Latte – Enjoy the fresh-brewed taste of vanilla latte anytime! The refined and not-too-sweet flavor makes this one a hit with coffee drinkers. (Item #2659 – Vanilla Latte Glaze Pop®)
10. Bacon – One of the most-loved flavors of all time, bacon is an addition that’s guaranteed to attract attention. (Item #2377 – Bacon Shake-On Seasoning)
11. Lemon Pound Cake – Make popcorn a part of dessert when you indulge in the inviting flavor of lemon pound cake. (Item #2474 – Lemon Pound Cake Shake-On Seasoning)
12. Cincinnati Style Chili – A signature recipe that Cincinnati is known for, this chili flavor mixes in hints of cinnamon, chocolate, onion and mustard for a must-taste combination. (Item #2473 – Cincinnati Style Chili Shake-On Seasoning)
13. Churro – Churros or Mexican Fritters are a light, flakey pastry coated in cinnamon and sugar. As a popcorn seasoning, this sweet treat will be an instant fave. (Item #2480 – Churro Shake-On Seasoning)
14. Ghost Pepper – Can you take the heat? This bold flavor will excite you as you encounter one of the world’s hottest peppers in this invigorating seasoning. (Item #2482 – Ghost Pepper Flavacol®)
15. Colorful Fruit Mix – When just one flavor won’t do, you’ve got to try a rainbow of tastes when you combine these fruity sensations. (Item #2294 – Green Apple Candy Glaze; Item #2290 – Blue Raspberry Candy Glaze; Item #2287 Black Cherry Candy Glaze; Item #2288 Orange Candy Glaze)
16. Wasabi – Horseradish and mustard flavors meet in this international favorite from Japan. Unlike anything else you’ve tasted, this flavor is not only eye-opening, but also may open your nasal passages. (Item #2434 – Wasabi Shake-On Seasoning)
17. Kettle Corn – Enjoy the classic that brings together salty and sweet in one irresistible flavor combination. (Item #2545 – Pappy’s Kettle Corn Mix)

Delicious and highly profitable, there are many more flavors of popcorn just waiting for you to explore! If you would like to create your own menu of unforgettable tastes, schedule a consultation with one of our concession specialists and ask about samples. Call Beach Cities Wholesalers at 562-355-4074 today!