Innovative Concession Equipment: Trends & Client Favorites
Concession stands, stadium kiosks, and mobile foodservice setups play a huge role in delivering quick, high-quality snacks and drinks. Whether it’s at a sporting event, fair, theater, or campus, customers expect both speed and excitement when they order from a concession counter. To meet those expectations, the right equipment makes all the difference. At Big A Distributors, we’ve seen some clear trends and client favorites emerge in the world of concession equipment.
1. Popcorn Machines – A Timeless Classic with Modern Features
Popcorn remains one of the top-selling concession snacks, and today’s machines are designed with efficiency in mind. New models include quick-heat kettles, LED lighting for display appeal, and easy-clean designs that cut down on downtime. Many operators are also opting for gourmet popcorn add-ons, allowing them to create specialty flavors that boost sales and customer excitement.
2. Cotton Candy Machines – Nostalgia with a Twist
Cotton candy is no longer just for the county fair—it’s making appearances at theaters, sporting venues, and even upscale events. New machines are compact, energy-efficient, and designed for faster spin-up, which keeps lines moving. Many operators now offer a wider range of colors and flavors, appealing to both kids and adults looking for a sweet, Instagram-worthy treat.
3. Donut Fryers and Warmers – Bite-Sized Indulgence
Mini donuts have become a customer favorite, especially at fairs, stadiums, and seasonal events. Automated donut fryers make it simple to produce consistent, bite-sized donuts quickly. Pairing fryers with warmers or display cases keeps product visible, fresh, and ready to serve—helping drive impulse purchases.
4. Pretzel Warmers and Display Cases – Crowd Pleasers
Soft pretzels are a go-to comfort food, and concession operators are investing in warmers and display cases that showcase them beautifully. Rotating displays and humidity-controlled cabinets keep pretzels fresh and warm throughout the day. Adding cheese sauce dispensers or sweet glaze stations makes pretzels even more versatile and profitable.
5. Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Machines – Cooling Down with Variety
From soft-serve ice cream to frozen slushies, frozen treats are always in demand. Newer machines offer quicker freeze times, multiple flavor options, and self-cleaning systems that save staff hours of maintenance. Operators also benefit from customizable serving sizes, perfect for everything from a quick refreshment to a premium dessert offering.
6. Beverage Innovations – Beyond the Basics
Concession beverage service is going beyond sodas and bottled water. From frozen margarita machines at stadiums to nitro cold brew coffee dispensers at entertainment venues, operators are diversifying their drink menus to boost revenue. Compact refrigeration units and portable dispensing systems make it easy to adapt to different crowd sizes and event needs.
Why These Trends Matter
Concession equipment isn’t just about serving food—it’s about creating memorable customer experiences that keep guests coming back. Modern equipment emphasizes speed, consistency, and visual appeal, while also giving operators flexibility to experiment with new flavors and menu options. Whether you’re outfitting a stadium concession stand, a theater, or a mobile food cart, choosing the right equipment can elevate both sales and customer satisfaction.
Partner with B&J Food Equipment
At Big A Distributors, we offer a wide range of concession solutions, from popcorn and cotton candy machines to pretzel warmers, ice cream equipment, and more. Our team can help you choose the right equipment for your space, menu, and budget—ensuring you’re ready to delight every customer.
Ready to upgrade your concession stand? Give us a call at 888-718-4701, to explore the latest trends in concession equipment.