The average bounce house rental generates $150–$350. Adding a popcorn machine, cotton candy machine, and snow cone machine to that booking can add $150–$300 in add-on revenue with virtually zero additional delivery cost — you're already going to the event. Concession machines are one of the highest-margin products in the party rental business.
The Core Three: What to Start With
Popcorn Machine
The most universally popular concession item for parties and events. Commercial popcorn machines are compact, easy to operate, and require minimal supplies (popcorn oil and kernels). Rent at $75–$125 per event; cost of supplies per event is approximately $8–$15. Margin is extremely high. The smell of fresh popcorn is also excellent marketing at any event.
Cotton Candy Machine
Beloved by kids and adults. Takes 2–3 minutes to learn to operate. Requires cotton candy sugar floss and paper cones. Rent at $75–$125; supply cost per event is $10–$20. Works well as a self-serve station if you provide training to the client or have staff operate it.
Snow Cone Machine
Perfect for summer events, especially alongside water inflatables. Requires ice and flavored syrups. The shaved ice version produces a better product than blade-style machines. Rent at $75–$125; supply cost $10–$25 per event depending on volume. Combine with your water slides and combos for a complete summer event package.
Getting Licensed
If you operate concessions at public events or serve food to paying guests, you may need a temporary food handler's license from your county health department. Requirements vary widely by state and municipality. Check with your local health department before taking your first concession booking. For private residential events, requirements are generally less strict.
Equipment Recommendations
Buy commercial-grade machines from the start — the residential units found at big-box stores are not designed for rental use and will break down quickly. Commercial popcorn machines (8oz capacity and above), commercial cotton candy machines with heating elements rated for continuous use, and commercial shaved ice machines all last significantly longer and produce better product.
Bundling for Higher Bookings
Create package bundles that combine inflatables with concessions:
- "Party Package": Bounce house + popcorn machine + cotton candy machine
- "Summer Fun Package": Wet/dry combo + snow cone machine + popcorn machine
- "Carnival Package": 2 inflatables + 3 concession machines + tables & chairs
Packages are easier to sell than line-item pricing and typically increase average booking value by 40–80%.
Supply Management
Buy supplies in bulk from restaurant supply stores or wholesale distributors (Sysco, US Foods, or local equivalents). Pre-portioned packets reduce setup time and waste at events. Keep a par stock of at least 5 events' worth of supplies at all times so you never decline a booking due to supply shortages.
