MULLINS Special Occasions
Concessions and Grills
Frequently Asked Questions: Concession Machine Rentals
Posted by: Sarah Lawen Smith Aug 24, 2024

Concessions aren’t just for ball parks and movie theaters, they can be a great addition to a corporate event, fundraiser, birthday party, or wedding. Who doesn’t love popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, or nachos? We love being able to offer these as a way to add something fun, unique, and delicious to your event, but we understand that not everyone knows what goes into concession machine rental and operation. No worries! Both are easier than you think! Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions on concession rentals. Have questions not listed here? Give us a call!

How do I transport the machines?

While we do offer delivery services for concession machines, it is not often necessary. Most of our machines can be laid down to easily fit in the trunk or back seat of an SUV, a van, or even a sedan. The exception to this is our Frush-Eez slush machines. Much like a refrigerator or freezer, slush machines use a compressor to cool the freezing chamber, and laying one down can cause fluids to backflow through the lines and damage the system. Because of this, we require these machines to be transported completely upright, which often necessitates a larger vehicle with a tall or open trunk. If you are not sure if your vehicle is large enough, please call the office and we will be happy to give you the measurements of the machine you are interested in.

Do I need to clean the machines after use?

Concession machines are large and have a lot of moving parts, so they can be awkward and unwieldy to clean. That is why we clean them for you! Our kitchen crew are experts at cleaning around electric components and removing every bit of hardened chocolate, caramelized sugar, and greasy butter from these machines, so leave the deep cleaning to us. That being said, we do appreciate when you remove and throw away any food, drink, or candy remaining in the machines after your event.

How are the machines operated?

Our concession machines are very beginner friendly and often only require a button push or a switch flip. However, we do provide an instruction sheet along with your rental that you can refer to when it comes time to set up. Additionally, our office and warehouse staff are happy to demonstrate how to operate any machines upon request. 

Can I use and extension cord?

Yes and no. While the most reliable way to power our machines is to plug them directly into a power source, most of our machines (like our nacho cheese machine or cotton candy machine) can be plugged into an extension cord for use outdoors or away from a wall outlet. However, some larger machines (like our Frush-Eez slush machines) should not be connected to an extension cord as they require a larger power output that many extension cords cannot support.  

Where do I buy supplies to go with the machines?

Our concession machines prepare the food and drink, but you will need to load them with supplies and have a way to serve them. Great news! We have both! From popcorn kernels and bags to slush concentrate, cotton candy cones, and nacho cheese, we carry just about everything you need (just pick up your favorite chips from the grocery store). That being said, if we don’t have a specific flavor cotton candy sugar or snow cone syrup you want or you have your own supplies already, you are more than welcome to use your own.

What do I do with leftover concession supplies?

Our staff is happy to advise you on the amount of supplies you need to fulfill your event, and we will often suggest buying a bit more than you anticipate needing just in case. We don’t want you to run out! That being said, we also don’t want you to be stuck with products you don’t need. For that reason, we have a return policy where we will buy back any unopened supplies that remain after your event.

How long before my event should I run the machines?

Depending on the concession machine you are using, you may be able to use it right away, or you may need to run it ahead of time. Our popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cone machines can be plugged in, turned on, and ready to use within minutes. On the other hand, our Frush-Eez slush machines, nacho cheese machines, hot dog roller grill, and chocolate fountains require setup prior to your event to allow time to heat up or freeze the concessions. The slush machines require the most leeway as they take about 3 hours to fully freeze (this can be more or less depending on ambient temperature). Chocolate fountains and nacho cheese machines can take up to an hour to fully warm/melt directly in the machines, but this process can be sped up using a microwave. The hot dog roller grill should be given at least 30 minutes to cook before hotdogs are served. 

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