Cineplex Inc. is giving unsold concession snacks a second chance through a partnership with the mobile app Too Good To Go. The movie theatre chain announced Wednesday that the majority of its 168 locations across 10 provinces will sell surplus popcorn, nachos, and hot dogs at a discount, aiming to reduce food waste.
How the Program Works
Consumers can find nearby participating Cineplex theatres through the Too Good To Go app without needing to buy a movie ticket. Theatres offer two types of “surprise bags”: one with popcorn for $5.99 and one with a mix of concession snacks—popcorn, nachos, and/or hot dogs—for $8.99. Once reserved, customers visit the theatre during a designated pick-up window, show their in-app receipt, and swipe to confirm pickup with a concession stand employee.
Reducing Waste and Meeting Demand
Kevin Watts, Cineplex’s executive vice president of exhibition, LBE, and film, explained that in food service environments where demand varies throughout the day, some surplus concession items at the end of service were unavoidable. Prior to this partnership, those unsold items would typically not be resold and could go to waste. A pilot program of the service had “encouraging early demand,” and Cineplex expects the appetite for discounted concessions to grow over time.
Too Good To Go’s Impact in Canada
Founded in Denmark in 2015, Too Good To Go operates in towns and large cities across Canada and works with major chains such as Tim Hortons, Loblaw Cos. Ltd., and Metro Inc., as well as local independent restaurants, cafes, and grocers. Luke Slinger, head of key accounts for Too Good To Go Canada, noted that Canadian consumers currently save nearly 100,000 bags of unsold food every week through the marketplace app.
This initiative not only helps Cineplex reduce waste but also offers consumers a chance to enjoy concession snacks at lower prices, contributing to a more sustainable food system.
