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Thursday, March 28, 2024 | Back issues
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Exorbitant Price of Movie Theater Snacks Brings Suit

DETROIT (CN) - It had to happen: A man filed a class action against a movie theater chain over the exorbitant prices of its Cokes and Goobers.

Joshua Thompson sued American Multi-Cinemas (AMC), claiming its Livonia theater jacks up the prices of its junk food to nearly three times the cost of what they go for at a CVS Pharmacy and McDonald's, less than 2 miles away.

Thompson claims in Wayne County Court that the AMC movie chain's price gouging violates the Michigan Consumer Protection Act.

"On December 26, 2011, plaintiff purchased one large 32 oz. Coke at a total cost of $1.06 from McDonalds located at 39555 Six Mile Road, Northville Township, MI 48167," Thompson says in his complaint.

"The McDonald's referenced above is located 1.33 miles from the AMC Theatre Livonia 20 located at 19600 Haggerty Road, Livonia, MI 48152.

"On December 26, 2011, Plaintiff purchased one 3.5 oz. box of 'Goobers' from CVS/pharmacy located at 16855 Haggerty, Northville, MI in the total amount of $1.67.

"The CVS referenced above is located 1.27 miles from the AMC Theatre Livonia 20 located at 19600 Haggerty Road, Livonia, MI 48152.

"On that same day, December 26, 2011, plaintiff purchased one small 32 oz drink (a Coke) at the cost of $4.50 and one 3.5 oz box of 'Goobers' at the cost of $3.50 from AMC Theatre Livonia 20.

"Neither McDonalds' carry-out nor AMC Theatre Livonia 20 offered free refills on their drinks.

"Plaintiff spent a total of $2.73 for the Coke and 'Goobers' purchased outside the movie theater.

"Plaintiff was charged $8.00 for the exact same items by AMC, three times the amount charged for the exact same items purchased outside the theater.

"Other food, snack and beverage items are likewise priced.

"In addition, AMC prohibits patrons from bringing refreshments and snacks and food into the theater."

Thompson seeks class damages of $25,000 to $5 million.

He is represented by Randall Pentiuk and Kerry Morgan, with Pentiuk Couvreur, of Wyandotte, Mich.

Attorney Morgan told the Los Angeles Times that what drove his client to court was the theater's posting a sign prohibiting people from bringing in their own snacks.

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