SHORT TAKES : Nachos Upstage Superstars

Harrison Ford, Chevy Chase and Sean Connery are here at the annual convention of theater owners, but the people at Proctor Cos. swear the biggest star around is Proctor’s new nacho cheese dispenser.

More than 80% of a theater’s profits are generated at the concession stand, and many of the 3,000 executives gathered for the National Assn. of Theater Owners ShoWest trade meeting are seeking every opportunity to squeeze the snack bar for a few more dollars.

Given that motivation, Hollywood superstars, previews of upcoming attractions and endless cocktail parties take a back seat to such inventions as the $450 Hot Topper, which Proctor says can squirt out melted nacho cheese, fudge or butter without mess and little waste.

And what food innovation will you see soon at a theater near you? Perhaps iced cappuccino, which comes in three flavors--chocolate, amaretto and classic--and will sell for about $1.50.