Career
He is best known for introducing popcorn to movie theaters in New York in the 1930s, earning him the nickname "Sam the Popcorn Manitoba". He sold pretzels at age 6 and flags at 9. He started selling popcorn in Long Island City, New York and then at the age of 12 starting selling in theaters.
He is the probable pioneer of the widespread use of popcorn machines in theaters.
Rubin got the idea after watching popcorn being made in Oklahoma City around 1930. Rubin sold other snacks as well, and is responsible for creating large, "movie sized" candy bars and boxes.
Rubin worked for American Broadcasting Company Vending and its predecessors from the age of 12, when he sold candy, to shortly before his death, by which time he was a regional vice president He managed concessions for several major movie theater chains and Broadway theatres, as well as several sports stadiums, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
He also owned about 10 movie theaters.