Overview
- The National Retail Federation projects $13.1 billion in Halloween sales, averaging $114.45 per person, with costume spending expected at $37.62, up 11% from last year.
- Retailers report tariff pressure on seasonal goods, with Spirit Halloween citing storewide increases under the 30% rate on Chinese imports and industry groups warning of tighter inventory.
- Cocoa prices have more than doubled since early 2024 after sharp output drops in Ivory Coast and Ghana, lifting chocolate costs and nudging some shoppers toward cheaper non‑chocolate treats.
- Consumers, especially Gen Z and millennials, are leaning into thrifted, reused and DIY options, with Nielsen IQ tracking the shift and Huntsville thrift stores reporting heavy costume sales.
- Business strain is emerging as Trick or Treat Studios ties layoffs to tariff costs, the White House defends the policy, and the president threatens tariffs of up to 155% on Chinese goods starting Nov. 1 without a new deal.