Unwrapping Halloween's Candy Economy

I hope you are in high "spirits" as we approach the spookiest time of the year.

As the days creep closer to Halloween, confectioners weave a sweet web in preparation for this enchanting holiday. Did you know that the National Retail Foundation projects Americans will spend a staggering $12.2 billion this Halloween? That's about $100 per household and amounts to a 15.5% increase in spending compared to last year's Halloween. And, out of the $12.2 billion, an impressive $3.6 billion will be spent on candy alone!1

What's changed? Celebrations like Halloween are exceeding even pre-pandemic levels. After being cooped up, we're all looking for a good excuse to spend more time with family and friends, even if that means spending more to have a festive celebration.

According to CandyStore.com, these are America's top favorite Halloween candies:

1. Reese's Cups
2. M&M's
3. Hot Tamales
4. Skittles
5. Sour Patch Kids
6. Starburst
7. Hershey Kisses
8. Candy corn
9. Hershey Mini Bars
10. Snickers²*

* Results from 15 years of sales data (2007-2022) from CandyStore.com

Wow! I can't believe Snickers is number 10. Definitely a favorite of mine. Did your favorite candies make the list? Will you be handing out candy to trick-or-treaters this year? And, for all the little ones asking, will you be handing out full-sized candy bars? Inquiring minds want to know! My kids remember from one year to the next, which houses give out full size candy bars! They are sure to hit those homes first! 

I am wishing you and yours a most "ghoulishly" fun and safe Halloween!

<sup>1. NRF.com, 2023
2. CandyStore.com, September 30, 2023</sup>