Overview
- U.S. consumers are projected by the National Retail Federation to spend a record $13.1 billion on Halloween, with a Friday holiday expected to lift participation.
- Global cocoa supply is reported at a 60-year low tied to heavy rain in South America plus drought and crop disease in Africa, pressuring chocolate costs.
- Research cited by WRTV shows candy prices up about 8% from last year and roughly 20% over three years, with tariffs and shipping costs adding to inflation.
- Shoppers are turning to non-chocolate options that deliver better value per ounce, including gummies, sours and trending freeze‑dried candies.
- Buying in bulk at retailers such as Costco, Amazon, Target and Walmart reduces per‑piece prices, though store owners say chocolate remains the top choice despite higher costs.