Embracing the Spirit of Halloween: What Should You Expect This Season?

The excitement for Halloween is starting to build and one of the biggest times of the year for our industry is approaching; and we can feel it in the air. The leaves are falling, and the night is coming! Let us investigate the ghosts of the past, present, and future to maximize sales and product innovation. Here's a sneak peek into what we can expect: 

Insights from last Halloween

Last year, while dollar sales were up, (because of inflation), the number of units sold, and overall volume saw a decline. This shows a shift in consumer behavior, driven by economic factors and changing habits. 

Trends

 

Bulk buying:

Super bulk options are gaining popularity among consumers.    

Many Candy Big Bag

 

Kits – make it yourself:

We are seeing a rise on the baking side with everything from cookie decorating to haunted house gingerbread kits. 

Gingerbread Haunted House

 

WOW Trick-or-Treating

Enhance the trick-or-treat experience by utilizing packaging with a personality; a treasure chest kids can take out of, or a bowl that looks like a pumpkin.

Hershey's Halloween Assortment Pumpkin Bowl 175 ct | Shipt

 

Market Competition

Private brand sales showed significant growth, which is important to note given that private label has historically not played in seasonal. This suggests that consumers are looking for cost-effective options. 

Snacks have also emerged as a significant competitor in the Halloween aisle, proving consumer preferences are diversifying. 


Changes in Consumer Behavior

Halloween celebrations are becoming less one-minded, especially among younger parents (millennial and gen z). Many are opting for different activities such as "Switch Witch", with the idea of a healthier option for their kids. It is also important to note that there is a decline in trick or treating which might be caused by alternate activities like Trunk or Treat. This shift has relevance, and we should adapt our packaging to consumer activities.  

 
Looking Ahead

Halloween is the perfect season to be bold and experimental with packaging, do not fear new trends, but embrace them. The key to success in every season is to understand and respond to evolving trends; Halloween is no different. At creative werks we stay ahead of the curve in our dynamic industry by constantly staying on top of trends through our market research team.  

Are you ready to take your Halloween season to the next level? Contact us to find out how our innovative packaging solutions will keep you ahead! Do not hesitate and miss out, book a session with Werkshop Design Group today.