{
  "id": 16803960,
  "title": "Halloween Candy Prices Take a Scary Bite Out of Shoppers’ Budgets",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/27/halloween-candy-prices-take-a-scary-bite-out-of-shoppers-budgets",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-27T21:58:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "CNET",
    "slug": "cnet",
    "url": "https://www.cnet.com/news/halloween-candy-prices-take-a-scary-bite-out-of-shoppers-budgets/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As candy prices rise, Halloween shoppers face a frightening budget crunch. The cost of treats has surged in recent years, outpacing the general inflation rate, according to a recent report from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Ingredient costs have been the primary driver of this price increase. October sees a spike in candy sales as people stock up for parties, trick-or-treaters, or simply personal consumption. About 35% of Halloween seasonal sales are expected this week, according to a Hershey Company spokesperson.\n\nChocolate treats have become particularly expensive as a global cocoa shortage has squeezed the market. Despite higher prices, chocolate remains a popular choice for Halloween bags and buckets. In fact, trick-or-treat participation intent is predicted to remain on par with last year. Americans are projected to spend over $13 billion on Halloween this year, nearly double the $6.9 billion spent in 2015. Allison Zeller, a vice president at the National Retail Federation, notes that consumers still prioritize Halloween spending but are being mindful of affordability.\n\nCandy is the top choice for Halloween shoppers, with 95% planning to buy some this year, followed by decorations, costumes, and greeting cards. In 2026, Halloween candy spending could reach over $4 billion. According to a Groundwork Collaborative report, the Mondelez Sour Gummy Candy variety pack rose by 39%, while Hershey seasonal Peanut Butter Cups saw a 23% price increase.\n\nThe candy price hike extends beyond the candy aisle; higher utility bills and other essentials are also contributing to budget pressure. A recent Consumer Reports survey found that one in five American families have cut back on groceries due to rising energy costs. James Bricknell, CNET commerce managing editor, advises shoppers to take advantage of Halloween sales happening a few days before Halloween as stores clear out remaining stock. If you're all set for this year, consider stocking up on costumes and decorations after Halloween for use in 2027.",
  "summary": "Americans could spend over $4 billion on Halloween candy this year.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}