UK Halloween spending is set to rise by 3.2% this year to reach a value of £537m, a weaker performance than last year’s 4.1% increase, reflecting inflation-driven price rises in food & drink, rather than strong consumer demand. Six in 10 Halloween shoppers plan to reduce spending on the event due to financial constraints, and this budget-conscious approach is expected to inhibit consumers from splashing out on decorations and costumes. Retailers must showcase ranges that offer indulgence, seasonal appeal, and curiosity to encourage cautious shoppers to make purchases, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
GlobalData’s latest report, “Retail Occasions: Halloween Intentions 2025,” reveals that almost half of UK shoppers plan to participate in Halloween festivities this year. Yet, 60% of Halloween shoppers intend to curtail purchases for the event in 2025 amid financial pressures. This trend is most pronounced among 25–34-year-olds.
Eleanor Simpson-Gould, senior retail analyst at GlobalData, comments: “To appeal to this core Halloween shopper, retailers must promote low-cost Halloween items such as themed candles, drinks, and snacks to encourage small impulse purchases and boost volumes.”
A further risk to Halloween spending is the strong sentiment among consumers that Halloween is a waste of money. This perspective poses a challenge for retailers to change, as the event lacks the family-oriented appeal that characterizes occasions such as Mother’s Day and Christmas. GlobalData forecasts demand for food, drinks, and decorative items will increase due to traditional interest in pumpkins and trick-or-treating supplies in multipack bags. However, retailers should adopt more strategic range design approaches to enhance sales.
Simpson-Gould continues: “Retailers must offer innovative and enduring products to shift consumer perceptions of Halloween purchases. Fortnum & Mason stands out this year with its limited-edition Halloween hamper, containing Lucifer’s Marmalade and an Uncommon Chocolate Toad, offering luxurious and curiosity-driving items that elevate the occasion. Grocers must mirror this approach, utilizing the strength and popularity of their respective premium own-brand ranges to launch limited-edition and mystery flavor food & drink items.”
Simpson-Gould concludes: “Within non-food ranges, retailers must blend Halloween and autumnal motifs and colors to create homeware and clothing ranges that appeal beyond 31 October. Flying Tiger’s pumpkin-inspired ceramics, table linen, and candle holders are a great example of designs which capture the balance well. Clothing retailers should apply the same blended approach to loungewear and pyjamas so customers can buy into the season, not just the day.”
