Wednesday September 26, 2012

Americans Buying More Halloween Candy

Washington, D.C. — More Americans are expected to spend more money on Halloween candy this year, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation.

The study found that 96 percent of Americans plan to purchase Halloween candy, with the average buyer spending $24.25. This is up from last year, when 95.5 percent of consumers spent an average of $22.05.

With a record 170 million people planning to celebrate in some way, total Halloween spending is expected to reach $8 billion the NRF says. Around $2.33 billion is expected to be spent on candy.

Trends show that Halloween spending is growing in every category, including costumes, decorations and greeting cards, the federation reports.

“Halloween in general has become more popular with adults, its no longer just a children's holiday,” says Kathy Grannis, spokesperson for NRF. “In recent years we've seen adults taking this holiday to a new level, everything from attending haunted houses to planning to trick or treat. That is something we've watched grow over the past few years.”