Halloween spending in the UK is forecast 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. This is according to research by GlobalData, which suggests Halloween shoppers plan to reduce spending on the event due to financial pressures.
The report – Retail Occasions: Halloween Intentions 2025 – reveals that almost half of UK shoppers plan to participate in the festivities this year. Yet, 60% of Halloween shoppers intend to curtail purchases, a trend most pronounced among 25–34-year-olds.
Eleanor Simpson-Gould, senior retail analyst at GlobalData, commented: “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. The study notes that this perspective poses a challenge for retailers to change, as the event lacks the family-oriented appeal that characterises 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, it notes that retailers should adopt more strategic range design approaches to enhance sales.
Simpson-Gould adds: “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, utilising the strength and popularity of their respective premium own-brand ranges to launch limited-edition and mystery flavour food & drink items.
“Within non-food ranges, retailers must blend Halloween and autumnal motifs and colours 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.”
