Rising Halloween candy prices strain shoppers

TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) – Rising candy prices are increasing the cost of Halloween for shoppers, with federal data showing candy prices up nearly 8% in a year.

The National Retail Federation projects $13.5 billion in Halloween spending, averaging more than $115 per person.

Experts point to rising shipping costs, tariffs and higher ingredient costs, including sugar, as drivers of higher prices.

Shoppers feel higher costs

Logan Giompoletti, a Pontotoc resident, said she expects to spend more than $150.

“Probably like 150 bucks at the most you still have to have to buy. So I mean, probably more than 150 actually,” Giompoletti said.

One bag of candy was priced at $29.

Tupelo resident plans 1,000 bags

Gina Wren, a Tupelo resident, said she has spent almost $600 on candy at Sam’s Club and her shopping is not over.

“Last year I spent probably over 1,000,” Wren said.

Wren has kept Halloween alive in Tupelo’s Joyner neighborhood for 16 years. What started with 25 to 50 bags has grown to a goal of 1,000 bags this year.

“Last year, I did 900. And within an hour and a half those were given out,” Wren said.

Despite high costs, reports show 74% of consumers will still spend the money.

“This is my thing. I love Halloween, and it’s a lot of cost to me. But I just love giving out to the community and giving back to the kids,” Wren said.