As October plows on well into Fall, Floridians are getting ready to celebrate Halloween, and retailers are urging them to buy local to avoid any scary impacts on merchants.
A National Retail Federation (NRF) consumer survey, published in the past week, shows that Americans are likely to spend a record amount on Halloween goods this year. According to the NRF report, 49% of Americans are kicking off their Halloween shopping early this year, and they are expected to collectively spend $13.1 billion across the country on the festivities.
That’s substantially more than the 2024 figure of $11.6 billion, and it would be a record that would surpass the previous high set in 2023 at $12.2 billion.
That $13.1 billion amount would come out to $114.45 being spent per person. That’s an $11 increase per person from last year.
The Florida Retail Federation (FRF) is in a campaign to guide Sunshine State consumers to their local stores during the Halloween season. The organization says that buying local will be less frightening for local economies when shoppers purchase from stores in their own town.
“Florida retailers are ready for a frightfully festive season,” said Scott Shalley, President and CEO of the FRF. “Whether you’re stocking up on candy or crafting the perfect costume, shopping early means you’ll get the best selection while supporting local retailers. And don’t let last-minute shopping haunt you; make sure to Find It In Florida when picking up all the seasonal surprises.”
Find It In Florida is an FRF initiative aimed at encouraging state residents to shop in Florida, and the organization amplifies this effort during holidays and special events.
The NRF survey shows three out of every four Floridians plan to celebrate Halloween this year, or about 73%.
Some 66% of Americans will do that by handing out candy. Another 51% will dress in some costume, 51% will decorate their homes or yards, 46% will carve pumpkins and 32% will attend or host a Halloween party.
Some 42% of Americans plan to buy their Halloween ghostly goods at discount stores, which remain the top destination for purchasing merchandise for the holiday.
The NRF administered a questionnaire to 8,045 American consumers between Sept. 2 and Sept. 9.