Event Buzz: Candy Planning - Halloween 12/28/2015
The chocolatey goodness that fills Halloween bags every year is on the decline. During the ECRM Candy Planning: Halloween event, that took place at the beginning of December 2015, manufacturers and retail buyers noticed a significant decline in the number of chocolate items that were presented throughout the course of the event. Instead, novelty, sour and other non-chocolate candy proved to be a more popular option as we move into 2016. This is most likely due to the rise in cocoa prices while sugar prices stay steady.
Gluten-free and peanut free were also trending product options throughout the event. Retailers suggest that if an item is Gluten or peanut free that the packaging should include messaging that indicates that it is safe for people with such dietary restrictions.
Additionally, retailers are looking for larger bag sizes. By increasing the volume per bag, retailers can hit a higher price point with less scans at the register and consumers are not shying away from these increased costs. According to the Wall Street Journal, candy prices jumped 4.2% during October 2015 compared to prices in October of 2014.