Halloween spending boost predicted, ARA urges retailers to get on board

With cost of living pressures front of mind, Aussies are looking to let loose and become someone else for a night of fun, where bills aren’t the only cause of fright as goblins and ghouls take to the streets this Halloween. 

More than 5.3 million Australians will celebrate Halloween this year, with spending forecast to reach $490 million. This is up 14 percent, or $60 million on an already impressive spend of $430 million in 2022, considering the holiday has for years been disregarded as a solely American affair. 

In the United States, the National Retail Federation is predicting a record $12.2 billion spend. While Australia is yet to hold a candle to those numbers, Halloween continues to gain traction with 300,000 more Australians this year planning to celebrate on October 31.

Research from Australian Retailers Association (ARA) in collaboration with Roy Morgan has found average Halloween spending is projected to be $93 per person with most planning to purchase a costume, sweets for trick or treaters, and home decorations. 

According to the research, those celebrating Halloween plan to do so in a variety of ways, such as attending or hosting a Halloween themed party, decorating their homes, getting dressed up and going out, or staying home and welcoming trick or treaters.

ARA CEO Paul Zahra encourages retailers to get on board and embrace the spooky season.“Retailers are also coming to the party with themed windows and store displays as part of big promotional push in the lead up to October 31. Halloween is a great chance for Australians to let their hair down and partake in some spooky silliness during this challenging economic period. It’s also important for retailers to build sales momentum in the run up to Christmas.”

“Halloween is now a global phenomenon and is increasingly becoming a cherished Aussie tradition. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to have fun and get creative – to go costume shopping, give the home an eerie makeover or host a party,” Mr Zahra said. “It’s a welcome break from routine and a chance to get together with friends and loved ones to do something fun.”