Retailers cast hiring spells with Halloween efforts
Although it is considered one of the shortest shopping seasons of the year, consumers turn out in droves to buy their Halloween costumes and associated supplies. This year, specialty retailers are expecting significant increases in spending for the season, as economic conditions continue to improve.
According to a survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF), approximately seven out of 10 Americans are planning on celebrating Halloween this year. This represents approximately 170 million people, or 71.5 percent of respondents. This is an increase from the 68.6 percent that partook in Halloween festivities last year. The study anticipates that spending will rise also, with the average cost of each person purchasing $79.82 for related items, up from $72.31 last year. The total amount of Halloween spending is expected to reach $8 billion this year, reports the NRF.
Many retailers specializing in Halloween-related items open up leading up to the season. The Rockford Register Star states that many of these merchants in the Rockford, Illinois, area are already seeing high sales from consumers. Two big name seasonal retailers, Spirit and Halloween City, are opening up 1,000 and 400 stores nationwide, respectively. Smaller merchants are also experiencing success from costume rentals and other associated supplies.
