Alliance Data: Halloween spending growing across categories

New York -- More than half of consumers will spend more for the Halloween holiday than they’ll spend for either Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, according to the 2014 Halloween Happenings Survey by Alliance Data Retail Services, which manages credit card programs.



Some highlights include:



• 67% of consumers buy Halloween candy that they like, in case they want to enjoy a few treats before the tricksters ring the bell.



• Spending is growing across categories, with the majority saying they’ll purchase a variety of items, including candy, costumes, decor and party decorations/supplies. Only 14% indicate they will only spend on candy.



• 70% of those surveyed said they plan to buy Halloween décor this year, with more than 25% shopping at department stores and 20% shopping at home goods retailers.



• Two-thirds of consumers surveyed are planning to purchase their pumpkins and broomsticks online, but the vast majority will still be hitting the aisles, with 74% also shopping in-store.



“Halloween has clearly earned its place as a top shopping occasion for consumers,” Melody Gintert, senior manager, market intelligence for Alliance Data Retail Services said. “With more and more retailers tricking out their stores for the Halloween holiday, consumers increasingly are in for a treat when they embark on their shopping trips.”