Candy prices surge four times faster than groceries ahead of Halloween
Retailers in Chicago report rising costs for treats and costumes, prompting community swaps and discount hunting as families prepare for October 31.
By Yasmin Duda ·
Candy prices in the Chicago area have climbed 7.7 percent over the past year, according to an analysis by the ABC7 Data Team. This rate of inflation is more than four times higher than the 1.8 percent increase seen in overall grocery prices. The data reveals a sharp divergence in cost trends as shoppers prepare for Halloween.
Robert Smith, a parent tasked with purchasing treats for the Five Peas in a Pod Halloween Party at Westinghouse High School, described the financial strain. Smith stated that he spent eighty-five dollars on ten bags of candy, calling the expense ridiculous. He eventually found a lower price at Stock 'n Save in Hermosa, a wholesale store open to the public.
Mo Fattah of Stock 'n Save said the family-owned business is managing higher operational costs while attempting to keep retail prices low. Fattah noted that despite internal cost increases, the store reduces those expenses as much as possible to retain customers. The business will also host its annual free Halloween party for the community on Saturday, October 31.
Rob Karr, president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, said retailers face difficult decisions regarding pricing. Karr explained that store owners want to remain open and keep customers happy, but they must also recover their costs. He described the struggle as real for businesses in the region.
Families are also facing higher costs for costumes. Marisa Ikpoh, president and founder of The Give and Receive, said the expenses for her four daughters add up quickly. Ikpoh stated that multiplying the price of a single costume by four highlights the financial pain for parents.
To assist families, Ikpoh started a pop-up Boo-tique costume swap at the 36th Ward Office. The annual event allows participants to exchange costumes instead of buying new ones. Ikpoh said the initiative helps parents who cannot afford new items by leveraging community resources.
The Boo-tique costume swap will be available on Friday, October 30. Organizers will accept costume donations after Halloween for use in next year's event. More information is available at thegivenreceive.org.
Source: ABC7 Los Angeles
