Halloween grows in France

Six out of ten French people now celebrate Halloween, according to the Obscoco (Society and Consumption Observatory). The event has become a major commercial period for confectioners, with the French Confectioners' Union reporting that in 2025, it generated 161.5 million euros in revenue.

Candy sales increase but turnover stays the same

Despite an increase in the volume of candy sold, the turnover for the confectionery sector has remained stable. In 2025, nearly 18,400 tonnes of Halloween-related products were sold, but the overall revenue did not increase, according to the French Confectioners' Union.

Halloween's share of confectionery sales

Halloween represents 13% of the annual volume of sweets sold in France, according to NielsenIQ. It also constitutes between 12% and 15% of the annual turnover for confectioners. Candy sales increased by 3.4% between 2023 and 2025, but this growth did not lead to higher overall revenue.

Price changes affect consumer spending

The French Confectioners' Union notes that while candy sales have increased, turnover has not. This is partly due to price changes. According to the association Que Choisir, the average price of Halloween candy packs is expected to decrease by 4% in 2026, following a 3% drop in 2025. However, this does not fully offset a 21% price increase in 2023, driven by rising sugar costs.

Haribo adapts to economic challenges

Virginie Orezzi, marketing and R&D director of Haribo France, explains that inflation affects more than just raw materials. Packaging and transportation costs also play a role. To address this, Haribo has introduced smaller, more affordable candy sachets. The average price of a candy packet in France is 2.10 euros, aiming to provide a small, affordable treat for consumers.

French households spend consistently on sweets

The average French household spends 41.50 euros per year on sweets, with little change in the last three years. The French Confectioners' Union considers this amount "reasonable and accessible to many French people." However, consumers are cautious and reluctant to increase their spending on sweets.

Halloween as a community event

Beyond the numbers, Halloween is valued for its community spirit. In neighborhoods like Toulouse, residents like Magali P. have embraced the tradition of giving candy to children. Her home is decorated with fake spider webs and a cardboard skeleton, encouraging children to visit and ring the doorbell. This event fosters interaction among neighbors, offering a break from the usual routine.

Haribo supports neighborhood traditions

According to Virginie Orezzi, the door-to-door tradition of Halloween affects 75% of French households. To support this, Haribo France offers mini individual sachets and buckets filled with small candy packs. These formats are seen as more hygienic and reassuring for both those giving out candy and those receiving it. The variety of candies in these sachets is designed to please both children and their parents.