Hershey relies on late Halloween sales amid volume pressures

The Hershey Company has warned that rising living costs could curb seasonal candy purchases, leaving the manufacturer reliant on a final surge in sales before Halloween. According to reports from Food Navigator and Food Dive, Chief Executive Officer Kirk Tanner stated in prepared comments for the third quarter earnings call that financial pressures on consumers are threatening to undermine volume growth. [1][2]

Food Navigator and Food Dive both reported that consumer budgets are facing pressure from inflation and higher gas prices. Food Navigator noted that high interest rates are also weighing on shoppers. Tanner explained during an October 29 call with investment analysts that while overall Halloween participation is expected to match 2025 levels, economic stress may shape final purchasing choices. [1][2]

Because Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, the final days leading up to the holiday will be critical to overall performance, Food Dive reported, citing Tanner. The manufacturer produces confectionery brands including Reese's, Kisses, Milk Duds, and Almond Joy. [2]

The warning follows broader trends across the confectionery sector. As FTMQ Food reported earlier, total United States candy sales expanded in value over the past year due to price increases, even as unit sales declined by more than 770 million units. [11]