’Tis the season of sweater weather, pumpkin spice everything, spooky chills and sweet treats. The onset of autumn is a time of nostalgia for many, and Halloween, in particular, holds a special place in our hearts, minds … and wallets. This year, Americans are expected to spend $10.1 billion to celebrate Halloween, up from $8 billion in 2020, according to the National Retail Federation. Promo companies can harness that holiday spirit and fall nostalgia to boost goodwill among clients and co-workers.

In this episode of Promo Insiders, ASI Media’s Theresa Hegel, Sara Lavenduski, John Corrigan and Melissa Newman dish on their favorite Halloween candies, most epic costumes, must-watch movies and more. They also share a few ideas for how promo pros can make the most of the holiday spirit.

Podcast Chapters (Available Only on Desktop):
3:30: What’s your favorite Halloween candy … and why is it NOT candy corn?
8:27: When it comes to fall films, are you a Hocus Pocus or Halloween fan?
11:25: Can you guess which ASI Media staffer once dressed up as a whoopie cushion?
15:49: How promo companies can creatively leverage autumn and Halloween

Brands this year have gotten creative with their fall and Halloween-themed promotions. Dunkin’ has a range of costumes that include a giant cup of cold brew for adults and a bite-sized box of Munchkins for the younger set. Hidden Valley Ranch debuted both a giant ranch bottle costume and treat-sized packets of ranch for the trick-or-treat bowl. But the topper this year, perhaps, comes from Franzia. The boxed wine company released a costume that turns the wearer into a human box of wine. An internal side pouch allows the wearer to carry a full bag of Franzia. When it’s worn underneath the costume, the wearer can actually dispense wine.

These kinds of seasonal merch drops are guaranteed to generate buzz. But there are other ways promo companies can tap into the holiday. Consider sending a sweet food gift to loyal clients or as a thank you to hard-working employees. Or target retailers with special Halloween-themed reusable bags that can be given out to kids before they hit the neighborhood for trick-or-treating.

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