Halloween is creeping closer, and if you ask me, there’s no reason the candy aisle should have all the fun. From spooky snacks and party spreads to festive displays, fresh produce has plenty of ways to cast a spell on shoppers. Creative merchandising, clever cross-promotions, and seasonal inspiration can transform the department into a Halloween destination. So, what tricks can retailers pull from their sleeves to scare up fresh sales? We called on our industry friends for some frighteningly good ideas…
“Honeycrisp apples continue to be a standout item for the fall holiday season because they resonate with shoppers across so many occasions, from everyday snacking to entertaining and seasonal recipes. Their broad appeal is reflected in sales, with Honeycrisp accounting for two of every 10 apples sold. A strong Honeycrisp program can help retailers build excitement throughout the department, especially when used as the foundation for multi-variety apple promotions and displays. As a recognizable flavor anchor, Honeycrisp can encourage shoppers to explore other varieties while driving category engagement and larger baskets. Programs like Lil Snappers® extend that opportunity by offering a family-friendly option that appeals to busy households looking for convenient, healthy snacks during the holiday season. Pairing displays with simple recipe ideas and holiday entertaining inspiration can further connect shoppers to fresh produce and support seasonal sales.”
“When most people think about Halloween, they think about candy, but there’s a big opportunity around entertaining. Families and people of all ages are hosting and attending themed events throughout the month—parties, movie nights, and get-togethers. That’s where SUNSET® Bombs® come in. They’re the easiest and freshest thing to add to a snack spread. No prep, no knife, just a bright pop of color and flavor people keep reaching for. My advice is to merchandise them into the entertaining set in the weeks leading up to Halloween, near the trays, dips, and cheese, not back in the tomato aisle. A bowl or board with Flavor Bombs®, Honey Bombs®, or Lolli Bombs® does a lot of work for very little effort, making them an ideal staple for entertaining.”
“With the holiday season quickly approaching, there’s no better time to enjoy Bee Sweet’s diverse variety line than now! Our wide selection of citrus items appeals to every shopper, making it easy to add vibrant, nutrient-rich produce to any meal. As food takes center stage at holiday and seasonal gatherings, our Navel oranges, Mandarins, and specialty items offer fresh, flavorful ingredients for our customers’ favorite entrees, desserts, and more.”
“Halloween isn’t always a holiday that naturally leads shoppers to the produce department, which creates a unique opportunity for retailers. Through in-store signage, merchandising, recipe inspiration, and digital communications, retailers can help consumers see how berries fit into Halloween celebrations, from festive fruit boards and spooky desserts to seasonal baking and family activities. California Giant offers a variety of seasonal recipes, photography, and usage ideas that retail partners can leverage in their own shopper communications to help bring these concepts to life. As shoppers look for creative ways to celebrate, a little inspiration can go a long way in showing how fresh produce can play a fun and flavorful role in the season.”
“Not every Halloween treat needs a wrapper. Some of the sweetest ones come with a peel. Fresh mangos add bright color and natural sweetness to any Halloween party. They’re great for fun fruit trays, spooky snacks, or a fresh break from the candy bowl. Mangos prove that a healthy treat can still be fun, festive, and delicious.” 
