Trends and insights

What’s coming up in October 2025: Key dates for retailers

October marks the start of the cosy season, bringing cooler weather, darker evenings, and a shift in shopper behaviour.

For convenience store owners, October is a month packed with opportunity—from Halloween excitement to half-term snacking and indulgent movie-night treats.

Here’s what’s happening and how you can make the most of it in-store.

Seasonal Opportunities

Mid-late October

Halloween Hype

Shoppers are looking for treats, party snacks, and themed goodies. Think...

- Stock up on grab bags, mini packs, and sweet biscuits—perfect for trick-or-treaters

- Popular picks include Jaffa Cakes Jaffaween Bars and Iced Gems multi-packs

- Display ideas: Create a "Spooky Snacks" zone with themed packaging and bundle offers.

All October

Cosy Season Begins

As the temperature drops, shoppers start craving comfort, evening treats, and indulgent moments. Think...

- Stocking up with "Tea & Biscuit" pairings like Hobnobs, McVitie's Cookies and biscuit barrel favourites like Boubon Creams.

- Indulgent night-time treats like McVitie’s Signature and Flipz pretzels

- Display ideas: Use warm-toned POS and signage to evoke a homely, autumnal feel.

w/c 20th October

School Half-Term Holidays

With schools out, families are on the move—whether it’s day trips or just stocking up for home-based activities. Think...

- Chocolate bars for day trippers on-the-go... like Gold Billions, Club Layers and Penguins

- Display ideas: Set up a “Snack Station” with on-the-go formats and day-trip lunchbox fillers.

Make the most of Halloween

With Halloween continuing to increase in popularity, make sure to promote Halloween themed products to maximise your sales.

McVitie’s Jaffaween Cake Bars are great for trick-or-treaters, or as a scary-movie snack.

Wrapping up...

As the nights draw in and shoppers shift into seasonal mode, October is a golden opportunity to drive sales with timely displays, comforting favourites, and a touch of Halloween magic.

And don’t forget to order your free POS kits to help your customers find what they're looking for!

Stay stocked, stay seasonal, and make the most of the month ahead.