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Hershey's will raise chocolate prices this fall

Hershey's plans to increase chocolate prices as cocoa costs remain high, but Halloween prices hold steady.

July 23, 2025 at 06:22 PM

Chocolate maker Hershey's plans to raise prices but not for Halloween candy

Hershey's announces a price increase on chocolate while keeping Halloween candy prices steady.

Hershey's plans price hike for chocolate products this fall

Hershey Company has announced plans to raise retail prices on many of its chocolate products this fall due to rising ingredient costs driven by a fluctuating cocoa market. Although the company will not raise prices for Halloween candy this year, they will implement average price increases in the low double-digit percentages while also reducing pack sizes in some cases. This decision comes as cocoa prices have seen volatility, more than doubling over the past two years due to poor weather and disease in cocoa-producing regions of West Africa.

Key Takeaways

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Hershey's is raising prices on many chocolate products this fall.

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Halloween candy prices will remain unchanged this year.

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Cocoa prices have significantly increased due to supply issues.

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Average chocolate bar prices in the U.S. rose by 41% since July 2021.

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Consumer demand is declining as chocolate prices rise.

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Market conditions remain uncertain, causing volatility in cocoa pricing.

"This change is not related to tariffs or trade policies. It reflects the reality of rising ingredient costs."

A statement from Hershey clarifying the reasons behind the price hike.

"It's almost a bit dangerous to comment on this because it's changing so fast."

Cloetta's CFO emphasizes the volatility in cocoa prices that affects market predictions.

"The development of the global chocolate market...with cocoa prices remaining close to record highs."

Lindt's CEO explaining the ongoing pressures in the chocolate market due to cocoa pricing.

The pricing strategy by Hershey reflects broader market pressures faced by chocolate manufacturers. With cocoa prices remaining near historical highs, the choice to increase retail prices seems inevitable for many companies. Customers are also feeling the impact, as higher prices can lead to reduced demand for chocolate items. As more companies like Lindt and Nestle have already increased their prices this year, consumers may soon have to reassess their chocolate consumption amidst financial pressures.

Highlights

Price hikes for chocolate items are on the way, but Halloween candy is safe this year.
Cocoa prices have more than doubled in just two years, creating tough choices for businesses.
Higher prices mean fewer chocolate bars bought, impacting both consumers and manufacturers.
The chocolate market is facing uncertainty amid ongoing cocoa price volatility.