Retailers and sweets makers are cashing in on the rising enthusiasm among Japanese for Halloween, a Western tradition that has become popular here only in the past decade.
Some industry sources even predict the Halloween-related market will surge 60 percent from last year as more Japanese get into wearing costumes, saying "trick or treat" to neighbors or simply looking for an excuse to party.
"Convenience stores and department stores began Halloween decorations two or three weeks earlier this year. Sales of sweets and snacks in Halloween packaging are really strong," said Kiyoshi Kase, representative of the Japanese Anniversary Association, an independent group that helps businesses' sales campaigns by creating and pitching various "commemoration" dates. "Related industries want to get on the bandwagon," he said.
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