cover of episode Short Stuff: The Story of Spirit Halloween

Short Stuff: The Story of Spirit Halloween

2024/10/23
logo of podcast Stuff You Should Know

Stuff You Should Know

Key Insights

Why did Joe Marver pivot to selling Halloween items?

He noticed a Halloween costume shop across the street was more successful than his women's apparel store.

How many Spirit Halloween stores are there in the U.S.?

Around 1,500 stores.

Why are Spirit Halloween stores popular as memes?

They are often photoshopped onto abandoned or notable locations, like the White House during a government shutdown.

What is the significance of Spirit Halloween's partnership with children's hospitals?

They provide Halloween-themed care packages and support year-round programs and equipment for children's hospitals.

How does Spirit Halloween contribute to local communities?

They activate empty spaces with temporary shops, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and community engagement.

What is the main product range of Spirit Halloween?

Halloween costumes, decorations, and related items.

When does Spirit Halloween start and end its retail operations?

They open in early August and close on November 2nd.

Who owns Spirit Halloween now?

Spencer's Gifts.

How does Spirit Halloween manage its rapid expansion?

They hire district managers to oversee multiple stores and conduct annual training seminars.

Chapters

The chapter discusses the origins and early growth of Spirit Halloween, a seasonal pop-up store specializing in Halloween merchandise.
  • Spirit Halloween started as a women's apparel store that transitioned to selling Halloween costumes.
  • Founder Joe Marver saw the potential in seasonal Halloween sales and expanded the business rapidly.
  • The store became known for its temporary locations in abandoned malls and big box stores.

Shownotes Transcript

Every August, abandoned storefronts across America are filled with the spirit of Halloween, by way of the store, Spirit Halloween. Learn all about this wildly successful pop-up today.

See omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.