Consumer Goods & Retail Innovation: Mars’ 2026 Halloween “Tricks, Treats and Trends” report says Halloween is a season, not a day—57% of U.S. adults agree, and many shoppers actively seek “textural” and “extreme” flavors; Mars is rolling out 120+ Halloween items, including new Skittles POP’d Creepy Crunch and Twix Skulls. Home & Everyday Products: A Costco shopper’s guide highlights repeat buys like oils, nuts, cheeses, and freezer staples, while Costco’s own product flow is framed as ongoing online and seasonal drops (including the Ninja Crispi portable cooking system). Food Sensory Shift: A new study warns GLP-1 use is changing taste and texture preferences—77% of users say their experience has shifted—forcing manufacturers to rethink flavor and mouthfeel. AI in Consumer Ecosystems: Amazon Ads’ Brand Innovation Lab argues creative should be “additive,” spreading product storytelling across entertainment and later shopping touchpoints. Security for Mass-Market Payments: Verifone secured a U.S. patent for wireless tamper detection to help stop card skimmers at unattended terminals. Pet Safety Rebrand: Sleepypod unveils a full rebrand around “Protecting What Matters,” leaning on crash-tested data and real-world accident insights. Manufacturing & Materials: Greene Tweed and Arrow McLaren co-engineered a lighter INDYCAR anti-roll bar lever using thermoplastic composite tech.