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The Rise and Fall of Ben Cooper Costumes: From Halloween Icon to Collectible Costume

The Rise and Fall of Ben Cooper Costumes: From Halloween Icon to Collectible Costume

Posted by House Of Hauntz on Feb 7th 2024

Once upon a time, Ben Cooper, Inc. was a legendary American corporation that was synonymous with Halloween. Founded in 1937, the privately held company was one of the largest Halloween costume manufacturers in the U.S. during its heyday from the 1950s to the mid-1980s. Its iconic plastic masks and vinyl smocks became a staple of Halloween celebrations across America, earning the company the title of "Halston of Halloween" and "High Priest of Halloween." With a rich history of manufacturing quality costumes that captured the essence of Halloween, Ben Cooper, Inc. is a name that still holds a special place in the hearts of many.

However, the company's success was short-lived as it faced several challenges in the following decades. Competition from other Halloween costume manufacturers, such as Rubie's Costume Company, increased, and the rise of discount stores such as Walmart and Target began to take a significant share of the Halloween costume market.

Additionally, changes in consumer preferences also played a role in the company's decline. Halloween costumes became more elaborate and sophisticated, and Ben Cooper struggled to keep up with the changing times. By the 1990s, the company was in financial trouble and was eventually sold.

Ben Cooper, Inc. was once a thriving Halloween costume manufacturing company that dominated the industry from the 1950s through the mid-1980s. Its iconic plastic masks and vinyl smocks were an integral part of Halloween during that time, earning the company recognition as the "Halston of Halloween" and the "High Priest" of Halloween.

However, with the advent of new technologies and materials, the Halloween costume industry evolved and Ben Cooper, Inc. struggled to keep pace. In 1992, the company was bought out by Rubies Costumes, one of its competitors.

But despite its fall from grace, Ben Cooper costumes have become highly sought after by collectors and nostalgic fans. The unique design, quality, and history of these costumes make them valuable collectibles, selling for high prices at auctions and online marketplaces.

In conclusion, the legacy of Ben Cooper, Inc. lives on, reminding us of a simpler time in the Halloween costume industry and serving as a testament to the impact it had during its heyday. Today, its costumes are a nostalgic reminder of the past and a valuable addition to any collection.