Christmas tree prices rising. News. In Germany, the upcoming holiday season will bring challenges not just from winter weather but also from buying Christmas trees, which are getting more expensive and harder to find. The rising prices and limited supply are due to natural factors and changes in how manufacturers operate. This year, many people in German cities should expect to pay more for a Christmas tree. Here’s a look at the costs for this holiday season.
Christmas Tree Prices Rise in Germany
The association of Christmas tree growers in Lower Saxony, Hamburg, and Bremen has announced that prices for Christmas trees, particularly the Nordmann fir—which is the most popular type in Germany—will rise this year. On average, these trees will cost between 50 and 55 euros. Bernd Oelkers, the association’s president and a longtime Christmas tree grower in Lower Saxony, explains that the price increases stem from various factors beyond the producers’ direct control.
One key reason for the higher prices is the impact of dry weather that affected Europe a few years ago. The exceptionally dry months of 2017 and 2018 harmed young trees, negatively influencing their growth and quality. As a result, the trees that were supposed to be ready for sale this season had a tough growth period, leading to many producers losing a portion of their young crops.
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High production cost
The price increase is also affected by rising production costs. Oelkers highlights that these challenges largely stem from higher prices for materials, fuel, and labour, all essential for growing and transporting Christmas trees. Additionally, intermediaries contribute to the price hikes by adding their own margins. This results in lower profitability for producers, who must compete with the prices set by large retail chains.
While various species of Christmas trees are available, Germans tend to favor the Nordmann fir, known for being the most beautiful and durable option. Its attractive appearance and dense needles make it the top choice for Christmas trees.
When and Where to Buy a Christmas Tree?
Oelkers assures us that despite the challenges, there will be no shortage of Christmas trees this season, though finding the perfect one may require acting early. He recommends purchasing a Christmas tree between the second and third week of Advent when the selection is still ample. Most trees available in Germany come from Lower Saxony, where the climate supports their growth and reduces the need for imports. According to ndr.de, only 25% of the trees are sold directly from farms; the rest reach consumers through intermediaries, which further impacts their prices.