The Erzgebirge arts and crafts sector will be presenting its new products for the next Christmas season at the "Christmasworld" trade fair in Frankfurt am Main. According to the Association of Erzgebirge Craftsmen and Toy Manufacturers, around 20 manufacturing companies will be exhibiting at the trade fair. It begins on Friday (February 6). In addition to new products, the main aim is to exchange ideas with dealers.
"In the current politically charged period dominated by customs announcements, the industry is looking forward to exchanging ideas with American trade customers," explains Frederic Günther, Managing Director of the association. Initial feedback on the 2025 Christmas business has been positive, but there are regional differences within the USA. The wooden art from the Erzgebirge is not only offered in specialist stores there, but also at special German Christmas markets. One example is the Christmas market in Carmel in the state of Indiana.
US tariffs also affect arts and crafts
According to the information, the North American market - including Canada - accounts for 10 to 15 percent of total sales for Erzgebirge arts and crafts. Since the end of August, however, tariffs of 15 percent have also applied to such products in the USA.
All in all, the industry reported that sales in the past Christmas season were roughly on a par with the previous year. The association represents around 50 manufacturers of wooden art from the Ore Mountains. This also includes the Dregeno Seiffen cooperative, which brings together around 130 craft businesses.
Christmasworld sees itself as the leading international trade fair for seasonal decorations and festive decorations. Last year, it counted more than 660 exhibitors and almost 34,600 visitors, according to its own figures.
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