Survey: Christmas trees could get a little more expensive

Christmas tree sellers in Saxony are expecting slight price increases. In a survey conducted by the German Press Agency, several retailers stated that they anticipate moderate price increases for the trees. However, many were not yet able to say exactly how much the trees would cost this year. The price always depends on the size and type of tree—and whether the trees are for customers to cut themselves or have already been cut, explained a spokesperson for Sachsenforest.

According to the Federal Association of Christmas Tree Producers, the reasons for the rise in Christmas tree prices include increased labor and logistics costs. In addition, the association generally expects a shortage of Christmas trees. This is attributed to the declining number of farms producing Christmas trees. 

Ulrich Haberland of the Saxon Christmas Tree GbR also explained that fewer trees had taken root in the 2018 planting season due to the extreme drought at the time—trees from that year are typically now being sold. According to Haberland, this also explains the slight price increases. He estimated that his Christmas trees could be about five euros more expensive this year.

Association: Trees Will Still Be Affordable

The Federal Association of Christmas Tree Producers, however, gave the all-clear: Despite all the challenges, producers are working to ensure a wide selection. “Natural Christmas trees will remain affordable and available to everyone,” the association assured.

Sachsenforst is also confident that prices there will not rise significantly. “For naturally grown and untreated Christmas trees, we’ll be in the range of 20 to 30 euros per tree, with spruce and pine trees generally being cheaper than fir trees,” said a spokesperson for the state-owned enterprise.