- Christmas tree prices in the Southwest continue to maintain their equilibrium.
Expected Consistency in Christmas Tree Prices
The prices for prevalent Nordmann fir Christmas trees are projected to stay the same. Consumers will need to shell out between 21 and 29 euros per running meter, similar to last year. The Baden-Württemberg Christmas Tree Association confirmed this when asked. Therefore, a 2-meter tall Christmas tree in the southwest will cost between 42 and 58 euros.
However, this price range is merely a suggestion from the association. Every business has the autonomy to set its own price per running meter. As per association chair, Sebastian Fertig, businesses that produce their trees exclusively tend to fall on the cheaper end of the scale. Those that buy their trees, on the other hand, tend to cost more. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the recommended price range was 18 to 23 euros.
Quality Boosted by Rainy Weather
The Nordmann fir is hands-down the most favored, thanks to its soft and firmly attached needles. Fertig notes that the quality of the trees this year is exceptional: "The Nordmann fir thrives in moist environments. The weather conditions were ideal for growth." Even frost didn't impact any trees, allowing for stable prices despite increased costs. "In dry years, we need to water the trees, which adds additional costs."
However, association chair Fertig predicts prices to increase in the long term: "Christmas trees will become a scarcity." Furthermore, labor, material, and fertilizer costs are escalating, making Christmas trees more expensive. "Many businesses have had to jack up their prices in recent years. But in our line of work, we also have numerous loyal customers, and we wish to keep them pleased. So we might hold back on the last euro increase."
Local Supply Fuels Half of Southwest Sales
Each year, approximately 2.5 million Christmas trees are sold in Baden-Württemberg, according to the Agriculture Ministry. Approximately half of these are sourced locally, from an area of around 2,500 hectares. Most of the remaining trees come from the rest of Germany, with a meager fraction imported.
Consumers can expect to pay between 21 and 29 euros per running meter for a Nordmann fir Christmas tree, as the prices are projected to stay the same this year. Businesses that produce their trees exclusively tend to offer them at a cheaper price, while those that buy their trees typically cost more.
