Real Christmas Tree Prices Hold Steady Amid Inflation Pressures

UPDATE: Despite widespread inflation, real Christmas tree prices are largely remaining stable this year, according to a recent survey by The Journal. Many sellers across the country have opted to keep prices unchanged, offering some good news for households amid rising living costs.

Officials in the industry report that while some sellers are increasing prices by just €5 for select sizes, the overall supply of Christmas trees remains adequate for the season. Joe Flynn, chair of the Irish Christmas Tree Growers Association, emphasized, “I absolutely agree the prices in the garden centres have not raised significantly this year – maybe a fiver.”

However, the landscape may shift as tighter supplies loom on the horizon. Flynn indicated that the industry faces challenges with growers exiting the market annually, which could lead to increased prices in the next two to three years. “When they are much scarcer, they will go up in price,” he warned.

In a notable price shift, Lidl’s real Christmas trees, previously priced at €24.99, will now cost €29.99 unless purchased through the Lidl Plus loyalty app. This price will remain until Christmas Eve. Meanwhile, Cork Christmas Trees, a leading seller in the area, has announced a €5 price hike after maintaining steady prices for the last eight years.

Fintan Riordan of Cork Christmas Trees acknowledged the need for this increase due to persistent cost pressures. “You don’t want to scare people away from the real tree, but look, we had to do it,” Riordan stated. He added that offering services like tree drilling aims to enhance customer value despite higher prices.

Galway Christmas Trees, located near Athenry, has also maintained some prices while increasing costs for larger trees by €5. The rise in machinery hire and other operational expenses is driving this adjustment.

Conversely, many family-run businesses are keeping prices stable. Customers at Wades Christmas Tree Farm in Co Dublin are pleased to see prices remain at €60 for trees this year, the same as last year. Limerick Christmas Trees and other local farms report prices for 7-9 foot trees staying between €50-70.

Christy Kavanagh of Kavanagh’s Christmas Trees in Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow, explained, “We could do with a price increase, but with the economic situation, it’s not the right thing for our customers.” This sentiment resonates with many growers who prioritize the affordability of real trees to retain customers.

As families prepare for the holiday season, experts recommend ensuring proper care for real Christmas trees. Keeping the tree well-watered and away from heat sources is crucial for safety and longevity. A fresh cut at the base can further enhance water absorption.

With the holiday season fast approaching, potential buyers are encouraged to act quickly to secure their real Christmas trees before any further price increases. The current prices could be a fleeting opportunity amid the unpredictable economic climate.

This development highlights the resilience of the Christmas tree market, balancing cost pressures while striving to keep festive traditions alive. As the industry navigates future challenges, consumers will be watching closely to see how prices evolve in the coming years.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the holiday season unfolds.