American Christmas Tree Association Recommends U.S. Consumers Find Their Christmas Tree Early This Season
American Christmas Tree Association Recommends U.S. Consumers Find Their Christmas Tree Early this Season
Christmas tree supply this year affected by extreme weather and supply chain issues
September 15, 2021 – To support consumers in their preparation for the Christmas season, the American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA), has released its annual industry overview on the Christmas tree market and supply.
“Every year, we pay close attention to factors impacting the Christmas tree industry so that we can help guide consumers in choosing the right Christmas tree. In 2021, we’re seeing a variety of trends influencing artificial and live Christmas tree supply across the country, and are encouraging consumers to find their tree early this year to avoid shortage impacts,” said ACTA Executive Director Jami Warner.
In 2020, 94 million U.S. households celebrated Christmas by displaying a Christmas tree in their home. Of those trees, 85% were artificial, and 15% were live. Despite expectations of similar consumer demand in 2021, the Christmas tree industry could experience a shortage of both artificial and live trees.
Unprecedented weather events in the Pacific Northwest, including fires, drought, and heat waves, have impacted live Christmas tree crop yields, with some Oregon farmers reporting losing up to 90% of their crop this summer.
The artificial Christmas tree supply is also facing challenges this year. The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic recovery has overwhelmed the U.S. supply chain with increased demand for consumer goods, raw materials, and transportation. Retailers predict that this overload could quadruple shipping costs compared to 2020. This supply chain overload means that there will be fewer artificial trees available for consumer purchase this season, and those that are available will come with a higher price tag.
“We hope that every person who wants a Christmas tree will find their perfect tree this year,” said Warner. “If I can give one piece of advice to consumers right now, it is to find and buy your Christmas tree early. “
For continued updates on the Christmas tree supply and industry news, visit ChristmasTreeAssociation.org or follow ACTA on Facebook or Twitter.
About American Christmas Tree Association
The American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) is a non-profit organization that serves as a resource for media and consumers seeking information and education on the Christmas tree industry.