Taxiarchis, Halkidiki — Fir producers in Taxiarchis have been working day and night in recent days as preparations peak for the Christmas tree season. Sales of Christmas trees across Greece begin on Friday, November 28, and producers are rushing to meet demand. (Source: APE-MPE)
Some producers are effectively camping in the forest cutting trees continuously; others work in specially arranged areas where they tie and sort trees; and many load trees onto trucks bound for major urban centers including Thessaloniki, Athens, Volos, Patras and Alexandroupoli. At the same time, community and producer phone lines are constantly receiving calls from across the country—especially from Thessaloniki and Athens—from citizens wanting to secure a tree in time. (Source: APE-MPE)
Giannis Xakis, president of the Taxiarchis community and himself a fir producer, told APE-MPE that the whole community works together “almost like a well-oiled machine” each year at this time, helping to recreate some of the village’s familiar Christmas “magic.” Despite fatigue and long hours that keep many away from their families, producers are happy because this period is the most important of the year for the community. (Quote and reporting: APE-MPE)
Exports and demand - Demand is increasing every year, including markets in Cyprus and Albania (Tirana); over 2,500 trees are exported to those countries in total. Taxiarchis has supplied Cyprus for more than 19 years, and this year marks the fourth year of sales in Albania. (Source: APE-MPE)
Prices and costs - In Thessaloniki, prices for a fir tree will range from €40 to €100; in Athens prices range from €50 to €150, since many households in the capital choose very tall trees. - Producers say transport costs remain high and they still pay significant fees to municipalities for selling locations. These charges and transport can make costs up to 50% higher for Athens shipments, and producers may pay over €5,000 for 15–20 days at their sales post. - Producers aim to keep prices reasonable despite increased living costs; Xakis emphasized that none of them become wealthy from selling trees. (Source: APE-MPE)
Supply outlook - Early signals are encouraging. Xakis estimates that, at worst, this year’s supply will match last year’s levels — slightly over 32,000 trees sold domestically and abroad. - The best year on record for the producers was 2009, when more than 48,000 trees were distributed inside and outside Greece. (Source: APE-MPE)
Reporting: APE-MPE
