Foreign exchange rates will help British Christmas tree growers thrive this festive season.
Roger Hay, secretary of the British Christmas Tree Growers Association, said this year could be a bumper one for home-grown trees as the pound’s performance against other currencies makes imports more expensive.
“It’s likely British growers will make more money this year than they have in previous seasons,” said Mr Hay.
“The problem with imports is exchange rates can make them more expensive. British growers can offer a cost-effective solution.”
Recent reports in the press have suggested the UK market for Christmas trees could be softened by the credit crunch, as families move to cut costs and buy cheaper, possibly fake alternatives.
However, Mr Hay said it was too early in the season to comment on those suggestions.
“The trees are being sold to retailers but they’re yet to start selling properly to customers,” said Mr Hay.
“I think things will be good. Growers are doing well in terms of their sales,” he said.
