As Christmas approaches, Christmas tree vendors in New York City are adjusting prices for last-minute shoppers. CBS News reports that some 9-foot trees, previously priced at $400, are now being sold for about half that amount. Similarly, 6-foot trees that were initially listed at $250 are now available for approximately $150.
Late-season discounts arrive as the industry anticipates more modest sales, with a projected 3% increase this season compared with last year’s 7% rise, reported by Evercore ISI. CBS News states that economic factors are influencing both sales and consumer spending patterns. For example, Brooklyn resident Donna Torre chose not to purchase a new tree this year, citing rising costs. Additionally, tariffs may affect sales of artificial trees.
Competition among the city’s Christmas tree vendors is strong, as shown in the Amazon Prime Video documentary The Merchants of Joy. The film presents the operational challenges of the business, including vendors taking on debt for inventory and competing for high-traffic sales locations. George Smith, owner of NYC Tree Shop, told The New York Post that factors such as weather and economic conditions can affect customer purchases.
Filmmaker Celia Aniskovich, known for Fear City: New York vs. the Mafia, documents the operations of New York’s Christmas tree vendors in her latest film. The documentary examines the annual bidding process for high-traffic public selling locations, highlighting the intensity of competition. In an interview with The New York Post, vendor "Little" Greg Walsh described the environment and noted that many seasonal workers live on site, often in office trailers, and form social connections.
