Christmas trees under threat from supply chain issues

The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. The American Christmas Tree Association, which represents artificial-tree makers, said shipping costs could quadruple compared to last year, potentially raising consumer prices by 20 to 30 per cent. Meanwhile the National Christmas Tree Association, which represents live-tree growers, told the Washington Post that tree stocks are 10 per cent lower due to this summer’s heat and drought on the US west coast. There will be real and artificial Christmas trees this season, but it might be harder to find exactly what you want, when you want it, and at the price you expected.” She said many artificial trees and ornaments are stuck at sea due to congestion in ports, with vendors still waiting for more than half of the products they have ordered at a time of year when they would usually have received about 70 per cent. Meanwhile, drought and wildfires driven by global warming have destroyed many trees in America's Pacific Northwest region, which provides about 25 per cent of the country's total supply.