Fake Christmas tree? Time to get one is now

For those in the market for an artificial Christmas tree, industry experts say the time to consider picking one up is now.

Artificial trees are being impacted by the same supply-chain issues that have resulted in numerous other products imported from overseas to take longer than expected to arrive in the U.S. or to be available in far fewer quantities than usual.

Balsam Hill, a leading maker of high-end artificial Christmas trees and decor that imports its products from China as well as other countries in Asia and Europe, reports having less than half of the inventory of artificial trees it would like.

Another major player is the National Tree Company, a New Jersey wholesaler that manufactures its trees in China and makes them available for purchase largely through online retailers. CEO Chris Butler said that, as the holiday season progresses, he expects his company to have about 90% of its expected inventory on hand — a favorable percentage but one that doesn’t reflect industry-wide shortages.

No matter how many artificial trees make their way to the U.S., the expense to get them here has dramatically increased during the supply-chain crunch. And costs are being passed along to consumers. Balsam Hill raised its prices by about 22%.

Still, demand for artificial trees from consumers is expected to be high, and the time to buy is pretty much now because the supply is expected to tighten further.

For those in the market for live Christmas trees, the situation is less urgent because they are not imported.