Businesses looking to boost profits this Christmas with festive trees have been forced to source them closer to home, according to the British Christmas Tree Grower's Association.
The weak pound against the Danish Krone and the Euro has made importing trees up to 25% more expensive and therefore restrictive for businesses already suffering reduced cash flows.

Even without the economic conditions traditional UK favorite, the Nordman fir imported from Denmark, has not had the best growing season and both factors are likely to reduce supply and increase price.

A spokesman for The British Christmas Tree Grower's Association, said while there was likely to be less trees imported a wet summer had meant a great growing season in the UK.

However, he also feared a cost increase because of the rising cost of fertiliser and fuel would leave people potentially facing up to 10 to 20% increases on some varieties.

He said: "In response to the increased cost of trees imported from Europe, we would like to assure customers that for the 2008 Christmas season there will be more than enough real trees available from UK sources to meet demand.



"Greater transportation costs will most likely lead to an increase in cost for British grown trees, but the range of species is wide and the varying sizes means there will be a tree suitable for every pocket.

"Due to previous shortages in Europe and the increase in value of the Euro relative to the GBP, it is unlikely many trees will be imported from outside the UK this year."

Department stores have also been stocking up on fake trees with a view to widening the appeal of plastic against natural firs.