Inflation in food and drinks persists and could not fail to affect even Christmas Shopping. According to the latest figures from the German Statistical Office, food prices have increased by 30% compared to pre-pandemic times. And in fact – especially in food – inflationary pressures persist, despite the theoretical retreat of inflation close to the 2% range.

The Christmas Market exhibitors themselves admit that “there is a problem”. As Michael Roden, president of the exhibitors in Berlin, says, “the cost of energy, raw materials, administrative costs are increasing, everything is more expensive. When you import goods from abroad, you still pay more. And so the prices go up, at all levels. This has to stop somewhere, otherwise no one will be able to organize such a beautiful Christmas market anymore.”

“It can’t be, you’re going to buy something…”

Experts cite many and varied reasons for rising prices: higher demand for food worldwide due to population growth, rising production costs, energy crisis, drought and other effects of climate change, geopolitical tensions, speculative phenomena. Of course, some “waves of increase” come and (hopefully) pass, as happened in 2022 with grains or as has been happening in recent months with coffee.

What does all this mean for Christmas Shopping? “The prices are very high,” says Francesco from Sicily, who is visiting Berlin for the umpteenth time at Christmas. “I reckon it’s 15-20% higher than last year, it’s hard to buy anything. A hot chocolate costs seven euros. It’s a lot of money, we’re talking about a simple chocolate. So it’s difficult, especially when you have a family…”

Regine, a middle-aged Berliner, is troubled by the high prices, but finally gives in to the temptation of consumption. “Everything is more expensive than last year, it shows when you walk around,” he says. “On the other hand, the atmosphere at the Christmas Market is so nice that you enjoy your shopping. After all, it can’t be, you’ll get a couple of things…”.

“Salty” Glühwein

The famous “Glühwein” (mulled wine, vin chaud) remains in demand at the Christmas markets. It is a semi-sweet mulled wine with spices, which not only “lightens the heart”, but also warms as it should and as it is necessary in temperatures around zero degrees. This year, the most expensive Glühwein is recorded in Munich, where a mug hopefully reaches seven euros. Five euros is the average price in Hamburg, Berlin or Cologne. Lower prices await visitors to smaller, country towns in Germany.

For those seeking the maximum possible benefit for the minimum possible cost, the Christmas Market on the River Spree in the heart of the German capital offers an “all you can eat (and drink)”. With a general admission of 29.90 euros during the week and 45.90 euros on weekends, the visitor can order Christmas specialties and Glühwein until … final fall. 90% of available tickets for Christmas are already pre-sold.

(Reuters, N-TV)