Russian influx pushes up prices for ‘artificial pine trees’ ahead of Christmas

Following the measures during the coronavirus epidemic, preparations for New Year’s Eve, in which there will be no restrictions on entertainment, began to be held in hotels, restaurants or homes.

In Antalya, where the number of foreigners increased after the Ukrainian-Russian war, a shopping spree has taken over to celebrate the New Year at home. Artificial pine was the first choice for home decoration.

New Year’s Eve preparations at home

Those who want to celebrate the New Year at home showed great interest in souvenir shops and online shopping sites. Charlotte Öztürk, who sells souvenirs, emphasized that after the coronavirus, people plan to celebrate the New Year at home with a crowd and preparations for it have started.

Noting that hotel and restaurant businesses also buy decoration items, Öztürk said that foreigners especially show great interest in decoration souvenir shops.

COST OF CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATION

Noting that sales to foreigners have increased, Öztürk provided the following information on home furnishing prices:

“The 150-centimeter-long artificial pine tree, which is preferred by those who buy decorations, finds buyers for 550 lira. Artificial pine trees 180 centimeters long are sold for 900 lira, trees 210 centimeters long are sold for 1,500 lira, and 3-meter long trees are sold for 6,000 lira. While 12-piece bells, which are usually used in Christmas tree decoration, cost 75 lira, 4-piece angels cost 90 lira, 4-piece ornamental boots cost 75 lira, 6-ball balls cost 60 , the 3-piece small Santa models are 15 lira, the 12-piece bows are 60 lira, the LED tree light sells for 100 lira, while the top is 60 lira.”

PRICES INCREASED TWICE

Reminding that the price of artificial pine decoration materials has doubled this year compared to last year, Öztürk said, “The cost of an artificial Christmas tree to prepare at home ranges from 1,200 lira to 13,000 lira when purchased. add decorations. For decoration, Santa Claus models, colored balls, multi-row lights, stars, colored spheres, fir branches, garlands are the preferred materials. After the pandemic, everyone wants to enter the new year happy. Those who will welcome the new year at home are preparing according to their budget and tastes. Prices have doubled compared to last year,” he said. (DHA)