Traditional Sales in Christmas Pines Decline: Trade is no Longer What it Used to be.
Selling pine trees and greenery for Christmas is a familiar December scene in Funchal, especially near the Madeira Electricity Company (EEM). Vendors once again set up stalls with pine trees and greenery of many sizes. Yet several sellers say the trade is no longer what it used to be. On December 20, 2025, many described the start of the season as slow, with fewer buyers than in previous years. The scene still draws attention, but the volume of sales has fallen.
Vendors Say Demand Is Lower As More Buyers Choose Official Trees
Several sellers point to a clear reason for the weaker season. More people now buy official pine trees, reducing demand for traditional greenery. One vendor summed up the mood simply:
It is weak, business this year is weak
The vendor added that customers no longer look for greenery as much as before, even though pine trees and branches are still available every day.
Prices Rise Slightly, With Large Pine Trees Reaching €100 to €150
Prices have gone up, but only by a small amount. Vendors say licenses now cost more, while products increased by about 10 to 20 cents per item. Larger pine trees remain the most expensive, with prices ranging from €100 to €150, depending on size.
Even so, sellers say higher prices do not make up for fewer sales. As one explained, the work only pays off if everything is sold, after spending days and nights at the stall.
Sales Continue Until Midday December 24 as Some Keep the Custom Alive
Despite the weaker trade, tradition still matters to many buyers. Some residents say they come every year, as their families did in the past, to buy greenery for home arrangements.
One shopper said the practice goes back to her grandparents and is part of being Madeiran. The sale of pine trees and greenery will continue in the Almirante Reis area until midday on December 24, keeping the custom alive, even as the market changes.
Source: RTP Madeira
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