Mulled wine, bratwurst and the like will most likely delight Christmas market visitors Hesse won’t be much more expensive this year than last year. “From what I have heard so far, no significant price increases are expected at Christmas markets this year,” said Hesse State Market Show and Trade Association managing director Roger Simak.
According to him, there is no concrete reason regarding the general level of inflation and certain costs. “Energy and employee costs are already at high levels compared to previous years,” he explained. “The only advantage of rising price levels is that you don’t have to fear further increases so quickly.”
Coins can be expensive
In addition, in market trading, small price spikes, which in calculations are only worth a few cents, are not immediate. In most cases, the selling price will only be adjusted from the estimated need by 50 cents. “In a business that requires a lot of money, changing coins is definitely a problem.” Coins in rolls are now a service provided by banks, allowing for reimbursement. “In other words: money now requires money itself.”
“Of course there may and will be individual cases where costs increase above the average, but we then review them very carefully,” said Simak.
Price increases are possible next year
He believes price increases will likely occur again next year. “In 2026 there may be an increase in prices due to plans to adjust the minimum wage by more than one euro per hour,” said Simak.
Christmas markets are very intensive in terms of working hours and staff. The increase from 12.41 euros per hour to 12.82 euros per hour from 2024 to 2025 is quite moderate. “Therefore, they will not be reflected in prices later this year.” The planned increase to 13.90 euros in 2026 may have a different impact.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:251114-930-291045/1
