Marketplace Morning Report The life of a Christmas tree seller
Dec 17, 2025
Nancy Marshall-Genzer, a Marketplace reporter and consumer correspondent, analyzes unexpectedly flat retail sales this October, indicating shifts in consumer spending. June Hagen, a seasonal worker at Uptown Christmas Trees, shares her fascinating experience of selling trees overnight in West Harlem. She describes the unique atmosphere, her long shifts, and the camaraderie among night workers. With a mix of humor and hustle, June offers a glimpse into the late-night operations and the challenges they face while keeping the tree lot thriving during the holiday season.
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Holiday Spending Looked Resilient But Uneven
- October retail sales were virtually unchanged month-to-month despite shoppers worrying about inflation and job security.
- Higher-income households drove bigger spending gains while lower-income spending lagged, showing a K-shaped recovery.
What Shoppers Actually Bought
- Top sellers included furniture, home furnishings, sports, books, clothing, electronics and appliances.
- These categories reflect typical holiday gift patterns even amid economic worries.
Where Spending Pullback Shows Up
- Auto sales saw a sharp pullback, possibly tied to the expiration of the EV tax credit.
- Spending at bars and restaurants also declined, suggesting cutbacks in discretionary out-of-home consumption.