Anna Hartz
Gingerbread in Summer? Here’s Why It’s Already on Shelves
Even though it’s still summer, Christmas is already baking. Particularly in Germany.
While people are heading to the beach or enjoying warm weather, factories are working around the clock making gingerbread, cinnamon stars, and stollen.
The reason? Holiday treats take time to make, and there’s already demand—even if it surprises shoppers every year.
Production Peak in June-August
At Lebkuchen Schmidt in Nuremberg, the ovens are running almost nonstop. They bake six days a week, day and night, writes Tag24.
The same goes for Lambertz Group in Aachen. Their production peaks between June and August. That might sound early, but it’s become normal over the years.
Germany has about 75 companies that produce these kinds of baked goods. In 2024, they made over 81,000 tons of gingerbread, honey cake, and similar treats.
Around a quarter of those were sent abroad. Eastern Europe is one of the bigger export markets because people there eat gingerbread year-round.
Still, most sales happen in Germany and nearby countries. Most buyers pick up their sweets during November and December.
But why do they show up in stores in August?
People Will Buy It
According to the German Food Trade Association, it’s because people are buying them.
After the summer holidays end, people start thinking about the colder months. Supermarkets notice this and stock up early.
In fact, many stores see just as many gingerbread sales in September and October as they do later in the season.
Weather plays a big part, too. If it gets rainy and gray, people tend to reach for Christmas cookies earlier.
That’s what consumer researcher Carsten Leo Demming says. A chilly breeze or cloudy skies can push people toward cozy, familiar snacks.
When it comes to flavors, German shoppers usually prefer the classics. Traditional recipes still rule. Organic and vegan options are gaining popularity, but not everything makes the cut.
Dirk Kuen from Lebkuchen Schmidt says some ideas just don’t fit. Flavors like chili or Dubai chocolate sound exciting, but they won’t be making it into Nuremberg gingerbread any time soon.
