Why does Poland lead Germany goose imports?

Poland has scale, close proximity, and established poultry processing, which lowers transport time and keeps cold-chain costs manageable. For Baden-Württemberg, short routes support freshness during the tight Christmas window. These logistical and operational advantages help Polish suppliers deliver consistent volumes at competitive terms for German buyers.

How does this affect holiday prices and menus?

Concentrated December demand lifts throughput but can add late-order fees and handling costs. Confirmed pre-orders and flexible portion formats help control final plate costs. Retail buyers can lean on mixed fresh and frozen ranges to smooth availability, while restaurants can use pre-order deposits to lock demand and reduce waste.

What can retailers do to protect margins this week?

Tighten delivery schedules, align case sizes with store sales rates, and monitor sell-through hourly on 23–24 December. Use substitutions when exact cuts run short. Plan markdowns early for post-Christmas days and steer customers to frozen options if fresh volumes tighten. Clear signage and inventory alerts reduce shrink.

Are there signs of shortages this Christmas?

Available data indicate steady supply, with southwest Germany importing about 750 tons in 2024, up 4.1%. Nearly two-thirds from Poland and a third from Hungary provide diversification. While last-minute spikes can pinch certain cuts, broad shortages are not evident. Early orders and flexible formats help bridge any gaps.

Global Market Insights

December 24: Poland Leads Germany’s Goose Imports as Holiday Demand Peaks

ByHuzaifa Zahoor December 25, 2025December 25, 2025

Germany goose imports are peaking as Christmas week pushes demand across supermarkets and restaurants. Official data show southwest Germany brought in about 750 tons of goose meat in 2024, a 4.1% year-over-year increase. Nearly two-thirds came from Poland, with roughly a third from Hungary. This seasonal concentration shapes pricing, menu planning, and margins for grocers, hospitality operators, and distributors. We explain why sourcing patterns matter now, how buyers can manage costs, and which signals to monitor as year-end purchasing and festive menus reach their height.