Egg Market Stabilizes Ahead of Easter, Minimal Price Impact for Consumers

The egg market is showing signs of stabilization ahead of the Easter holiday, alleviating previous concerns regarding prices and supply. Recent challenges, including outbreaks of avian influenza, had led to temporary shortages and significant price increases in the wholesale market. However, the Federal Association of Eggs has reported that the supply is now sufficient to meet consumer demand.

According to Hans-Peter Goldnick, the association's president, there are now enough eggs available as younger hens that were added to farms earlier this year have begun to lay. Although some variations in availability may still occur based on sorting categories--such as size and farming method--overall supply has improved.

Currently, wholesale egg prices are either stable or slightly declining. Consumers can expect no significant price increases leading up to Easter, primarily because retailers typically establish contracts with egg producers well in advance, usually in August or September. As a result, any price hikes in supermarkets or discount stores are unlikely until at least the fall.

Despite this positive outlook, consumers have already faced substantial price increases in recent months. For example, eggs saw a 41.5% rise in price compared to the average from 2020, according to data from the Federal Statistical Office.

Challenges in the egg supply chain have stemmed from the avian flu, which has necessitated the culling of hens in some areas. This situation has been exacerbated by global incidents, prompting inquiries from U.S. authorities seeking to import eggs from Europe. Additionally, the production of eggs was deliberately reduced after the Christmas season, as farmers typically replace older hens with younger ones during this period. Such seasonal adjustments are often impacted by unpredictable events, like outbreaks of poultry diseases.

Demand for eggs has surged recently, with consumption in Germany rising over 4% in 2024 to reach 20.8 billion eggs. This translates to an average of 249 eggs consumed per person--ten more than the previous year. This data includes processed eggs used in various products.

Germany has not been able to fully meet its egg demand domestically, managing to supply only 72% of its needs through local production. Consequently, imports from other countries have become necessary to fill the gap.