The upcoming Easter holiday is facing a potential crisis as egg dye kits are grappling with increasing costs, threatening a beloved tradition for many families. Retailers specializing in these festive sets are bracing for a potential decline in sales due to the current egg shortage, which has driven egg prices to record levels, reaching $8.58 per dozen. The egg shortage, resulting from a domestic bird flu outbreak, has claimed the lives of over 52 million egg-laying birds, leaving the national flock at a critical low of just 280 million.
Ashley Phelps, founder and CEO of Color Kitchen, a plant-based baking decoration company, expressed concerns about the impact of the egg shortage on sales of Easter items. She anticipates a decrease in sales as retailers navigate purchasing limits and inflated prices, with retail egg prices averaging around $6 per dozen or higher. The combination of high prices and limited availability may dampen the demand for egg dye kits, affecting companies’ bottom lines.
Challenges Faced by Egg Dye Kit Makers
Natural Earth Paint, a company known for manufacturing natural art supplies and craft kits for kids, typically sells between 40,000 and 50,000 egg dye kits around Easter. This year, however, the company has received significantly fewer orders, citing the egg shortage as the primary reason for the drop in demand. Leah Fanning, the founder of Natural Earth Paint, highlighted the importance of the egg dye kit as the company’s bestselling product for over a decade, emphasizing its critical role in sustaining the business.
The impact of the egg shortage extends beyond just decreased sales. Companies like Color Kitchen face the risk of being charged back for unsold products that are eventually discounted to clear out inventory, posing a potential financial setback. Despite the challenges, some companies, like Hey Buddy Hey Pal, remain optimistic about their Easter product sales, expecting a modest increase in revenue compared to the previous year.
The Resilience of Easter Traditions
Despite the rising costs and challenges faced by egg dye kit makers, the tradition of decorating Easter eggs remains deeply rooted in many families. Paas, a leading brand in the egg dye kit industry, anticipates that families will continue to engage in egg decorating, albeit potentially with fewer eggs this year. Joe Ens, CEO of Signature Brands, emphasized the enduring appeal of the tradition, noting that it remains a cost-effective and cherished family activity during the holiday season.
Art and craft stores like Michaels are already witnessing a shift in consumer preferences, with shoppers showing interest in egg-inspired products like plaster, plastic, and craft eggs. The company reported a surge in sales for products designed to mimic the traditional egg-decorating experience. Hey Buddy Hey Pal also anticipates that families may opt for alternative materials like wooden eggs as a creative and lasting alternative to real eggs.
As the Easter holiday approaches, uncertainty looms over the availability and affordability of eggs, prompting companies to navigate the evolving landscape of the egg market. While challenges persist, the resilience of Easter traditions and the enduring appeal of egg decorating offer a glimmer of hope amid the current uncertainties. The significance of these age-old customs serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of celebration and creativity that defines the holiday season.
