The First Year: Patience, Humility, and People

When I asked Michael for the single most important piece of advice for a new buyer, his answer was immediate and clear: be patient. “It will take a year to learn the industry,” he advised. The key is to be a sponge. “Keep your eyes and ears open; study the sales history of the department, visit your stores, talk with teammates, other company leaders and department heads, supply partners, and most importantly your customer.”

This learning curve requires a healthy dose of humility, which can be a challenge for newcomers. One of the most common mistakes, Michael shared, is that “buyers have a tendency to project their own views onto the customer.” He stressed that success means checking that bias at the door. “Success means leaving your ego at home… Be able to admit you don’t know what you don’t know.” The antidote is curiosity and connection. By asking questions, knowing your numbers, and focusing on people, a new buyer can build a solid foundation. At the end of the day, the message was simple: “Being successful is building good relationships.”

The Modern Buyer: Data, AI, and the Human Touch

The role of a floral buyer has transformed over the past decade. It’s no longer an isolated job but one that requires deep, collaborative planning “along the supply chain from farm level to end consumer.” According to Michael, the skills essential for success today are rooted in technology and flexibility. “The use of technology and the ability to change and adapt quickly is a must to drive the business.”

Looking to the future, the integration of Artificial Intelligence is set to revolutionize the workspace. “Right before my retirement AI was being introduced into the corporate structure. This is the future,” Michael noted. Far from replacing the buyer, AI will empower them by handling complex data analysis and freeing up “valuable time for buyers to better connect to the customer.” This synergy is critical. While data analytics, AI leverage, and data-driven decision making are now essential tools, we must never forget the core of the business. As Michael beautifully put it, “Floral is still an emotional based purchase supported with the use of technology to connect to the customer.”

Nurturing the Roots: Forging Strong Partnerships

So, how does a buyer build strong, long-term relationships that are so critical for success? The strategy starts with a mindset. “Viewing business challenges as win/win situations will build strong relationships inside and outside your company,” Michael explained.

This collaborative spirit must extend everywhere—from internal teams to external growers and vendors. Staying connected to the customer is the ultimate goal, and that requires a united front. To achieve this, Michael recommends proactive networking. “Attend trade shows, build a network of industry peers, and be familiar with your competitors.” More than just strategy, however, is the simple power of human connection. “Being friendly and nice is contagious,” he shared. His final piece of advice was a call to action: “Be intentional about everything you do and participate in the industry at all levels.”

For anyone entering the world of supermarket floral buying, Michael Schrader’s wisdom serves as a powerful roadmap. The journey requires patience, a commitment to lifelong learning, an embrace of new tools, and, above all, a genuine focus on building lasting relationships.