by Williee Armellini
The latest edition of the floral event called Floriexpo is now in the history books.
I have attended this show since it inception, then called the “International Floral Expo”, and it has been an up and down ride. I was starting to think that this show might not survive as the attendance was not always satisfactory.
However, it appears that they have managed to get more exhibitors and more important buyers into the building.
This is the smaller of the two Supermarket shows, the larger being the IFPA (Formerly PMA) show to be held in Atlanta this year.
After talking with many of the vendors this show offers exhibitors the opportunity to potentially have more time with buyers and less competition from the huge bouquet companies that tend to dominate the industry.
With that said, Sunshine Bouquet and The Elite Flower Co were exhibiting which makes me think that there were lots of incentives offered for buyers and sellers.
The first day was all educational and then on the second day the show floor opens. After talking to exhibitors, it appears that serious buyers were in the building and those that I spoke with were pleased.
The fun part of this show is their Iron Designer competition which pits 6 to 8 designers against each other in a themed event. This time it was floral masks. Derek Woodruff was the winner.
Thursday evening offered a boat cruise down the intercostal waterway. The best way to see how all the rich folks in Fort Lauderdale live. I missed it this year, but I am sure it was fun for anyone who has not seen the opulence of the many estates and yachts.
The show organizers, floriexpo, are still considering moving the venue to another city out of Fort Lauderdale but I think they should stay put.
I believe part of the success of this show is its proximity to Miami, allowing exhibitors easy access to the venue with minimum expense.
The subject that continued to be discussed was the fate of Sun Valley Floral. As of this writing, I am not sure what the current status is for them but we wish them the best as they are one of the most important US growers and very nice people.
The next edition Floriexpo is set to take place June 4-6th right back in Fort Lauderdale, and I will likely be there to tell you all about it. Please watch my video review.
Thanks to all who have purchased my book, Flowers Come From Where?
I welcome all reviews good or bad. Please send me your thoughts if you have read it.
About the Author:
Williee Armellini, AAF grew up in the Family floral logistics business and through that association became deeply involved the flower business. First working for the family business and then branching out on my own. That journey has taken me to understand many parts of the business and to travel the world. I have ended up being called a photojournalist and even an influencer! I like what I do, and I hope you do as well.
Being able to combine my love of Music, words and cameras is a wonderful gift that I love to share.
