Supply Chain Challenges in the Floral Industry

By Farmhouse Floral by Estabrook's

Supply chain challenges, labor shortages and poor growing conditions have led to a global shortage of fresh flowers, especially flowers grown specifically for weddings and events.

Pandemic Ramifications

In 2020, when the world went into lockdown because of the pandemic, many flower farms were discarded. Since nobody knew what was going to happen crops were not planted as usual.

Now due to labor shortages, poor weather in growing areas, supply chain and inflated prices the industry is finding it harder and harder to find the supplies they need.

Ashley Dyer, the Lead Designer and Floral Coordinator for Farmhouse Floral had this to say:

"What I have come to realize over the last couple of years, is I cannot make promises about specific flowers, or a container or even about candles. So many containers are back ordered and many times last year during wedding season white roses were not available!"

"I have worked in the floral industry for over 15 years and have always been used to having everything at my finger tips. But the last two years has been a great challenge to say the least. Added time, money and stress to find the best quality and products."

Looking Ahead to 2022

2020 is still disrupting the floral industry two years later. And unfortunately it is hitting us harder than ever this year with a boom in weddings, where couples spend thousands of dollars in flowers.

This year, there is an estimated 2.5 million weddings that will take place in the United States; according to the trade group Wedding Report. They also estimate it will take until the end of 2023 for business to function as they did before the pandemic.

Dyer continues:

"Wedding season has just begun and we have already seen a drastic change in prices of flowers and delivery charges. Many changes are constantly being made to assure our clients and customers get the best quality and the best price. Eventually farms will be back on schedule and supply chains will receive more product to offer us. But it will be another difficult year."