Floral Tariffs and What They Mean for Florists
- August 21, 2025
- 4 minutes read
Exclusive interview: BloomNation x Florabundance
The floral industry is no stranger to shifting costs, but recent tariff changes and unpredictable supply chains are presenting new challenges for florists, wholesalers, and clients alike. In a recent conversation with Florabundance CEO, Joost Bongaerts, who is leading the company as it celebrates 30 years in the business, he shared insights into both the risks and opportunities that lie ahead.
The Impact of Tariffs on Flowers
Earlier this year, new tariffs on imported flowers, particularly from South America, jolted the industry. Initial rates reached as high as 30% before settling closer to 10%. Many growers have absorbed part of this burden, cushioning the immediate impact on wholesalers and florists. Still, uncertainty looms, with further tariff decisions expected in the coming months.
If tariffs stay around 10%, it’s manageable,” shared Florabundance. “But if they spike back to 30%, it will require real creativity from florists to balance budgets without compromising on artistry.
Creativity as a Business Strategy
The conversation underscored a core truth: creativity is not just artistic, it’s a financial strategy. Florists facing higher costs can adapt in several ways:
- Design with intention: Fewer stems can still deliver impact if arranged thoughtfully. Like restaurants adjusting portion sizes, florists can achieve beauty with less while protecting margins.
- Flexibility with color schemes: While specific flowers may fluctuate wildly in price (think tulips in August), color palettes offer flexibility. Clients can often be guided toward substitutions that meet the aesthetic without breaking the budget.
- Domestic sourcing: From March through October, U.S. growers supply abundant products, helping reduce exposure to import tariffs.
Pricing, Transparency, and Client Education
One of the strongest takeaways was the need for florists to do their “business homework.” Just as wholesalers review prices weekly, florists should:
- Regularly adjust pricing to reflect seasonal costs.
- Educate clients early, especially for weddings and events, by setting expectations on availability and budget flexibility.
- Use tools like historical price lists to anticipate seasonal fluctuations and negotiate contracts with clauses like “subject to change.”
Florists should never compromise on quality,” Florabundance advised. “Your artistry is what clients pay for. Do the math, communicate clearly, and guide clients with alternatives if needed.
Preparing for Fall and Winter
As October approaches, traditionally the second busiest month for weddings, the advice is clear: plan ahead. Florists should place orders early, especially for must-have flowers, while also preparing backup options in case of shortages or spikes.
Flexibility is key,” noted Florabundance. “Have a Plan B ready. Clients appreciate your expertise when you guide them through options.
Building Trust with Wholesalers
Trust emerged as another recurring theme. Florists benefit when they rely on wholesalers not just for product, but for partnership. Florabundance, known for sourcing “cool, unique flowers,” emphasizes collaboration:
Trust your wholesaler and your salesperson, they’re working for you. Share your wish lists in advance, and there’s a good chance we can find exactly what you need.
A Positive Outlook
Despite the challenges of tariffs, inflation, supply chain uncertainties; the message remains optimistic. The floral industry has weathered storms before, from the pandemic to global shipping disruptions. With careful planning, flexibility, and creativity, florists can continue to deliver beauty and joy to their clients.
As Florabundance put it:
Buy quality flowers. Don’t compromise on quality because then people can go elsewhere to buy it. Stick to your game plan, artistry, but do your homework.
Watch the full interview here:
About Florabundance:
Florabudance is a proud partner of BloomNation. Founded in 1994 and based in Carpinteria, California, Florabundance is a premier wholesale floral provider offering one of the largest selections of fresh-cut flowers, garden roses, and floral supplies sourced from top growers worldwide. Florabundance is committed to exceptional quality, personalized service, and supporting floral designers and florists in creating unforgettable designs for weddings, events, and everyday celebrations.
