Valentine’s Day is perhaps the biggest day in the calendar for the global flower industry with over $20 billion in exports annually. Throughout the years, roses remain a popular staple of the Valentine’s Day market.
Red roses are by tradition the most sought-after flower, but demand for others including tulips, Peruvian lilies, chrysanthemums and mini carnations is also high.
Behind every Valentine’s Day rose, there is an extensive network of people from all over the world – from the farmer, shipper, auctioneer, and retailer all cooperating to transport roses from field to hand in a matter of days.
Do all plants need to be refrigerated?
Cut flowers, bulbs and potted plants need temperature-controlled storage and transportation. As part of cold-chain logistics, these facilities minimise damage to the flowers/plants.
Most flowers sold in the USA aren’t grown locally but rather imported from Colombia or Ecuador. The logistics and planning that go into preparing for Valentine’s Day are a major part of the holiday for those who work in logistics. Since flowers must be grown and ordered in advance, it requires months of planning and organising. Colombia has been ranked the world’s second-largest exporter, according to the government agency ProColombia. This Country typically ships more than 4 billion roses to the United States annually, and a vast quantity of these are transported to supply the Valentine’s Day flower industry.
How do I plan logistics for Valentine’s Day?
The biggest obstacle for the flower industry is forecasting deliveries and ensuring that this perishable commodity reaches the North American market on time and intact. Identifying the ideal temperature for specific plants helps to prevent moisture loss, minimise the penetration of pathogens, reduce wilting and avoid dehydration. Packaging for cut flowers or plants is just as important as the temperature and humidity levels around.
The latest developments in improved air transportation and infrastructure networks in South America have allowed greater market access and made it easier to ensure a successful cold chain supply of cut flowers during peak demand – low domestic supply periods such as Valentine’s Day.
Temperature-controlled logistics are in place to help businesses with cold-chain logistics to maintain the condition of their products. If you would like to discuss the requirements to transport flowers or plants under a temperature-controlled regime or have any other enquiries, contact our team today at info@noatumlogistics.com