The devastating impacts of Coronavirus disease, also known as COVID-19, have changed the world as we know it. It has not only taken millions of human lives but businesses and jobs, too. Case in point: the once-thriving local cut flower industry of California and the global floral trade.
The devastating impacts of Coronavirus disease, also known as COVID-19, have changed the world as we know it. It has not only taken millions of human lives but businesses and jobs, too. Case in point: the once-thriving local cut flower industry of California and the global floral trade.
A Ripple Effect
The majority of states in the country implemented local lockdowns to flatten the curve and contain the infection. Aside from requiring civilians to stay at home, non-essential businesses were ordered to close up shop temporarily. Unfortunately, this includes flower delivery services and florists in Los Angeles.
This has created a ripple effect that has vastly affected the state’s local flower farmers. The state’s 225 flower and foliage farms’ revenue had decreased by 85 percent since mid-March. LA-based florists that create magnificent fresh flower arrangements using locally sourced cut flowers are one of their biggest clientele.
The regular bulk orders from supermarket chains got cancelled. As customers prioritize essentials, such as food and medicine, flower bouquets will likely perish. Weddings have been called off. The whole tourism industry has become impossible because of social distancing protocols as well.
The Coronavirus pandemic has caused significant financial losses. Unfortunately, there are businesses that won’t be able to come back when everything blows over. This includes Ocean View Flowers based out in Lompoc. Santa Barbara Farms, its parent company, has recently announced that it will be shutting down its flower operations permanently.
Turkey and Costa Rica, the largest exporters of flowers, are also suffering a similar economic malady. They massively produced red roses, carnations, etc. in preparation for their most profitable times of the year—Mother’s Day. However, the chances of getting orders from the U.S. and other prospects are quite slim. As COVID-19 cases continue to rise, stricter measures are imposed.
Here’s How You Can Help
Orchid Republic is a local florist based in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles. Since the beginning, we have always worked in partnership with our local flower farmers, sourcing our orchid plants and the cut flowers that we use in all of our floral arrangements from them.
We remain hopeful that the Coronavirus situation becomes in control in the summer and also pray that the social distancing measures will be lifted by that time. For now, we encourage you to support us by purchasing our gift cards for future use.
For detailed inquiries on this matter, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. A friendly member of the Orchid Republic team will get in touch with you shortly.
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