Mother’s Day demand remained resilient, even amid economic uncertainty

Just two days after one of the floral industry’s busiest holidays, WFFSA wholesalers came together for another Virtual Wholesaler Discussion Group focused on Mother’s Day performance, event season strategy and navigating rising operational pressures.

Moderated by WFFSA Board Members John Burk (DVFlora) and Alex Shibata (Mt. Eden Floral Co.), the members-only conversation created space for wholesalers across North America to openly share experiences, compare observations and discuss the realities shaping today’s wholesale floral business.

Mother’s Day demand stayed strong, but so did the pressure
One of the biggest themes throughout the discussion was that Mother’s Day demand remained resilient across many markets, even amid continued economic uncertainty.

Participants shared that consumers are still prioritizing flowers for major occasions, with many wholesalers reporting strong movement across both traditional florist and mass market channels. At the same time, attendees noted increasing operational strain tied to labor availability, last-minute ordering patterns, supply uncertainty and logistics coordination.

Several wholesalers observed that customer buying behavior continues shifting later and later, compressing fulfillment timelines and creating additional pressure across the supply chain.

Preparation and logistics continue to be critical
Another key takeaway centered around preparation, particularly the importance of strong supplier relationships, transportation planning and inventory coordination ahead of major holidays.

Wholesalers discussed how pre-booking, dedicated trucking solutions and proactive communication with suppliers helped reduce disruptions and improve operational flow during peak demand periods.

The conversation also highlighted the growing need for flexibility as wholesalers continue adapting to changing timelines, evolving customer expectations and transportation challenges throughout the floral supply chain.

Attention turns towards event season
With Mother’s Day now behind the industry, wholesalers are already shifting focus toward weddings, graduations, proms and summer events.

Discussion participants shared ideas around maintaining momentum after the holiday surge while also preparing for the slower summer months that many markets experience. Topics included staffing approaches, operational efficiencies, sales planning and identifying ways to protect margins amid rising costs.

Attendees also exchanged insights on how regional factors, including weather patterns, local growing seasons and destination event markets, continue shaping demand in unique ways across the industry.

The value of peer-to-peer industry conversations
WFFSA’s Virtual Wholesaler Discussion Groups are designed to provide wholesale members with a trusted environment to openly discuss challenges, trends and opportunities facing the industry.

These interactive conversations continue to reinforce the value of collaboration and peer learning as wholesalers navigate an increasingly complex business environment together.