The Union of Belgian Florists (URFB) says the quality of flowers for Valentine’s Day is exceptionally good this year. Marijke Walbers of the Belgian flower growers’ union explained on Tuesday, “Owing to mild temperatures in December and January, flower growers had to heat their glasshouses less intensively than usual. The bleaker weather during this period equally caused slower growth. Sunny days last week have produced amazing flowers.”
On the eve of Valentine’s Day, the sector is optimistic. Marijke Walbers indicated, “The prices of cut flowers in online auctions and wholesale prices are almost identical to last year.” However, she has no concrete figures available. Such figures depend upon various factors such as the flower species, the stem length, the given flower thickness and sometimes its colour.
Ms Walbers made the point that sales volumes in the shops are similar to 2017. “It is a sign of increased consumer confidence. This year, the day for celebrating love falls during the carnival holiday”, a week with a fair number of people on holiday, which has also helped the flower industry.
The Brussels Times