The Interflora World Cup is coming to the UK for the very first time in 2023.
Launched in 1972, the Interflora World Cup has previously taken place in the likes of Melbourne (2004), Shanghai (2010), Berlin (2015), and Philadelphia (2019) and is a chance for elite florists from around the globe to showcase their incredible talent. The event will take place at Manchester Central from 7th - 9th September 2023.
Not only will the event be a display of skill and spectacular artistic design, but for the first time, Interflora has chosen to expand the event to create a showstopping experience for visitors, who can expect artisan stalls with food, drink, and shopping, as well as workshops and entertainment. Tickets go on sale to the public next month, with visitors expected from across the globe. For anyone who can't make it in person, the event will also be live-streamed anywhere in the world, with virtual access tickets available to buy.
As a champion of local florists, supporting 900 local florists on high streets up and down the UK and Ireland, Interflora is also offering the opportunity to get as close to the action as possible as a volunteer. This will be a rare chance to network with and gain insight from the best in the industry.
World-class florists from 25 countries will compete in six heats over three days, with a grand final on Saturday evening (9th). Competitors will be set creative tasks to complete under strict time conditions - some are known about in advance, and others are given as a surprise to test the speed of thought and improvisation. The judging process will be supported by Florint International.
As the host nation, Interflora UK has chosen the theme of 'Our Natural World' as part of its commitment to sustainable practices. Competitors will be required to demonstrate their interpretation and respect for the planet, focussing on a sustainable ethos and utilizing natural elements, ensuring the materials they use in their designs have minimum impact on the natural environment.
The UK competitor has been named Elizabeth Newcombe of The Botanical Company in Surrey. She beat off competition from 80 of the best independent florists from up and down the UK and Ireland to be crowned 'Interflora Florist of the Year' at the finals at RHS Bridgewater back in July of this year.
Interflora's director of florist services, Nick Priest, said: "The event will be a real spectacle and a chance to see floral designers at the top of their game at work. They will be creating complete works of art, and our tasks will provide the ultimate test of nerve and skill.
"It's a great opportunity to celebrate the vibrant community of talented florists and skilled artists we have here in the UK - a chance to learn and to be inspired."
2023 also marks Interflora's 100th birthday, and the event will form part of the centenary celebrations.
For more information:
Interflora World Cup
www.worldcup.interflora.co.uk
[email protected]