IFPA's The Floral Conference - Miami 2024 concluded on a high note last week, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from across the floral sector for an event on June 18 at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon. The conference highlighted key trends, innovations, and strategic insights crucial to shaping the future of the global floral market.
"We are thrilled by the resounding success of this year's Conference," said Deborah Zoellick, IFPA Director, Floral. "The event underscored our commitment to driving innovation and collaboration within the floral industry. With such a dynamic schedule of events, attendees left equipped with invaluable tools and connections to navigate the ever-evolving industry."
Buyer sourcing meetings and State of the Consumer events
Central to the conference were the Floral Buyer Sourcing Meetings, where buyers and suppliers engaged in strategic discussions and networking opportunities aimed at fostering new partnerships and enhancing supply chain efficiencies. During the meetings, suppliers met for 10 minutes with five different buyer companies, matched according to criteria provided in pre-meeting applications.
The general session kicked off with the State of the Consumer event, as IFPA's Max Teplitski, Chief Science Officer, welcomed attendees to an interactive sales and marketing program, highlighting opportunities for engaging today's consumers. As part of the morning session, attendees were exposed to IFPA research that uncovered opportunities to increase floral sales, from finding new customers to leveraging sustainability and wellness movements to using digital channels and resources differently.
Empowering through Workshops
Another cornerstone of the conference was the set of workshops, curated to address challenges and opportunities within the floral industry. Attendees worked with a facilitator and other passionate professionals on topics tailored to them and brainstormed how to reach and leverage untapped consumer groups to ensure increased sales and a floral industry that continues to thrive.
Looking ahead to 2025
As the conference drew to a close, attendees reflected on the new tools, ideas, connections, and plans they made, during a networking reception.
IFPA has big plans for the 2025 event, promising exciting changes designed to capitalize on the success of this year's floral events and elevate the industry even higher.
"As we look forward to the 2025 conference, we are excited to unveil new formats and initiatives that will further elevate attendee experience and foster continued growth and innovation in our vibrant industry," said Zoellick.
For more information:
Ashley Sempowski
International Fresh Produce Association
[email protected]
www.freshproduce.com/