Increases in flower prices have failed to dampen the New Year mood with people making a beeline before florists, who are making different kinds of bouquets to meet the spike in demand.
The florists are optimistic of brisk business on Jan 1. "New Year is one of the biggest flower-selling days of the year. On average, each florist sells at least 100 bouquets and huge sales continue throughout the week. Recently, the price of flowers increased significantly due to an increase in demand and transportation costs," said Nalinikanta Jena, a florist, who brought flowers worth Rs 2 lakh for the New Year.
Prices of popular flowers like roses, lilies, and carnations have seen a significant spike, with roses costing Rs 25 to Rs 30 per piece compared to Rs 15 to Rs 20 last year. Lilies are priced at Rs 200 to Rs 250 per stem, while orchids cost Rs 50 per stem, a 10% to 20% increase from last year.
"We have witnessed a 20% increase in flower prices this year due to supply chain issues, but people are still buying. We have got pre-orders for 200 bouquets. New Year is all about spreading joy, and flowers remain the top choice," said Suresh Nayak, owner of a flower shop in Saheed Nagar.
Read more at Times of India