Overview
- Logistics firms moving imported blooms by air and refrigerated truck report higher costs, with Armellini Logistics adding weekly fuel surcharges as the national diesel average hit $5.66 a gallon.
- Tariffs continue to lift import prices, with Ecuadorian roses facing about 15% duties and Dutch shipments at least 10% because a March U.S.–Ecuador deal has not yet taken effect.
- Retail prices are up, as BLS data show indoor plant and flower costs rose 7.5% year over year in March, and a two‑dozen rose bunch at a Los Angeles wholesaler climbed to about $30 from $20 last year.
- Florists say they are raising delivery fees, trimming stem counts, and redesigning bouquets, while some test local sourcing and Friday discount “happy hours” to ease sticker shock.
- Shops report strong Mother’s Day demand despite higher bills, and the National Retail Federation expects about $3.2 billion in flower spending this year.