British tulips. Photo credit: Rona Wheeldon (Flowerona)
British Flowers
Next to the fact that there are some differences regarding the flowers that are on offer this Easter compared to last year, Levi does not notice many remarkable changes. However, there is a trend towards more British grown flowers. "Still, the majority of the flowers are imported, and mostly through the Dutch auction, but over the years we see slightly more British grown flowers on the market. The British grown tulips, for example are very popular at the moment."
Clockwise: Golden tulips, Lily plants, Daucus carota 'Dara', Easter Chicks. Photo credit: Rona Wheeldon (Flowerona)
And New Covent Garden Flower Market is stimulating this trend. For several years, they are organising the annual campaign called British Flowers Week. "The campaign unites the British cut flower industry behind the call for consumers to buy - and value - locally-grown, seasonal British flowers and foliages. It also brings retail and event florists, flower schools, growers and wholesalers together to showcase the best of British flowers, foliages and floristry," says Levi. This year, the British Flower Week will be held from June 19-25.
British Apotheose Daffodils and Narcissi. Photo credit: Rona Wheeldon (Flowerona)
New building
It has been a very busy morning, but according to Levi, this is not only due to Easter. On April 3, the New Covent Garden Market moved to another building and many visitors are curious how it looks. The new Flower Market has to offer its 21 traders a more inspiring place to sell flowers and according to Levi, people are satisfied with the new place. "The new building is lighter and brighter, which enables buyers to get a better impression of the flowers. Besides that, the air conditioning system conditions the Flower Hall to a constant 14°C, which is a perfect temperature for storing flowers."
For more information
New Convent Garden Flower Market
Claire Levi
Email: claire.levi@cgma.co.uk
www.newcoventgardenmarket.com