The British Florist Association has posted an updated Q&A for florists, which they compiled on March 24 after speaking to other associations, wholesalers, and our florist industry colleagues.
Does a florist shop count as non-essential?
Yes, therefore you must close your businesses to the general public walking into your shop or studio. Just because you might work at home, new rules on social distancing and working from home still applies.
Can I keep my online business?
Yes. if you sell online then you can continue to run your business.
I have read that I can not apply for a grant if I remain with my business, is this true?
No. Department for Business, Innovation and Skills help line said ‘’Flower shops have to close to the public. Florist can trade on-line, can also accept telephone calls (i.e for funeral work) and florists can deliver.
Small business grants if eligible, will be paid by your local authority and are not affected if you continue trading online’’.
The local authorities will be in touch with those businesses where they believe the grants apply (the grants are not claimed as such) and as above are presumably awaiting more detail from the Government before issuing these letters.
We believe that the relevant local authority will need to be contacted directly if you want a definitive answer – once they have received the necessary guidance from the Government.
What benefit can I claim?
Whether you are currently in or out of work, if you are on a low income and affected by the economic impacts of COVID-19, you will be able to access the full range of the welfare system, including Universal Credit.
Have all wholesalers closed down?
No. Some larger online companies are still running deliveries into the UK from Holland. If these are not your normal suppliers then you may be asked to pay upfront. Don’t expect credit terms. Growers need their money also. British growers are also available for a limited supply but you must contact them directly and arrange your own deliveries where possible.
Can I deliver to the funeral directors?
Yes. We have contacted the NFD which have now advised you contact your local funeral directors. Deliveries are still allowed (if your FD allows) as long as you follow Government advice.
Can I get support for rent costs?
You should check your eligibility for Universal Credit, which is available for people in and out of work. Support for rental costs will be paid through Universal Credit.
Do I have lay off all my staff?
No, this is a huge decision that only you can make. Please read the following link about staff layoff. https://www.britishfloristassociation.org/for-the-industry/florist-news-on-covid-19/
For more information:
British Florist Association
www.britishfloristassociation.org