In spite of the COVID-19 situation affecting the global flower market, a large number of rose farms in Ecuador and Colombia are confident that the demand for flowers, especially roses will return in 2021, and are therefore taking this time of uncertainty to shore up their portfolio. This is explained by Aviram Krell of Plantec. As one of the largest rose plant propagators in Central and South America, they are seeing large orders of varieties that have already shown their potential in the market.
Aviram Krell in Plantec's showroom holding an open "Explorer" rose.
Deciding on the newer varieties for the market
According to Mr. Krell, growers are discarding their older varieties which were being sold by their color and have long since passed their prime, and replacing them with newer roses that retailers and florists are asking for by name. "In these times where a single mistake can have severe consequences, we notice that growers shy away from brand new untested varieties, preferring roses that have already entered the market without saturating it. Varieties such as Explorer and Mondial, Hilux, Fortune, Goldfinch, and Blessing are a few examples of what is being requested to replace older varieties that were not particularly profitable before the crisis, and are now producing at a loss."
Explorer, Modial, Hilux
Turning problem into opportunity
Due to the COVID-19 situation worldwide, the demand for flowers decreased sharply and in turn resulted in lower orders for the growers. But even in the midst of the pandemic, when there were little to no sales (particularly from the wholesalers), some growers maintained their confidence that the demand for roses would return. So, instead of throwing in the towel, they began turning this crisis into a time for repositioning and growth. At least, this is what Mr. Krell is witnessing first hand among many of the larger growers. "Using this time of reduced global exportation they (the growers) have decided to focus on rebuilding and restructuring the foundation of the farms, allowing our clients to take a serious problem, and turn it into an opportunity. This decision will reduce current maintenance costs almost immediately and provide additional revenue once these plants begin to produce in a few months."
Fortune, Goldfinch, Blessing.
Flower industry is returning to normal
Fortunately, some improvements are becoming visible "We've maintained an optimistic position since the onset of Covid-19, and we are now seeing that slowly the flower industry is returning to normal in the US, Europe, Asia, and hopefully soon, the rest of the world."
Propagation area at Plantec.
For more information
Plantec Ecuador
www.plantecuador.com
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