UK: 15 years of Irish poinsettias at M&S

Wexford's O'Connor Nurseries is celebrating its 15th Christmas supplying Marks & Spencer stores in Ireland. Since 2010, the family-owned nursery has been providing M&S customers with fresh, great-quality poinsettias.

This Christmas, M&S is stocking a range of poinsettias in sizes from small to medium and large, including eye-catching red, white varieties and a brand-new exclusive Poinsettia tin.

O'Connor Nurseries' story began in 1969 as a tomato nursery run by Jim's father. In 1994, the business pivoted to focus solely on flowers. It's expertise in poinsettias spans 30 years – originating, as Jim recalls, from a challenge: "Someone told us we wouldn't be able to grow Poinsettias, so we thought we'd prove them wrong."

Today, O'Connor Nurseries is a wholesale plant supplier and one of only three Poinsettia growers in Ireland.

Growing M&S's festive Poinsettias takes tender care and decades of expertise. Jim O'Connor, a father of four and the second generation to lead the business, has over 30 years of growing experience, cultivating the blooms in Wexford, Ireland's Sunny South East, known for its ideal light levels. Combining this natural advantage with Jim's skill and product knowledge allows M&S to offer customers truly vibrant, long-lasting Irish poinsettias each year.

Reflecting on the partnership, Jim said: "We're immensely proud of our 15-year partnership with M&S. Their commitment to sourcing the best local produce aligns perfectly with our values. This relationship allows us to deliver the fresh, great quality poinsettias that will last throughout the Christmas period and beyond. Picking up a poinsettia is a simple way to brighten the home and bring in that wonderful festive feeling."

Jim also highlighted the importance of local production in protecting supply quality: "Poinsettias are notoriously delicate and do not travel well. Historically, many were imported from the Netherlands, but long journeys often led to leaf damage and shortened lifespan. Growing locally ensures superior quality and freshness for the customer."

© Marks & Spencer

To achieve that quality, the growing process is meticulous. The plants are nurtured indoors, planted in June, and require precise and gradually reduced temperatures before distribution. Integrated pest management and expert oversight are key to maintaining standards.

Jim added: "I'm immensely proud that we produce here in Ireland, and especially proud of our team – including our grower, Mark Miskella, who is one of the best in the country. Our ambition is to continue being a reliable alternative to imports. Why import when you can get higher-quality poinsettias grown right here at home?"

For customers picking up their Irish-grown poinsettia this Christmas, Jim has one key piece of advice for longevity: "Place it somewhere with daylight rather than artificial light and somewhere away from a draft and in ambient heat. And most importantly – don't overwater it! That's the quickest way to lose a poinsettia."

Michelle Allen, Produce Buyer at Marks & Spencer, adds: "Having grown up in Wexford, it's truly special to celebrate 15 years working alongside O'Connor Nurseries here in Ireland. Their passion for growing the best Irish poinsettias means our customers receive vibrant, long-lasting festive blooms. This partnership reflects our commitment to local suppliers and bringing the very best of Ireland to our stores."