The wholesale flower industry has changed dramatically over the past century and has become a very competitive business, putting pressure on florists to meet certain standards in order to remain profitable. There are many factors that go into choosing a wholesale florist. Florists should consider these seven factors when looking for a wholesaler that will work well with their needs:
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1) Location
A recommended florist in Singapore may be located near other wholesalers already providing flowers locally, or it may be necessary to find someone whose business is distant from the retailer’s shop. If there are already multiple suppliers servicing an area, then prices are likely to be low due to competition. The price difference could justify the cost of shipping products between businesses rather than purchasing the product locally.
2) Reputation
Reputable wholesalers are reputable companies with a proven track record of customer service and professionalism in the industry, often achieved through an affiliation with flower associations or some other means of showing their dedication to the wellbeing of the florist industry. Since many wholesale florists work with dozens or even hundreds of retailers each month, they should be able to provide advice on trends, new products, ideas for layouts, etc., which can help increase sales at any individual location.
Shoppers prefer shops that have more than one supplier so they don’t run out of stock or miss opportunities to purchase items while they wait for an order to come in.
3) Diversification
All wholesale flower businesses have a particular region that they focus on, but many also offer flowers from other parts of the globe as well as non-floral items such as vases and other decorative objects. A wholesaler should carry a variety so all types of retailers can find something to provide their customers with an extensive inventory.
4) Availability
Shoppers want a source for any need so they don’t have to scour multiple shops trying to find a certain type of product. They also want products available when they need them; florists should place orders in advance if possible to ensure products will be ready for pick up within 48 hours after the order is placed (most wholesale suppliers require 24 hours notice). This is particularly important during holidays like Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Christmas.
5) Product Quality
One of the most important factors in choosing a recommended florist in Singapore is product quality. A wholesaler should provide flowers that are fresh and preserved to remain attractive over their shelf life. The flowers must retain vibrant color and last longer than they would if used directly from a bouquet purchased at a local shop. If the product fails to meet expectations after it is delivered, then the retailer has no obligation to purchase further goods from that supplier.
6) Payment Options
Many florists pay their wholesale accounts once per month with invoices that detail items received and remainders from previous shipments as well as any overage charges due from previous months’ orders. Retailers should understand how they will be charged to anticipate any issues that might arise throughout the month and avoid costly surprises.
In summary, the most important factors to consider when choosing a wholesale florist are location, reputation, diversification, availability, product quality, and payment options. Choosing the wrong supplier can be detrimental to a retail business because of poor customer service or inferior product quality. It is best to take time researching suppliers and building relationships with several before making a final decision on who will fill your needs.
