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Institute of Flowers launched to support Ireland’s professional florists

Fionnuala McAuley, Interim chair, Institute of Flowers (Photo: Robert McQuillan, Skylarkfotos)

Officially opened by MEP Maria Walsh, the new institute aims to empower more than 4,000 florists and promote sustainable practices in the industry

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29 October 2024

The newly established Institute of Flowers, the only association for Ireland’s 4000+ professional florists, was officially launched this week by MEP Maria Walsh, at Bellinter House, Navan, Co. Meath.

The Institute hosted its inaugural training programme which is part funded by Positive2Work Skillnet, one of 70 Skillnet Ireland Business Networks nationwide at the launch and networking event.

The Irish cut flower market holds significant economic impact and is valued by Bord Bia (2023) at €97 million. 

Local Fianna Fail Cllr. Aisling Dempsey attended and spoke at the event. Positive2Work Skillnet presented certificates to florists who completed the association’s first professional training programme.

Maria Walsh, MEP, said: “As Ireland’s only organisation dedicated to the floristry industry, the Institute of Flowers is vital for empowering the more than 4,000 professional florists across Ireland. The Institute not only facilitates vital upskilling for florists but also advocates for their recognition as skilled professionals in our economy. 

“I am especially pleased to see the Institute partnering with Skillnet Ireland through its Positive2Work Skillnet to deliver critical training for our local businesses. As an MEP, I’ve always championed small enterprises and female entrepreneurs, and this Institute is a valuable step toward future-proofing Ireland’s floral sector, supporting local jobs, and sustaining our communities.”

Fionnuala McAuley, Interim chair, Institute of Flowers, said: “Local Irish florists are an important part of the fabric of Irish towns and communities, playing a crucial role at key life events for families and community groups. Our newly established Institute will support and nurture the sector to future-proof it for generations to come. “

Grainne O’Boyle, Network promoter, Positive2Work Skillnet, said: “Sustainable business practices are key to delivering a competitive response to the challenges facing all Irish businesses. This is particularly true in the floristry industry which is largely SME based. The Irish cut flower industry generates €97m annually and faces significant challenges in building business competitiveness where profit margins can be tight. Positive2Work Skillnet are delighted to part fund the delivery of the Institute of Flowers workshops which will provide participants with hands-on experience in creating sustainable floral arrangements in a manner which incorporates eco-friendly practices into their businesses.”

The Blooming Forward event also included a dynamic panel discussion by Lamber De Bie, Dutch master florist from Lamber De Bie Florists in Kilkenny and Waterford; Judi Roche from Balla Flowers in Mayo; Eoin Morton, head of Policy & Public Affairs, Skillnet Ireland Caroline Marshall-Foster, founder of the UK’s Good Florist Guide and editor of The Florist Magazine exploring the sector’s challenges and opportunities and focusing on how the sector can grow stronger in a changing market while building a more sustainable, forward-thinking industry.

Upskilling is key to growth within the industry and a core area of focus for the Institute in helping its members to develop their technical and business skills through regular events and training.  

As the collective voice for the sector, the Institute advocates for recognition of florists as valued, professional members of the Irish business community and of local communities throughout the country.

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