Red Rose Prices Have Started to Rise Already!

As mentioned in a previous blog entry, the price of red roses has taken a major price increase today at the flower auctions. Please let me remind you why this is: Unscrupulous cut flower wholesalers are buying red roses for Valentines Day supply and storing them for despatch to customers on Friday 11th & Saturday 12th February. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to work out that these roses will be two weeks old before they hit the shops!

There is only one reason why they are buying early - today the price will be cheaper than just before February 14th! This is common practice with large companies that have multiple outlets. Another reason they do this is to ensure they have the massive quantity they require.

If one of your supplier's prices are much cheaper than the others beware! Please ask questions and inspect your roses carefully on delivery. Stored roses can be extremely deceiving. If untouched they will probably look fine when delivered - but 24 hours in a central heated house & they will ping wide open and last for just a few days. (And that's if you are lucky!).

Tips on how to tell if the quoted prices are for pre-stored roses

All legitimate red rose prices are negotiated with the growers and cut just before delivery and prices are fairly standard.

If you have been quoted less than £1.00 per stem (+VAT) for Passion Roses 60 & 70cm the roses will have been purchased early and pre-stored. This example alone is a definate sign!

BE CAREFUL - BE WARNED!