The newly established Institute of Flowers, the only association for Ireland’s 4000+ professional florists, will be officially launched by MEP Maria Walsh, at Bellinter House, Navan, Co. Meath, today (Monday October 21st). The Institute will also host 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 today. The Irish cut flower market holds significant economic impact and is valued by Bord Bia (2023) at €97m. Local Fianna Fail Cllr. Aisling Dempsey will also attend and speak at the event. Positive2Work Skillnet will present certificates to florists who complete 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 of 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. Sustainability, digitalisation, AI, competitiveness, upskilling and succession planning are just some of the critical issues that we will support our membership to harness and flourish as a result. There is a huge amount of creativity, talent and expertise within the sector that we need to preserve and share with upcoming generations.
We are delighted to partner with Positive2Work Skillnet by hosting our inaugural ‘Blooming Forward Event’ today at Bellinter House. We are thrilled to have renowned floral designer, educator and sustainability champion Sabine Darrall here as part of that event who will share innovative sustainability techniques and cutting-edge AI tools with our members.”
Eoin Morton, Head of Policy & Public Affairs, Skillnet Ireland said: “Supporting the competitiveness, sustainability, growth and resilience of the SME sector is vital for our economy, a skilled and talented workforce is central to this. At Skillnet Ireland we are committed to supporting and developing the future skills essential to meet the emerging needs of SMEs. I am delighted to see Positive2Work Skillnet working with the sector to ensure the training needs and workforce development for the sector can be delivered and supported here in Ireland.”
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 will also include 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.
For further information:
Claire Keane – claire@ckcomms.ie – 087 121 4140
Louise Cassidy – louise@ckcomms.ie – 086 383 5727
