Jackie Levine, the fourth-generation manager of Central Square Florist and a frequent speaker for Society of American Florists events and webinars, was a guest on CNBC on May 29.
The floral industry received a major plug Friday, May 29, when Cambridge, Massachusetts florist Jackie Levine appeared on CNBC to discuss her shop’s return to business following a six-week hiatus during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
Levine, the fourth-generation manager of Central Square Florist and a frequent speaker for Society of American Florists events and webinars, chatted with anchor Sara Eisen and guest Alicia Syrett, Pantegrion Capital CEO, about challenges, such as fewer passenger planes creating issues transporting flowers from South America and Europe, as well as opportunities — including a greater focus on Father’s Day to applaud all the homeschooling and character-building dads have taken on during the lockdown.
“Maybe this year’s Father’s Day will be bigger,” she said. “Flowers and plants are great gifts, especially if someone can’t see their dad, or wants to say thank you for all they’ve done during this time.”
Throughout the six-minute segment, Levine emphasized flowers’ ability to connect people. “They’re the perfect gift to say, ‘Hey, I can’t be with you right now, but I’m thinking of you,’” she said.
When Syrett wondered if there might be a market for people interested in beautifying their backdrop for Zoom meetings, Levine didn’t miss the chance to tout flowers’ mental wellness benefits. “Totally,” she said. “We have a lot of eager customers working from home who want flowers and plants right now. They brighten up a room and freshen the air, making you feel happier.”
Watch the full interview here.
For a few Father’s Day marketing ideas, click here.
Katie Hendrick Vincent is the senior contributing writer and editor for the Society of American Florists.
