As part of its ongoing effort to cultivate the next generation of talent, SAF is launching a new event, NextGen Live, July 31-Aug. 2, in Miami. Above, young floral industry professionals gather for a NextGen Reception at SAF Orlando 2021, last September.
Retailers, wholesalers and suppliers looking for a place to connect under one roof have an additional option this year from the Society of American Florists. In addition to its popular annual convention, SAF is launching a new event, Next Gen LIVE!, designed specifically for young floral professionals.
“SAF’s annual convention is all about anticipating and adapting to the most significant trends, evolving your best practices to drive growth and, of course, making connections,” says SAF CEO Kate Penn. “We also want to really zero in on this issue of recruiting and retaining young talent for the future of the industry. It’s our industry’s biggest challenge. So we’ve developed an event designed to educate and inspire the industry’s young rising stars to love — and stay in — this industry and be super productive and successful at their companies.”
SAF leaders will share more details about Next Gen LIVE! and SAF’s plans for its 2022 convention next week. Here are some preliminary details:
Next Gen LIVE!
Next Gen LIVE! — a new event designed by and for floral industry professionals 45 years old and younger — is happening July 31-August 2 at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue in Miami, Florida. Designed for all segments — retailers, wholesalers, importers, growers, manufacturers — it will feature educational sessions focused on productivity, marketing and leadership; an interactive look at the “life of a flower” from breeder to consumer; and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Miami Airport facilities, including an inside look at an importing and transportation facility. Also on tap is a “Chopped” style team design competition, plenty of networking time and a Supplier Showcase.
The event was conceived by SAF’s Next Gen Committee, a group of floral professionals 40 years old and younger that guides SAF on how to engage young members in the floral industry. (Want to get involved with Next Gen? Join their Facebook page or contact us).
The committee saw a need to give the next generation an immersive opportunity to learn more about leadership, the industry and a way to connect with peers.
“This event stands apart from other industry events because it focuses solely on the needs of the next generation,” says Nicole Palazzo, who chairs the Next Gen Committee. “I’m excited to bring the group together for an interactive experience where we will also learn from each other, resulting in a stronger floral industry.”
Who should attend? The event is open to floral professionals in all sectors who are 45 years old or younger. Register now.
SAF Orlando 2022
SAF’s annual convention, Sept. 6-8 at the Hilton Orlando in Orlando, Florida, will provide world-class business training, growth strategies, inspiration and networking across industry segments. The two-day event also features the Outstanding Varieties Competition, the Sylvia Cup Design Competition, the Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner, and a Supplier Expo.
“The convention will feature all of the favorite competitions, networking and supply showcases,” says Penn. “Programming-wise, the event will be hyper focused on helping attendees understand this next ‘new normal.’ How do we adapt our marketing, brands and operations amidst the enormous shifts we’re seeing in consumer behavior, technology and the economy?”
The convention is also an opportunity for the industry to come together and connect.
“Just being able to connect and fellowship with other florists across the country is well worth the trip,” says James Burrage of Marvel’s Flowers in Killeen, Texas, who attended SAF Orlando 2021. “Not to mention the valuable knowledge that is available to make us better shop owners and designers.”
Registration is open, and early bird rates are available until June 30.
Need help deciding who should plan to attend these events? Tune in next week for more detailed information about Next Gen LIVE! and SAF Orlando 2022 programming and speakers.
Amanda Jedlinsky is the managing editor of SAF Now.
