When it comes to floral longevity and profitability, few investments pay off like a well-tuned cooler. At Penny’s by Plaza Flowers in Philadelphia, owner Chris Drummond, AAF, PFCI, says maintaining temperatures just above freezing — with help from real-time sensors and data logging — has become a game changer.
“Getting as close to 32°F as possible without freezing the flowers has dramatically extended vase life, reduced shrinkage, and helped us better manage labor and inventory,” Drummond, a past president of the Society of American Florists, says in the July/August issue of Floral Management.
Smart refrigeration isn’t just about freshness — it’s a strategy for smoother holiday operations and higher profits. By storing blooms at 33°F to 35°F, florists can safely start Valentine’s Day designs two weeks in advance, minimizing overtime and maximizing output without sacrificing quality.
Learn how cold storage technology and simple care techniques can help florists control costs and boost efficiency in “Chilling for Success” in the July/August issue.
Amanda Jedlinsky is the senior director of content and communications for the Society of American Florists.
