Sept. 22 is the official start of fall—and the start of one of your busiest seasons! Fall also brings some fantastic marketing opportunities, but it takes a bit of preparation. Here are a few things Rio Roses said you can do right now to bring in maximum revenue throughout the fall season.

The American Floral Endowment has awarded 21 students with scholarships totaling $54,500. In this 2021 scholarship cycle, 57 applications were received and reviewed.

AFE is aware the floral industry faces significant challenges to our labor force. Now more than ever, these programs are imperative in helping support new professionals enter the industry and launch a successful career.

Professional credentials not only give you and your business clout in the industry, but they also distinguish you from competitors. Ready to take your career to the next level? The Society of American Florists is accepting applications for certification in the Professional Floral Communicators-International and the American Academy of Floriculture. SAF is also accepting nominations for the industry’s highest honors.

Hionis Greenhouses in Whitehouse Station, NJ, provided another learning experience for the third Eastern Produce Council Leadership Class. The group toured the operation’s greenhouse facilities on Oct. 5 and benefited from another seminar on leadership by John Eric Jacobsen, a trainer with the Rutgers Office of Continuing Professional Education. 

Floral and hardgoods shortages continue to impact the floral industry, prompting florists to further tap into their creative minds to work around the issue while continuing to create beautiful floral arrangements.

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) announces a new memorial tribute in memory of Robert (Bob) Williams II. Smithers-Oasis CEO Robin Kilbride, along with Red & Katie Kennicott of Kennicott Brothers Co., established the fund.

Robert (Bob) Williams II, AAF, PFCI, former Vice-President of North American Operations for Smithers-Oasis, passed away with his family by his side on September 27, 2021, at the age of 75. Bob was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in March 2020.