The IFPA Floral Conference an immersive experience
The International Fresh Produce Association launched its Breeder Showcase at The Floral Conference Feb. 24-26. It was an immersive experience that brought together breeders, importers, growers and supermarket buyers under one roof.
The event provided a unique format that seamlessly blended product showcases, networking opportunities, and insightful discussions. Throughout the day, breeders presented their latest floral varieties, offering a preview of upcoming trends and floral innovations shaping the market. The environment was engaging yet relaxed, making it easy to connect with floral industry professionals, exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations.
Having the opportunity to hear from respected leaders such as Carlos Oramas of Gems Group, John Simko of Sunshine Bouquets, and Bas Pellenaars of Dümmen Orange, along with an introduction to Colleen Fagundus, the new president of Floral at IFPA, added valuable perspectives on the industry’s evolving landscape.
The event was structured to encourage both learning and relationship-building, with a strong focus on economic insights, consumer behavior trends, and sustainability. Sessions like "The Power of Shopper Insights for Floral" provided data-driven takeaways on floral sales growth, shifting purchasing habits, and the impact of economic changes on the industry. A dedicated panel on modern consumer expectations highlighted how businesses can adapt to emerging trends, sustainability demands, and evolving retail strategies.
The event’s format allowed for fluid discussions and natural connections making it not just an educational experience but also a strategic networking opportunity. It was a valuable space to connect with potential floral buyers, breeders eager to showcase their varieties, and industry professionals looking to align on future innovations.
JD Lecuona with David Marin of Deliflor Americas SAS.
Williee Armellini of Flowersandcents.com and Ivan Salazar of Ecuador's Origin Products.
Rebecca Lusk of Vaughan's Horticulture.
Rene Kuiper with Jackie Jewett of Nazcaflor USA Inc.
Vanessa Leite of That Flower Feeling with Guillermo Mahecha of Broekhof USA Inc.
Cesar Mauricio Torres with Carlos Castillo of NIRP.
Carmen Lucia Marquez of Ball Horticultural Co.
Sirekit Mol of Beekenkamp Plants with Kat Wolper of Beekenkamp Plants BV - Ornamentals.
Ben Kneppers with Jawin van der Steen of Zaboplant B.V.
Jawin van der Steen of Zaboplant B.V. with Pieter Landman of Blooming Vision BV.
Danean Allan of Armellini Express Lines Inc. with Josh Noonan and David Rehnert of Robinson Fresh.
Rick Minck with Juan Carlos Naranjo of Floritec Trading B.V.
Martin Flores and Monica Tamayo of Danziger Flower Farm with Daniela Espana of Asocolflores.
Sebastian Franco and Yerandy Palenzuela of EQR USA with Corey Layman of Continental Floral Greens.
Jan Jorrit with Alexander Cardona Osorio of HilverdaFlorist.
Daniela Navarro of Selecta Cut Flowers S.A.U.
Lauren Janeka, Colleen Fagundus and Mirriam Wolk of International Fresh Produce Association.
Bas Pellenaars of Dummen Orange.
David Marin of Deliflor Americas SAS with Kim Boin of Galleria Farms.
