You live and you learn. After running out of roses for Valentine’s Day last year, flower shop owner Steven Faries is ready this time.

The owner of the Flower Bar in the Washington Mall has increased stock by 40 per cent and is already seeing strong foot traffic.

The Flower Bar, a combined flower shop and event space, is now crammed with fresh flowers, teddy bears, bottles of champagne and candles.

“Business is definitely picking up,” Mr Faries said. “This is typically a busy time of year for us, and we have already seen a strong amount of preorders come in.”

The global cut-flower market was valued at between $35 billion to $39 billion from 2023 to 2024 and is projected to reach $50 billion by 2030.

However, the climate crisis has had its impact.

Mr Faries said: “In recent years, extreme-weather events such as wildfires, floods, droughts and unseasonal temperature swings have affected many of the regions that supply flowers. These climate-related disruptions can reduce crop yields, delay harvests and disrupt transportation routes, which in turn can tighten supply.”

He said as a result, the cost of cut flowers has increased in many cases.

“When supply is limited but demand remains strong, growers and exporters often adjust pricing to reflect the added challenges and risks,” he said. “This is particularly true for certain varieties that are more sensitive to weather changes or who come from areas experiencing severe drought or flooding.”

Mr Faries said because of global supply-chain pressures and the high cost of importing perishable goods he is experiencing higher landed costs than in previous years.

“As a result, there will be a modest increase in Valentine’s flower pricing compared to last year,” he said.

To handle the global situation, he has adjusted his buying strategy to build stronger relationships with multiple suppliers.

“We have increased our inventory early to ensure availability and brought in a broader selection of blooms so customers have great options even when certain varieties are harder to source,” he said.

Despite these challenges, he remained committed to offering quality flowers and gifts that help people to celebrate love and meaningful moments.