Floriexpo and Association of Floral Importers of America (AFIA) Announce Strategic Partnership, Elevating Industry Collaboration Year-Round

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Fort Lauderdale, FL – [3.19.25] – Floriexpo and the Association of Floral Importers of America (AFIA), the leading voice for floral importers in the United States, today announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership to extend the benefits of their respective platforms, fostering industry growth and collaboration 365 days a year.

The Association of Floral Importers of America (AFIA) has represented and advocated for the U.S. cut flower importing industry since 1982.  AFIA’s mission is to support and advocate for the floral import industry, which makes up about 80% of the flowers in the US market.
AFIA, helps floral importers stay ahead with proactive advocacy, key insights, and cost-saving opportunities. Get fresher flowers, satisfied customers, and higher profits while making smart decisions with peace of mind.

Floriexpo is the largest high-volume B2B floral show in North America, uniting floral category vendors with mass market floral buyers from supermarkets, chain stores, wholesale florist distributors, online retailers and more.  Product categories span from fresh cut flowers and greens to potted plants, containers, plush, technology, balloons, care and handling, design, and everything in between.

This first of its kind alliance signifies a powerful synergy, combining Floriexpo’s premier marketplace for connecting buyers and suppliers with AFIA’s expertise in advocacy, education, and industry resources. Both organizations aim to enhance the floral industry’s landscape, providing unparalleled value to their members and the broader community.

“Floriexpo is thrilled to partner with AFIA, a respected leader in the floral import sector,” said Bob Callahan, President and CEO at Floriexpo.  As owners of the show, we are committed in supporting the floral industry throughout the year.  Floriexpo is now committed to supporting AFIA lobbying programs, which will enhance industry advocacy in this turbulent import landscape. In addition, Floriexpo will work with AFIA to identify and assist new importers looking to break into the U.S. market. This collaboration will allow us to provide our attendees and exhibitors educational opportunities, valuable insights, and expanded networking possibilities beyond the annual trade show.”

“Partnering with Floriexpo allows AFIA to further amplify our mission of championing our members and the floral industry as a whole,” stated Christine Boldt, Executive Vice President at AFIA. “This partnership allows AFIA to strengthen our mission of expanding industry advocacy as well as increasing our membership providing necessary resources to companies looking to grow their import business. We look forward to a fruitful and impactful collaboration.”

Key benefits of the partnership include:

• Increased Industry Advocacy: ** Collaborative efforts to address industry challenges and promote sustainable growth.
• Cross-Promotion and Awareness: ** Increased visibility for both organizations and their members through joint marketing and promotional activities.
• Expanded Educational Resources: ** Jointly developed educational at Floriexpo addressing critical industry topics.
• Enhanced Networking Opportunities: ** Year-round networking events and online platforms to facilitate connections between buyers, suppliers, and importers.
• Elevated Market Insights: ** Access to market research, trends, and data to inform business decisions.

This strategic partnership underscores Floriexpo and AFIA’s commitment to fostering a thriving and sustainable floral industry. Both organizations are excited to embark on this collaborative journey, delivering enhanced value to their members and the industry as a whole.

For more information please contact Lauren St. Clair, VP, Marketing – lstclair@floriexpo.com or Christine Boldt –  Executive Vice President-  christine@weareafia.com

About Floriexpo:
Floriexpo is North America’s largest business-to-business floral trade show, connecting floral buyers with suppliers from around the world. The annual event provides a platform for networking, education, and discovering the latest trends and innovations in the floral industry. For more information, visit www.floriexpo.com

About Association of Floral Importers of America (AFIA):
AFIA is the leading voice for floral importers in the United States, representing a diverse membership of importers, distributors, and related businesses. Since 1982 the organization is committed to advocating for fair trade practices, promoting industry standards, and providing valuable resources to its members. For more information, visit www.weareafia.org/