As Mother's Day and prom season kick into high gear, florists in Phoenix and across the United States are navigating through the thorny issue of tariffs on imported flowers. Mia Ortiz, who took over her parents' business, Mia's Flower Shop, remarked to ABC15, "They are hurting us as a small business." With prom and Mother’s Day marking some of the busiest times for flower sales, the timing of the tariffs is concerning for the industry.
In a season where vibrant floral arrangements are in high demand, the imposition of a 10 to 18% tariff on floral imports and a staggering 145% import tax on associated goods from China, such as wrapping paper, has prompted local businesses to reconsider their pricing strategies. Ortiz shared with ABC15 the inevitability of raising prices, stating, "At this point, we will have to just raise our prices." This challenge is shared by other florists, who are reportedly turning to more domesticated blooms where possible, yet many varieties continue to be reliant on imports.
Despite these challenges, some customers like Ruby Ruiz, a 14-year-old from Avondale who is shopping for her quinceañera, remain committed to supporting local businesses. "It's really important for me right now... just like by supporting them and like buying stuff," Ruiz said in a statement obtained by ABC15. Florists like Ortiz are exploring alternative offers, such as smaller bouquets, to keep the products affordable for their loyal customer base.
The impact of the tariffs is not confined to Phoenix. Across the country, the floral industry is facing similar price hikes. Jil Schlisner of Inside Moss Pink in Colorado expressed to FloralDaily.com, "Everything is probably going to go up .50, .75, $1.75 per stem, which is quite a lot." Further north, Tasha Lee, owner of Tasha Flowers in Baltimore, shared the difficult choices presented to customers in light of the tariffs.
The Society of American Florists has taken an active stance against the new tariffs, urging business owners to reach out to their representatives to oppose these cost inflations that threaten the vitality of a tradition-steeped industry.
