Floral industry sees growth and advocacy in 2024
SAF advanced the floral industry in 2024 with advocacy, education, and networking, benefiting growers and professionals with new resources and initiatives.
The Society of American Florists (SAF) strengthened its role as an advocate and resource for the floral industry in 2024, focusing on government advocacy, education and community building.
SAF conducted over 200 meetings with lawmakers and regulators, pushing for renewed trade programs, increased floriculture research funding, and EPA regulation feedback. The SAF Political Action Committee (SAFPAC) raised $30,601 to advance these efforts.
“SAF has been there every step of the way, helping members navigate a constantly changing business environment,” said SAF president Oscar Fernandez.
Membership grew by 3.5%, with 185 new members accessing resources such as fresh product samples and industry networking. SAF’s virtual and in-person events brought together 915 attendees and over 1,185 next-generation professionals through online forums.
The SAF Floral Education Hub provided more than 100 courses on topics like sustainability and digital strategy, serving 839 members. Additionally, SAF distributed 175 stories on trends and insights, amplifying industry knowledge.
Through initiatives like Petal It Forward, which spanned 49 states and five countries, SAF also bolstered industry visibility and fostered goodwill.
Check out the SAF infographic here.