F. Optimal Connection Market Review Week 44

There has been some positive indications regarding the market prices of roses during the period leading to the first week of November. According to valuble insight by logistics gurus, Flower Optimal connections, the prices might hit more than double of what was seen in the same period in 2018.  

“Generally from week one to week 31, the market was also very low and we can define it as a kind of a crisis period. However, from week 32 to week 44, we have seen a dramatic positive change,” noted Ishai Sharon, Head of Roses Department at F. Optimal Connections. 

Ishai further notes that during the last 8 weeks the average price ranged between 15% and 35% higher when compared to the same period in 2018. This scenario is partly as a result of;

• Periods of cloudy and rainy weather resulted in less production of flowers from Kenya.
• Political instability in Ethiopia resulted to fewer supplies from the region.
• Demonstrations in Ecuador following abolition of subsidies by President Lenín's administation and high gas prices caused significant damage to a number of rose farms. 
• Good weather in Europe opened the whole flower market.

“We can already see some negative results from our suppliers in different countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, the Netherlands and Spain,” says Ishai.

“Unfortunately, most farms are in crisis and some of them will probably cease production.”

1st of November which falls on a Friday is a public hoiday in a few European countries, which might cause some pressure on rose prices.

“November is always a difficult month for flower sales because many people opt for greenery and other Chistmas items. Furthermore, in places like Eastern Europe and Germany, they will be having their Advent weeks. These are religious weeks observed in preparation of Christmas.”

Ishai advises, “With the main flower seasons of Christmas, Valentines Day, Women’s Day and Mother’s Day getting closer, growers should start preparing their crops in readiness for the said holidays and for us to plan for their marketing. Let’s hope for a much better season!”