The floral industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, shaped by shifting consumer expectations, global sourcing dynamics, logistics innovation, and the importance of strong relationships across the supply chain. In 2025, Gardens America remained focused on staying present, engaged, and forward-looking—showing up where the industry gathers, investing in leadership and education, and strengthening the foundation for what comes next.
Advocacy and Industry Representation
In March, Gardens America participated in Society of American Florists Congressional Action Days in Washington, D.C., joining floral industry leaders from across the country to advocate on issues directly impacting floriculture.
Discussions focused on priorities such as APHIS staffing at ports of entry, workforce stability, duty-free imports, and continued investment in floriculture research. Participation in Congressional Action Days reflects Gardens America’s commitment to engaging beyond day-to-day operations and supporting policies that help ensure a stable, sustainable future for the floral supply chain.
A Year of Industry Engagement and Connection
Throughout 2025, Gardens America participated in key industry events across the U.S. and internationally, reinforcing the value of face-to-face connection and shared learning. From conferences and conventions to trade shows and community-driven initiatives, these moments allowed our team to exchange insights, support partners, and stay close to emerging trends.
The year began with SAF Next Gen Live! in Dallas, where Gardens America sponsored the event and President Kristin Gilliland participated as a panelist. Focused on supporting the next generation of floral professionals, the event emphasized leadership development, communication, and long-term industry growth.
In March, Gardens America supported The Bloom Together Event in Doral, bringing together floral designers, wholesalers, and industry professionals for collaboration and creative exchange. Community-focused events like these continue to play an important role in strengthening regional and national relationships.
Summer brought a strong presence at major trade shows, including FloriExpo in Fort Lauderdale, where Gardens America exhibited and connected with buyers, suppliers, and peers across the floral supply chain. This was followed by the FSFA International Convention in Orlando, which provided opportunities to engage with designers, educators, and floral leaders while showcasing premium fresh-cut offerings.
In August, the team attended the Society of American Florists’ Annual Convention in Phoenix, participating in the Vendor Showcase and engaging in conversations shaping the future of the industry. September marked a meaningful milestone with Dillon Wholesale’s 150th Anniversary in Bloomsburg, where Gardens America attended as a vendor to support a long-standing partner and celebrate a legacy within the floral community.
International sourcing remained a priority with attendance at Proflora in Bogotá, one of the world’s most important flower trade shows. Participating as buyers allowed the team to explore new vendors, strengthen global relationships, and expand access to premium floral varieties.
The year also included community-focused initiatives such as Petal It Forward in Broward County, where Gardens America partnered locally to help spread kindness through flowers, as well as industry crossover events like Wedding MBA in Las Vegas, where the team exhibited and connected with wedding and event professionals nationwide.
Industry Leadership and Ongoing Involvement
Beyond event participation, 2025 also reflected Gardens America’s continued commitment to active industry leadership. Involvement at the national and state level remains an important part of how the company contributes to the long-term strength and sustainability of the floral industry.
During the year, Gardens America leaders were appointed to key industry organizations, reinforcing a focus on education, advocacy, and collaboration across the floral supply chain. President Kristin Gilliland was named to the Board of Trustees of the American Floral Endowment, where she contributes to initiatives supporting research, scholarships, and floral marketing programs that benefit the industry as a whole. Her role includes participation on committees focused on public relations, development, and industry advancement.
In addition, Gardens America sales team member Renee Hesselbach was elected to the Board of Directors of the Illinois State Florists’ Association. Through this role, she helps support professional education, strategic planning, and advocacy efforts for florists and suppliers throughout the region.
These leadership appointments reflect a broader philosophy at Gardens America: staying engaged beyond daily operations and contributing to the organizations that help move the floral industry forward. As the industry looks toward 2026, continued participation in associations, boards, and working groups remains a priority.
Strengthening the Brand Behind the Scenes
In addition to industry participation, 2025 marked a period of thoughtful refinement for Gardens America as a brand. Behind the scenes, the company completed a brand refresh and updated key elements of its online presence to better reflect who Gardens America is today and where it is headed.
These updates focused on clarity, consistency, and usability—ensuring that customers, partners, and industry peers experience the same reliability and professionalism online that they do through daily operations. The refreshed brand direction supports continued growth while staying grounded in Gardens America’s core values of quality, service, and trust.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the floral industry looks toward 2026, Gardens America remains committed to staying close to the conversations that matter most—sourcing, logistics, innovation, and long-term partnership. Continued engagement in industry events, ongoing investment in team development, and a focus on strong supplier and customer relationships will remain central to the year ahead.
While the industry continues to change, the fundamentals remain the same: consistency, collaboration, and showing up. Gardens America looks forward to building on the momentum of 2025 and continuing to support floral professionals with premium products and dependable service in 2026 and beyond.
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