Victorian florists scramble as Valentine’s Day turns to shambles

·

Florists in Victoria are scrambling to figure out how to deal with extra stock as the state enters a stage-four five-day lockdown.

Valentine’s Day, along with the day prior, is one of the busiest times of the year for florists. Hundreds of people typically seen lining up to buy roses or other flowers for their significant other.

February 13, 2021; Silence. Streets are empty as florists sit wondering how to sell their fresh stock of flowers.

“We’re just in a state of shock and disbelief. The timing couldn’t be any worse,” Florist Michael Pavlou, who has two stores in Melbourne, said to ABC News.

Azalea florist owner Michael Pavlou. Photo: South Melbourne Markets

“We’re holding so much perishable stock, it’s potentially shattering for a lot of Victorian small businesses. We’re holding so much value of red roses and perishable items. If they don’t find homes, it will put us back years.”

He said he hoped to be able to sell some of his stock online.

“Valentine’s Day, it’s a big thing. People are working on it for at least a month out, we have been ready, preparing all of our arrangements for a couple of days. A team of 10 people every day,” he said.

“So, it’s not just the loss of the goods, it’s the labour that’s already been invested. You can’t recover that and I am concerned for a lot of my friends who might not survive this,” he said.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Chris Christofi becomes highest fundraiser in Vinnies CEO Sleepout history

Melbourne entrepreneur and long-time Vinnies ambassador Chris Christofi has raised $400,000 in this year’s Vinnies CEO Sleepout.

Over $17,000 raised for St John NT through Darwin GleNTi 2025 festival

More than $17,000 was raised for St John NT at this year’s Darwin GleNTi festival, thanks to the generosity of attendees.

Major changes for Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation as language program nears end

Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation held its Annual General Meeting at the AHEPA Hall on Sunday, June 22 from 4:30pm.

Derbies, underdogs, and big clashes set for Australia Cup Round of 32

The fixtures for the Hahn Australia Cup 2025 Round of 32 have been revealed following the tournament’s Official Draw on Wednesday night.

Estudiantina of Melbourne to perform soulful tribute to Greek music pioneers

Estudiantina of Melbourne return to Bird’s Basement on Friday, July 25 to present a heartfelt tribute to Rita Abadzi and Kostas Roukounas.

You May Also Like

Operation Ironside: Apostle Broikos has his charges upgraded

Apostle Broikos fronted Adelaide Magistrates Court on charges of manufacturing a large commercial quantity of methylamphetamine.

State of emergency declared in Crete village after landslides damage homes

A state of emergency has been declared in the village of Voutes, in Heraklion, Crete, following intense landslides.

Former Greek royal palace to be turned into five-star spa-hotel

The famous Greek royal palace of Tatoi, which once housed the Greek royal family, is set to be turned into a new luxury 5-star hotel and spa.