florist business plan in malaysia

Florist Business Plan PDF Example

• June 15, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful florist business. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your florist business’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a florist business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the retail industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your florist business concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our florist business plan is structured to cover all essential aspects needed for a comprehensive strategy. It outlines the shop’s operations, marketing strategy , market environment, competitors, management team, and financial forecasts.

• Executive Summary : Offers an overview of your florist shop’s business concept, market analysis , management, and financial strategy.
• Store & Location : Describes the store’s design, amenities, and why its location is appealing to potential clients.
• Supply & Products : Lists the types of floral products and related items provided by your shop, including pricing structure.
• Key Stats : Shares industry size , growth trends, and relevant statistics for the florist market.
• Key Trends : Highlights recent trends affecting the florist sector.
• Key Competitors : Analyzes main competitors nearby and how your florist shop differs from them.
• SWOT Analysis : Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis.
• Marketing Plan : Strategies for attracting and retaining customers.
• Timeline : Key milestones and objectives from start-up through the first year of operation.
• Management: Information on who manages the florist shop and their roles.
• Financial Plan: Projects the shop’s 5-year financial performance, including revenue, profits, and expected expenses.

Florist Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your florist’s business plan, offering a concise overview of your flower shop and its services. It should detail your market positioning, the range of floral arrangements and related services you offer, its location, size, and an outline of day-to-day operations.

This section should also explore how your florist will integrate into the local market, including the number of direct competitors within the area, identifying who they are, along with your shop’s unique selling points that differentiate it from these competitors.

Furthermore, you should include information about the management and co-founding team, detailing their roles and contributions to the shop’s success. Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be presented here to provide a clear picture of your florist’s financial plan.

Make sure to cover here _ Business Overview _ Market Overview _ Management Team _ Financial Plan

Business Overview

For a Florist, the Business Overview section can be concisely divided into 2 main slides:

Store & Location

Briefly describe the florist’s physical environment, emphasizing its design, ambiance, and the overall atmosphere that welcomes customers. Mention the store’s location, highlighting its accessibility and the convenience it offers to clients, such as proximity to shopping centers, main streets, or ease of parking. Explain why this location is advantageous in attracting your target clientele, including visibility to foot traffic and its appeal to the local community.

Supply & Products

Detail the range of floral arrangements and related products offered, from everyday bouquets and custom arrangements to event-specific decorations like weddings and corporate functions. Outline your pricing strategy , ensuring it reflects the quality of products provided and matches the market you’re targeting. Highlight any special offerings, seasonal promotions, or subscription services that provide added value to your customers, encouraging repeat business and customer loyalty.

Make sure to cover here _ Store & Location _ Supply & Products

Market Overview

Industry size & growth.

In the Market Overview of your florist business plan, start by examining the size of the floral industry and its growth potential. This analysis is crucial for understanding the market’s scope and identifying expansion opportunities. Highlight the overall market value, recent growth rates, and projections for future growth. For instance, the global floral industry has seen a steady increase due to rising disposable incomes and the growing popularity of flowers for various occasions.

Key Market Trends

Proceed to discuss recent market trends , such as the increasing consumer interest in personalized floral arrangements, sustainable and eco-friendly flowers, and online flower delivery services. For example, highlight the demand for bespoke floral designs for events like weddings and corporate functions, alongside the rising popularity of sustainably sourced flowers and biodegradable packaging.

Key Competitors

Then, consider the competitive landscape, which includes a range of florists from boutique flower shops to large online flower delivery services. For example, emphasize what makes your florist business distinctive, whether it’s through exceptional customer service, a unique range of exotic flowers, or specialization in specific types of floral arrangements. This section will help articulate the demand for florist services, the competitive environment, and how your florist business is positioned to thrive within this dynamic market.

Make sure to cover here _ Industry size & growth _ Key competitors _ Key market trends

Dive deeper into Key competitors

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for the florist business, highlighting Strengths (such as expert florists and a diverse product range), Weaknesses (including high operational costs or seasonal demand fluctuations), Opportunities (for example, the growing trend in eco-friendly products and online sales expansion), and Threats (such as economic downturns that may decrease consumer spending on non-essential items).

Marketing Plan

Next, develop a marketing strategy that outlines how to attract and retain customers through targeted advertising, promotional discounts, an engaging social media presence, and community involvement.

Finally, create a detailed timeline that outlines critical milestones for the florist business’s opening, marketing efforts, customer base growth, and expansion objectives, ensuring the business moves forward with clear direction and purpose.

Make sure to cover here _ SWOT _ Marketing Plan _ Timeline

Dive deeper into SWOT

Dive deeper into Marketing Plan

The Management section focuses on the florist business’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the florist business toward its financial and operational goals.

For your florist business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

Financial Plan

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your florist business’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your florist business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

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Here is a free business plan sample for a florist shop.

Have you been nurturing the idea of opening your own florist shop but feel overwhelmed about where to start?

In the following paragraphs, we will present to you a comprehensive business plan sample tailored for a florist business.

As you may already be aware, a detailed business plan is crucial for any entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the establishment and growth of your business, outlining your objectives, and detailing the strategies you will employ to achieve them.

To streamline the process and help you bloom into a successful florist entrepreneur, you can utilize our florist business plan template. Our team is also on standby to provide a free review and offer suggestions for improvement.

How to draft a great business plan for your florist shop?

A good business plan for a florist must cater to the unique aspects of the floral industry.

Initially, it's important to provide a comprehensive overview of the market. This includes up-to-date statistics and identifying emerging trends within the floral sector, similar to what we've outlined in our florist business plan template .

Your business plan should articulate your vision clearly. Define your target market (such as local residents, event planners, corporations, or wedding clients) and establish your florist shop's distinctive appeal (eco-friendly, exotic flowers, local sourcing, etc.).

Market analysis is the next critical component. This requires a thorough understanding of local competitors, market tendencies, and consumer preferences specific to the floral industry.

For a florist, it's imperative to detail the range of products you intend to offer. Describe your selection of flowers, arrangements, related gifts, and additional services, and explain how these cater to the desires and needs of your clientele.

The operational plan is equally vital. It should outline the location of your florist shop, the design of the retail space, supplier relationships for fresh flowers and materials, and the logistics of bouquet assembly and delivery.

As a florist, highlighting the quality and source of your flowers, arrangement artistry, and care in handling and delivery is crucial.

Then, delve into your marketing and sales strategy. How do you plan to attract and keep customers? Discuss promotional tactics, customer loyalty programs, and potential supplementary services (like floral workshops or corporate accounts).

Incorporating digital strategies, such as an e-commerce website or social media engagement, is also critical in the modern marketplace.

The financial framework is another fundamental section. This should encompass the initial investment, sales projections, ongoing expenses, and the point at which the business will break even.

In the floral industry, certain products may have slim margins, so precise planning and a solid grasp of your financials are essential. For assistance, consider using our financial forecast for a florist .

Compared to other business plans, a florist's plan must pay particular attention to the perishability of inventory, the seasonality of flower availability, and the timing of peak demand periods such as holidays and wedding seasons.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help you define your vision and strategies but also attract investors or secure loans.

Investors and lenders are looking for comprehensive market analysis, realistic financial projections, and a clear plan for day-to-day operations of a florist shop.

By presenting a thorough and substantiated plan, you showcase your dedication and preparedness for the success of your florist business.

To achieve these goals while saving time, you can simply fill out our florist business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a florist shop

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a florist .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The floristry industry is a vibrant and evolving market with significant economic presence.

As of recent estimates, the global flower and ornamental plant market reached a value of over 50 billion dollars. This market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by the increasing demand for fresh flowers, ornamental plants, and related services.

In the United States alone, there are over 30,000 florist businesses, contributing to an annual revenue of approximately 5 billion dollars for the industry.

These statistics underscore the integral role that florists play in American social and cultural events, as well as their substantial contribution to the economy.

The floristry industry is experiencing a wave of trends that reflect changing consumer preferences and societal values.

Eco-friendly and sustainable practices are becoming more prevalent, with customers showing a preference for locally sourced and organically grown flowers. This shift is leading to an increase in the use of biodegradable packaging and a reduction in the carbon footprint associated with flower transportation.

Personalization is another growing trend, as customers seek unique and customized floral arrangements for events and personal gifting.

Technology is also making its mark, with online flower delivery services expanding rapidly, offering convenience and a broad range of options for consumers.

Moreover, the use of social media for marketing has enabled florists to showcase their designs and reach a wider audience, while also providing inspiration for customers.

These trends highlight the dynamic nature of the floristry industry and its adaptation to the evolving demands of modern consumers.

Success Factors

Several factors contribute to the success of a florist business.

Foremost, the quality and freshness of flowers are paramount. Florists who provide vibrant, long-lasting blooms are more likely to develop a dedicated clientele.

Innovation in floral design, including the use of non-traditional plants and materials, can distinguish a florist in a crowded marketplace.

The location of the florist shop is also critical, as high-traffic areas can lead to increased visibility and sales.

Exceptional customer service is essential for building relationships and encouraging repeat business. Personal touches, such as remembering customer preferences and offering tailored advice, can make a significant difference.

Lastly, effective cost control, embracing sustainable practices, and the ability to adapt to industry trends, such as the rise of online ordering and delivery services, are crucial for the longevity and prosperity of a florist business.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our boutique florist shop project is designed to cater to the sophisticated tastes of customers seeking premium floral arrangements and related services. Ideally situated in a bustling urban area or within a high-end shopping district, our florist shop will offer a diverse selection of fresh-cut flowers, exotic plants, and bespoke bouquet services, all crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail.

We will emphasize the quality, beauty, and artistry of our floral arrangements to provide an unparalleled aesthetic experience.

Our florist shop aims to become a distinguished establishment known for its unique floral designs, contributing to the enhancement of our customers' special moments and everyday life.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our boutique florist shop project is centered around providing exquisite and artfully designed floral arrangements that cater to the discerning tastes of our customers.

Our dedication to quality, beauty, and personalized service offers a superior experience for those looking to express their emotions through the timeless gift of flowers.

We are committed to fostering an atmosphere of elegance and charm where customers can find the perfect expression for any occasion, and we aim to educate our customers about the language of flowers and the importance of sustainable floristry practices.

Our florist shop aspires to be a cornerstone in the community, offering a luxurious alternative to conventional flower shops and enhancing the lives of our customers through the beauty of flowers.

Project Owner

The project owner is a floral designer and entrepreneur with a profound appreciation for the art of floristry.

With a background in design and horticulture, as well as experience in luxury retail, they are poised to create a florist shop that stands out for its artistic flair, exceptional customer service, and commitment to sustainability.

Driven by a vision of beauty and a passion for floral art, they are determined to provide stunning arrangements that capture the essence of both modern trends and timeless elegance, all while contributing to the well-being of the environment and the local community.

Their dedication to excellence and their love for flowers are the heart of this project, aiming to bring joy and beauty to customers' lives through the power of sophisticated floral design.

The Market Study

Market segments.

The market segments for this specialized florist shop are divided into several categories.

First, there are individual customers who seek fresh flowers for personal occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or as a means to express emotions like love, sympathy, or congratulations.

Next, there are event planners and wedding coordinators who require floral arrangements for creating memorable and aesthetically pleasing events.

The market also includes corporate clients who need floral decorations for their offices, events, or as corporate gifts to employees and clients.

Finally, online shoppers represent a growing segment, as they look for the convenience of ordering flowers and gifts for delivery directly to recipients.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis of this florist shop project reveals several aspects.

Strengths include a deep knowledge of floral design, a commitment to customer service, and the ability to source a wide variety of fresh flowers.

Weaknesses could include the perishable nature of inventory and the challenge of maintaining flower freshness during delivery.

Opportunities lie in leveraging social media and online marketing to reach a broader audience, as well as in offering floral subscription services or workshops.

Finally, threats could include competition from supermarkets and online flower delivery services, as well as economic downturns affecting discretionary spending.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis in the florist industry reveals a mix of traditional brick-and-mortar flower shops, online flower delivery services, and supermarkets with floral departments.

These competitors vie for customers by offering convenience, price points, and a range of floral products.

Potential competitive advantages include superior floral arrangement design, personalized customer service, unique and exotic flower offerings, and a strong local brand presence.

Understanding competitors' strengths and weaknesses is crucial for carving out a niche in the market and for customer loyalty building.

Competitive Advantages

Our dedication to the artistry of floral arrangements sets us apart in the florist industry.

We offer a curated selection of high-quality flowers and plants, coupled with bespoke design services to cater to our customers' unique preferences and occasions.

Our focus on customer experience ensures that each interaction is personal and memorable, fostering a loyal customer base.

We also prioritize sustainability by sourcing locally grown flowers where possible and implementing eco-friendly practices in our operations.

You can also read our articles about: - how to open a florist shop: a complete guide - the customer segments of a florist shop - the competition study for a florist shop

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the boutique florist shop is designed to bloom beautifully and sustainably.

In the first year, we will concentrate on cultivating a loyal local clientele, emphasizing exceptional customer service, and creating a strong brand identity.

The second year will be focused on expanding our reach by establishing an online store and considering pop-up shops in high-footfall locations to increase visibility.

In the third year, we aim to diversify our offerings with a wider range of flowers and related products, and to form partnerships with event planners and corporate clients for steady growth.

Throughout this period, we will remain dedicated to the artistry of floral design, the freshness of our products, and the personal touch that sets us apart in the marketplace.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our florist shop targets customers seeking premium floral arrangements, gifts, and decor for various occasions.

Our value proposition lies in providing artistically crafted bouquets, exceptional customer experiences, and personalized services for events and special occasions.

We will sell our floral products through our physical shopfront and an online platform, utilizing our key resources such as skilled florists, a well-curated supply of fresh flowers, and a strong supply chain.

Key activities include floral design, customer service, and maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Our revenue streams will flow from the sales of floral arrangements, related gift items, and event decoration services, while our costs will be mainly associated with purchasing flowers, marketing, and maintaining our storefront.

Discover a complete and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is rooted in visual appeal and emotional connection.

We plan to showcase the beauty and quality of our arrangements through social media platforms, collaborations with influencers, and community events.

We will also offer floral arrangement workshops to engage with customers and create a community around our brand.

Partnerships with wedding planners, event coordinators, and local businesses will help us reach new customer segments.

Our promotional efforts will be complemented by a loyalty program and seasonal campaigns to keep our brand top-of-mind for all floral needs.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our florist shop is designed to mitigate risks associated with perishable goods, supply chain management, and market fluctuations.

We will implement strict inventory controls to ensure the freshness of our flowers and minimize waste.

Building strong relationships with a diverse group of suppliers will help us manage supply risks and ensure a consistent quality of products.

Prudent financial management and a flexible business model will allow us to adapt to changing market demands and economic conditions.

We will also secure insurance to protect against business interruptions and liability claims, ensuring that we can continue to delight our customers with minimal disruption.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are passionate about bringing the joy of flowers to people's lives and believe that our boutique florist shop will flourish in the hearts of our community.

With a focus on quality, creativity, and customer experience, we are poised to stand out in the floral industry.

We are excited to nurture our business and watch it grow, contributing to the happiness and well-being of our customers.

We are adaptable and ready to evolve our strategies to ensure the success and vibrancy of our florist shop.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a florist shop - the marketing strategy for a florist shop

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a florist and our financial plan for a florist .

Initial expenses for our florist shop include the cost of leasing a retail space, purchasing refrigeration units to keep flowers fresh, acquiring initial inventory of flowers and plants, designing and setting up the shop layout, and investing in marketing to attract customers to our new business. We will also need to consider the cost of obtaining any necessary licenses and insurance, as well as funds for staff training to ensure excellent customer service and knowledge about our floral products.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough analysis of the local market demand for floral products, taking into account factors such as seasonal events, weddings, funerals, and the general trend towards home and office beautification.

We expect sales to grow steadily as our florist shop becomes known in the community for its quality, variety, and creative floral arrangements.

The projected income statement reflects anticipated revenues from the sale of floral products and related services, the cost of goods sold (including flowers, supplies, and labor), and operating expenses (rent, marketing, salaries, utilities, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit that is essential for assessing the long-term viability of our florist business.

The projected balance sheet will display assets such as our inventory of flowers, leasehold improvements, and equipment, against liabilities including any loans and accounts payable.

It will provide a snapshot of the financial condition of our florist shop at the end of each fiscal period.

Our projected cash flow statement will detail the inflows from sales and outflows for expenses, giving us a clear picture of our financial position and helping us manage our cash to ensure we can meet our financial obligations at all times.

The projected financing plan outlines the sources of funding we intend to tap into to cover our initial setup costs and to support the business until it becomes self-sustaining.

The working capital requirement for our florist shop will be carefully managed to maintain sufficient liquidity for day-to-day operations, such as purchasing fresh flowers, maintaining inventory levels, and covering payroll.

The break-even analysis will show us the volume of sales we need to achieve to cover all our costs and begin generating a profit.

This will be a critical milestone for our business, indicating when it can be considered successful.

Key performance indicators for our florist shop will include the gross margin on floral arrangements, the inventory turnover rate to measure the efficiency of our stock management, and the customer satisfaction level to gauge the quality of our service and products.

Monitoring these indicators will help us ensure the financial health and success of our florist shop.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a florist shop .

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Florist Business Plan: the Ultimate Guide for 2024

Pro Business Plans

Last Updated: 12/17/2023

Are you looking to open a florist shop? As an aspiring entrepreneur in the floral industry, creating a successful business requires careful planning and preparation. A comprehensive florist business plan is essential for turning your vision into reality. It guides you in managing your business effectively and tracking your progress. In this article, we provide an overview of how to create a florist business plan, including tips and samples to get you started.

Why is a Florist Business Plan Important?

A florist business plan is a strategic tool to help ensure the success of your business. It outlines your goals, strategies to achieve them, and the resources required. Without a plan, you risk missing opportunities, making costly mistakes, or not meeting your goals. A business plan is critical for any new or growing florist shop. It provides a roadmap for the future, helping you stay focused and track progress. It also ensures your financial plans are realistic and you have enough resources to achieve your goals.

Need a Florist Business Plan? Create a custom business plan with financial projections and market research in minutes with ProAI’s business plan generator.

How to Write a Florist Business Plan

Writing a florist business plan is an important first step in starting your business. It should outline your goals, strategies, tactics, and financial projections for the next few years. To get started, here are the key sections to include in your florist business plan:

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary introduces your plan and should capture the reader’s attention. It provides an overview of your key goals, strategies, and financial projections. Common elements include:

•Mission statement: A short statement describing your business vision and purpose.

•Concept: A high-level overview of your business idea and competitive advantage.

•Execution: How you will implement your concept and key milestones.

•Costs and return on investment: Estimated costs to start and operate the business and projected profits.

•Competitor analysis: How your business differs from competitors.

The executive summary gives readers an overview of your plan and should entice them to read further. It should be clear, concise, and highlight the key elements of your plan.

2. Business Description

This section provides details about your business. Include:

•Business name, location, contact information, and owner details. Discuss the owner’s experience and qualifications.

•Industry overview: Discuss trends in the floral industry and how your business fits in.

•Business goals: Short and long-term goals and key milestones. Demonstrate your understanding of the industry.

•Legal structure: Business structure and licenses or permits required.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section evaluates your industry, customers, and competition. It should include:

3.1 Industry Analysis: Discuss your target market and why customers will choose your business. Provide data on industry trends and growth.

3.2 Competition Analysis: Research competitors to understand their offerings and strategies. Explain how you will differentiate your business. Discuss their pricing, products, location, marketing, and competitive advantage.

3.3 Marketing Analysis: Discuss how you will market your business to reach your target customers. Explain how your strategies will differ from competitors. Discuss the various methods you will use, such as social media, print advertising, your website, email campaigns, promotions, and discounts.

4. Products and Services

This section describes your product and service offerings. Include:

•A list of the types of flowers, arrangements, and other products you will sell. Highlight any unique offerings that set you apart.

•A pricing guide for your products and services. This helps investors evaluate your profit potential.

•Photographs of samples of your products and arrangements. This gives investors an understanding of the quality and style of your offerings.

5. Market Overview

The market overview section provides details about your industry and target market. Discuss:

•Relevant trends, customer demographics, and data on the floral industry. Explain why customers will choose your business.

•Regulations affecting the floral industry including licenses or permits required to operate. Discuss how these impact your business.

•Potential future opportunities and threats such as changes in styles or events that could impact sales. Explain how you will address them.

•Expected future growth and economic conditions that may impact your business.

6. Marketing Strategies

This section details how you will reach your target customers. Discuss both digital and traditional marketing strategies, such as:

•Your website, social media profiles, and email newsletters. Explain how you will use them to build brand awareness and engage customers.

•Print advertising in local publications, signage, flyers, coupons, and radio spots. Discuss placement and frequency.

•Partnerships with local businesses, sponsorships of community events, and participation in business organizations. Explain how they will help you reach new customers.

•Media outreach to local newspapers, TV stations, magazines, and bloggers. Discuss your plans for press releases, media kits, and building relationships with key media contacts.

•Pricing strategies including discounts, promotions, seasonal specials, and loyalty programs. Explain how your pricing remains competitive while maximizing profits.

Discuss how you will measure and track the success of your campaigns through website traffic, social media engagement, email open rates, and sales. Explain how you will adjust your strategies based on the results.

7. Operational Support

Discuss any outside professional services you require to operate your business, such as:

•Website development and design. Explain the purpose and cost of your website.

•Photography services to shoot high quality images of your products and arrangements. Discuss how these images will be used in your marketing campaigns.

•Copywriting services for website content, blog posts, social media updates, advertisements, and other marketing materials. Discuss the key messages you want to convey about your business.

•Accounting and legal services. Briefly describe the scope of work and associated costs.

Discuss why you are outsourcing these services rather than handling them internally. Explain how they will support the growth and success of your business.

8. Financial Analysis

A financial analysis shows the viability and profit potential of your business. It should include:

•Income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and key metrics and ratios for the next 3 years. Discuss the assumptions and factors that will impact your projections.

•The start-up costs to open your business and operating expenses. Provide data on rent, payroll, inventory, utilities, and other costs. Discuss how you will finance these costs.

•Your funding requirements if seeking investor financing or loans. Discuss how additional funding will help your business reach key milestones and become self-sustaining.

•Strategies to boost revenue and profits such as pursuing corporate accounts, seasonal price increases, expansion into new products, or opening additional locations. Discuss timelines and financial impact.

•Financial controls and standards used to track revenue, costs, inventory, accounts receivable, and other metrics. Discuss how you will measure your financial performance and growth.

9. Risk Analysis

A risk analysis discusses potential risks that could impact your business’s success and how you will address them. Consider risks such as:

•Industry risks like competitive new entrants, changes in customer tastes, supply costs, or regulations. Discuss strategies to mitigate risk.

•Operational risks such as employee turnover, data breaches, technology failures, or loss of a key customer. Explain prevention and contingency plans.

•Financial risks including lack of access to capital, excessive costs, or late customer payments. Discuss solutions for alternative funding or expense reductions.

•Environmental or market risks like a recession, natural disaster, or global crisis. Explain how you would respond and maintain business continuity.

Also discuss potential opportunities such as expanding into new products or markets, pursuing franchising or licensing deals, or obtaining a major new customer or retail partnership. Explain how you would take advantage of these opportunities.

A risk analysis shows how you have considered potential threats and demonstrates your ability to navigate challenges — giving investors confidence in your business. Discussing risk in a balanced, thoughtful manner highlights your preparation and judgment as a business owner.

Florist Financial Forecasts

Startup expenses, monthly operating expenses, revenue forecast.

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How to Write a Flower Shop Business Plan [Sample Template]

Are you about starting a flower shop? If YES, here is a complete sample flower shop business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE . If you have eyes for colors and designs, as well as have a penchant for beauty, then you may want to tinker with starting your own Flower Shop. The market for both fresh flowers and artificial flower has continued to soar from generation to generation. This is as long as we still have weddings, burials and other special events taking place all around us.

Why Start a Flower Shop?

Fact remains that as insignificant as most people think flower is, it is still a major requirement for weddings (Bouquet for the brides), burial designs (wreath), love gathering and design and decoration of event centers and even worship centers.

No doubt if you are interested in making brides happy on their wedding day or adding colors to people’s events, then you should consider starting your own flower shop. It is indeed a profitable venture especially if you know how to roll with big – time events and wedding planners.

One beauty about this kind of business is that you could decide to specialize in either artificial flowers or natural flowers and also you can decide to specialize in both. With natural flower, you can even start by growing them in a garden in your compound if you have enough space and also you can order your artificial flowers and flower pots directly from the manufacturer at a cheaper rate if you know how to bargain.

A Sample Flower Shop Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

A flower shop is a place where flowers are retailed. The florist industry or flower shops basically retail cut flowers, floral arrangements, potted plants and artificial flowers. Industry operators purchase these goods from domestic and international flower farms and wholesalers, and then sell them to the general public. This industry excludes operators that primarily function as electronic shopping websites and mail-order companies.

The Florists industry has been on a downward movement over the last five years. Bad economic conditions during the recession period reduced disposable income, dissuading households from making discretionary purchases on flowers and plants.

So also, intensified competition has worsened declining demand; discounted prices for comparable goods online and in supermarkets have led consumers to buy fewer flowers from traditional flower shop. The Florist industry is a thriving sector of the economy of the united states which generates a whooping sum of well over billion annually from more than 35,343 outlets scattered all around the United States of America.

The industry is responsible for the employment of well over 83,208 people. Experts project the florist industry to grow at a 1.4 percent annual rate. No single florist store can boast of having a lion market share in the industry. The Florists industry has minimal barriers to entry, with low start – up capital and no specific licensing requirements.

The majority of flower shops operate as non – employers and the capital costs of establishing retail outlets are not substantial relative to many other retail industries, such as department stores. On the other hand, the high level of competition and market saturation in a declining industry can prove challenging to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start their own flower shop – business.

Most players in the florist industry are small- to medium-size establishments that cater to the local community. With this kind of business, if you want to start on a small scale, you can choose to start it as a part time business from your home. All you would need is contacts, business cards and your catalogue.

However, if you intend starting it as a full – time business person, then you should consider renting a shop in an area that is prone to high human and vehicular traffic. The good thing about ensuring that your flower shop is visible to all is so that people may easily walk into your shop to make enquiries even if they aren’t buying at that moment. With that you will be able to build your potential client list that you can use for marketing purpose.

Over and above, the florist industry / flower shop is a profitable industry and it is open for any aspiring entrepreneur to come in and establish his or her business; you can chose to start on a small scale in a street corner like the average mom and pop business or you can chose to start on a large scale with several outlets in key cities.

2. Executive Summary

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LCC is a standard and registered flower shop business that will be located in one of the busiest roads in Orlando, Florida. We have been able to lease a facility along a major road that is big enough to fit into the design of the kind of flower shop that we intend launching and the facility is located in a corner piece directly opposite the largest residential estate in Orlando, Florida.

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LCC will be involved in the production / cultivation, commerce and trade of flowers. Our product and services encompasses flower care and handling, floral design or flower arranging, merchandising, and display and flower delivery. We will also sell bulk flowers and related supplies to professionals in the trade.

We are aware that there are several large and small flower shops all around Orlando – Florida, which is why we spent time and resources to conduct our feasibility studies and market survey so as to offer much more than our competitors will be offering. We have self – service options for our customers, and our outlet is well secured with the various payment of options.

Much more than retailing cut flowers, retailing of fresh and artificial flowers, retailing floral arrangements, retailing potted plants and retailing complimentary gift items , our customer care will be second to none in the whole of Orlando, Florida.

We know that our customers are the reason why we are in business which is why we will go the extra mile to get them satisfied when they visit our flower and also to become our loyal customers and ambassadors. Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LCC will ensure that all our customers are given first class treatment whenever they visit our flower shop.

We have a CRM software that will enable us manage a one on one relationship with our customers no matter how large the numbers of our customers’ base may grow to. We will ensure that we get our customers involved when making some business decisions that directly affect them.

We are aware of the trend in the retail / florist industry and we are not only going to operate a system where our customers would have to come to our flower shop to make purchase or whatever they want but we will also operate an online store and our customers can order flowers and related merchandize online and they will get it delivered to their houses or any location they want us to deliver the goods to within Orlando.

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LCC is a family business that is owned by Bernie Vandross and Family. Bernie Vandross is florist per excellence; he has a B.Sc. in Business Administration, with well over 15 years of experience in the florist and retailing industry, working for some of the leading brand in the United States.

Although the business is launching out with just one outlet in Orlando – Florida, but there is a plan to open other outlets all around Florida and perhaps in other key cities in the United States of America.

3. Our Products and Services

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LCC is in the florist industry / flower shop line of business to make profits and we will ensure we go all the way to make available a wide range of flowers both natural and artificial and other related merchandize to our clients.

Our product and service offerings are listed below;

• Retailing cut flowers
• Retailing of fresh and artificial flowers
• Retailing floral arrangements
• Retailing potted plants
• Retailing complimentary gift items

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to become the leading flower shop – brand in the florist industry in Florida and to establish a one stop flower shop in Orlando and in other cities in Florida.
• Our mission is to establish a flower shop business that will make available a wide range of both fresh / natural and artificial flowers at affordable prices to the residence of Orlando, Florida and other cities in Florida where we intend opening of chains of flower shops.

Our Business Structure

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LCC do not intend to start a flower shop business like the usual mom and pop business around the street corner; our intention of starting a flower shop business is to build a standard and one stop flower shop in Orlando, Florida.

Although our flower shop business might not be as big as other related business that are into retailing, but will ensure that we put the right structure in place that will support the kind of growth that we have in mind while setting up the business.

We will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, honest, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of ten years or more. In view of that, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Shop Manager
• Human Resources and Admin Manager

Merchandize Manager

Sales and Marketing Manager

Information Technologist

• Accountants / Cashiers
• Customer Services Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO (Chief Florist):

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Shop Manager:

• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the store
• Ensures that proper records of goods are kept and our racks and warehouse does not run out of products
• Ensures that the store facility is in tip top shape and goods are properly arranged and easy to locate
• Interfaces with third – party suppliers (vendors)
• Controls goods distribution and supply inventory
• Supervises the workforce
• Responsible for retailing cut flowers
• Responsible for retailing of fresh and artificial flowers
• Responsible for retailing floral arrangements
• Responsible for retailing potted plants
• Responsible for retailing complimentary gift items
• Manages vendor relations, market visits, and the ongoing education and development of the organizations’ buying teams
• Helps to ensure consistent quality of both natural and artificial flowers in our shop
• Responsible for the purchase of flowers and related products for the organizations
• Responsible for planning sales, monitoring inventory, selecting the merchandise, and writing and pricing orders to vendors
• Ensures that the organization operates within stipulated budget.
• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the company
• Manages the organization website
• Handles ecommerce aspect of the business
• Responsible for installing and maintenance of computer software and hardware for the organization
• Manages logistics and supply chain software, Web servers, e-commerce software and POS (point of sale) systems
• Manages the organization’s CCTV
• Handles any other technological and IT related duties.

Accountant / Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Client Service Executive

• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with customers on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the human resources and admin manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to customers when they make enquiries
• Responsible for cleaning the shop facility at all times
• Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Cleans both the interior and exterior of the store facility
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the shop manager.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of starting just one outlet of our flower shop in Orlando, Florida is to test run the business for a period of 2  to 5 years to know if we will invest more money, expand the business and then open other outlets all over Florida.

We are quite aware that there are several Supermarket who retail flowers and flower shops all over Orlando and even in the same location where we intend locating ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business.

We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be welled equipped to confront our threats.

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC employed the services of an expert HR and Business Analyst with bias in retailing to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives.

This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC;

Our location, the business model we will be operating on (physical flower shop and online flower store), varieties of payment options, wide range of flowers and related products and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a strong strength for Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC.

A major weakness that may count against us is the fact that we are a new flower shop – business and we don’t have the financial capacity to compete with multi – billion dollars supermarkets who are into retailing of flowers and other big – term florist companies who are into mass production of flowers and related products when it comes to retailing at a rock bottom prices for all their goods.

• Opportunities:

The fact that we are going to be operating our flower shop in one of the busiest streets in Orlando, Florida provides us with unlimited opportunities to sell our flowers and related products to a large number of people. We have been able to conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we know what our potential clients will be looking for when they visit our flower shop; we are well positioned to take on the opportunities that will come our way.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new supermarket that is into retailing flowers and other flower shops in same location where ours is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

In this era when the online community is growing rapidly, you would do your business a whole lot of favor if you create your own online presence. One of the easiest ways to get people to see you as an expert in your line of business is to blog constantly about flowers. You may also want to leverage on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, and others to publicize your flower business.

You can as well go ahead to open an online flower shop where people can order flowers for their special occasion from your shop. You must ensure that your delivery system (shipping) is efficient if you intend to do well with your online flower shop.

You might not have all the designs and color combination of your flower per time in your shop, but one smart thing you may do for your business is to prepare a comprehensive catalogue that contains all form of flower designs.

Your catalog should be your number one marketing tool so you must ensure that it is well designed and of high quality. You should be ready to always update your catalog when you have new designs – that is where your graphics skills will come in handy.

Another key factor that could help you grow your business fast is to leverage on existing platforms. You can join a florist association in your area, as well as can with wedding and event planners in your area. Better yet, you can also work with caskets seller too. If you are in good business relationship with all these people mentioned, then you can be rest assured that your business will grow in within a short period of time.

8. Our Target Market

There are loads of people who can’t do without flowers either natural or artificial flower and there are loads of functions such as wedding ceremonies, burial ceremonies and many other events. This goes to show that if a flower shop is well positioned, they will continue to sell their products to a wide range of clients on a regular basis.

In view of that, we have positioned our flower shop to service the residence of Orlando, Florida and every other location our flower shop will be located in key cities all over Florida. We have conducted our market research and we have ideas of what our target market would be expecting from us. We are in business to retail a wide range of flowers and related merchandize to the following groups of people;

• Event Planners
• Churches and other religious centers
• Funeral Homes
• Bachelors and Spinsters
• Corporate Executives
• Business People
• About to wed couples
• Expectant Mothers
• Sports Men and Women

Our Competitive Advantage

A close study of the florist industry reveals that the market has become much more intensely competitive over the last decade. As a matter of fact, you have to be highly creative, customer centric and proactive if you must survive in this industry. We are aware of the stiffer competition and we are well prepared to compete favorably with flower shops and other leading supermarkets that are into retailing of flowers in Orlando, Florida.

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC is launching a standard flower shop that will indeed become the preferred choice of residence of Orlando, Florida. Our flower shop is located in a corner piece property on a busy road directly opposite one of the largest residential estates in Orlando, Florida. We have enough parking space that can accommodate well over 20 cars per time.

One thing is certain, we will ensure that we have a wide range of flowers both natural and artificial and related products available in our shop at all times. It will be difficult for customers to visit our flower shop and not make a purchase of flowers or other related products.

One of our business goals is to make Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC a one stop flower shop. Our excellent customer service culture, online store, various payment options and highly secured facility will serve as a competitive advantage for us.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups flower shops) in the florist industry, meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives. We will also give good working conditions and commissions to freelance sales agents that we will recruit from time to time.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC is in business to retail a wide range of flowers (both natural and artificial) and related products to the residence of Orlando, Florida. We are in the florist industry to maximize profits and we are going to go all the way out to ensure that we achieve or business goals and objectives.

In essence, our source of income will be the retailing of a wide range of flowers and other related products at affordable prices. We will generate income by;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain when it comes to flower shop business, if your shop is well stocked and centrally positioned, you will always attract customers cum sales and that will sure translate to increase in revenue generation for the business.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Orlando, Florida and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow the business and our clientele base.

We have been able to critically examine the florist industry / flower shop line of business and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to startups in Orlando, Florida.

Below is the sales projection for Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC, it is based on the location of our business and other factors as it relates to flower shop start – ups in the United States;

• First Fiscal Year-: $50,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $150,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $450,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same products and customer care services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Before choosing a location for Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC, we conduct a thorough market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to be able to be able to penetrate the available market and become the preferred choice for residence of Orlando, Florida. We have detailed information and data that we were able to utilize to structure our business to attract the numbers of customers we want to attract per time.

We hired experts who have good understanding of the florist industry / flower shop line of business to help us develop marketing strategies that will help us achieve our business goal of winning a larger percentage of the available market in Orlando.

In other to continue to be in business and grow, we must continue to sell the flowers and related products that are available in our shop which is why we will go all out to empower or sales and marketing team to deliver. In summary, Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;

• Open our flower shop in a grand style with a party for all.
• Introduce our flower shop business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to organizations, religious centers, funeral homes, event planners, households and key stake holders in Orlando, Florida
• Ensure that we have a wide range of flowers (natural and artificial) and other related merchandize in our shop at all times.
• Make use of attractive hand bills to create awareness and also to give direction to our flower shop
• Position our signage / flexi banners at strategic places around Orlando
• Position our greeters to welcome and direct potential customers
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our regular customers
• Engage on road shows within our neighborhood to create awareness for our flower shop.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Despite the fact that our flower shop is well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. We are going to explore all available means to promote Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC. Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC has a long term plan of opening outlets in various locations all around Florida which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Orlando before venturing out.

As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC;

• Place adverts on community based newspapers, radio stations and TV stations.
• Encourage the use of word of mouth publicity from our loyal customers
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook ,Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Badoo, Google+  and other platforms to promote our business.
• Ensure that our we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Orlando, Florida
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in and around our neighborhood
• Contact corporate organizations, households, religious centers, funeral homes and event planners et al by calling them up and informing them of Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC and the products we sell
• Advertise Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC business in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site
• Brand all our official cars and vans and ensure that all our staff members and management staff wears our branded shirt or cap at regular intervals.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Pricing is one of the key factors that gives leverage to retailers and flower shops, it is normal for consumers to go to places (flower shops) where they can get flowers and related merchandize at cheaper price which is why big player in the florist industry will continue to attract loads of consumers. Products in their store are tagged with the cheapest price you can get anywhere in the United States.

We know we don’t have the capacity to compete with bigger and well – established flower shops, but we will ensure that the prices of all the products that are available in our flower shop are competitive with what is obtainable amongst flower shops within our level.

We are aware that there are contracts for flower supply by government, sports organizations or big religious organization; we will ensure that we abide by the bidding pricing template when we bid for such contracts.

• Payment Options

At Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC, Our payment policy is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that will be available in every of our outlets;

• Payment by cash
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
• Payment via Mobile money
• Payment with check from loyal customers

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our payment plans without any itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business.

The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked. As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a flower shop business; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. This is the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital;

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in Orlando, Florida – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $3,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Peak Lane Grocery Store, Inc. in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• Cost for hiring Consultant – $2,500.
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• Cost for payment of rent for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $105,600.
• Cost for Shop remodeling (construction of racks and shelves) – $20,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ($2,500).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for Start-up inventory (stocking with a wide range of flowers (both natural and artificial, flower pots, and other related merchandize) – $100,000
• Cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• Cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs: $5,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website: $600
• The cost for our opening party: $5,000
• Miscellaneous: $5,000

We would need an estimate of $250,000 to successfully set up our grocery store in Orlando, Florida. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all the staff for the first month of operation.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC is a private business that is solely owned and financed by Bernie Vandross and family. They do not intend to welcome any external business partners, which is why he has decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital to 3 major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $70,000 and soft loan from family members $30,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and document have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to retail our flowers, flower pots and other related merchandize a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Natures Delight™ Flower Shop, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Leasing of facility and remodeling the shop: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Compilation of our list of products that will be available in our shop: Completed
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – suppliers of flowers, flower pots and related merchandize – In Progress

More on Wholesale & Retail

Flower Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Flower Shop Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their flower shop companies. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a flower shop business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Flower Shop Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your flower shop business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Flower Shop

If you’re looking to start a flower shop business or grow your existing flower shop company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your flower shop business to improve your chances of success. Your flower shop business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Flower Shop Businesses

With regard to funding, the main sources of funding for a flower shop business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for flower shop companies.

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How to write a business plan for a flower shop business.

If you want to start a flower shop business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your flower shop business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of flower shop business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a flower shop business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of flower shop businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the flower shop industry.
• Discuss the type of flower shop business you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of flower shop business you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of flower shop businesses:

• Retail Flower Shop : this type of flower shop is located in a retail location as part of a  shopping mall, store, or is housed in a stand-alone building. Customers served are typically from the local residential and business areas, with a high rate of repeat customer business. Flower delivery is usually offered at an additional cost.
• In-Store & Online Flower Shop: this type of flower shop supplies flower arrangements in various formats for both walk-in or call-in retail customers and, additionally, serves online retail customers. Pricing for flower arrangements is congruent in both types of sales; however, delivery charges vary according to the type of delivery required.
• Online-Only Flower Shop : As the name suggests, this type of flower shop is concentrated on the primary website of the business and offers numerous floral arrangements created and delivered to customers who order online. No services exist for walk-in or call-in customers and there is no store location.
• Mobile Flower Cart : Customers of a mobile flower cart include those who work in businesses or frequent busy city districts. Mobile flower carts typically carry floral bouquets wrapped in paper or loose arrangements rather than formal floral arrangements that  include vases.

In addition to explaining the type of flower shop business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of flower shop customers served, the number of deliveries made, reaching X number of mobile flower carts, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the flower shop industry. While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the flower shop industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your florist business plan:

• How big is the flower shop industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your flower shop business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your flower shop business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, wedding parties, families and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of flower shop business you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other flower shop businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes grocery stores selling loose flowers, flower farms, or wholesale flower markets. You need to mention direct competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of flower shop business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regard to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide packages for wedding floral arrangements?
• Will you offer preferred customer discounts that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer floral arrangements for all budgets?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a florist business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of flower shop company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide floral arrangements for weddings, funerals, social gatherings and corporate events?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your flower shop company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your flower shop business located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone office, or purely online? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your flower shop marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your flower shop business, including answering calls, building floral arrangements and delivering them, billing corporate accounts, or restocking your mobile flower cart daily, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sell you Xth floral arrangement, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your mobile flower carts to reach your entire city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your flower shop business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing flower shop businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a flower shop business or successfully running a small gift shop.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you sell 50 floral arrangements per day, and/or contract with corporations for monthly floral services? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your flower shop business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a flower shop business:

• Cost of equipment and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or a list of corporations interested in long-term contracts for floral services.

Writing a business plan for your flower shop business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the flower shop industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful flower shop business.

Flower Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my flower shop business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your flower shop business plan.

How Do You Start a Flower Shop Business?

Starting a Flower Shop business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Flower Shop Business
• Create Your Flower Shop Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Flower Shop Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Flower Shop Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Flower Shop Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Flower Shop Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Flower Shop Business Equipment
• Develop Your Flower Shop Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Flower Shop Business
• Open for Business

Learn more about how to start your own flower shop business .

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

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How To Be A Florist in Malaysia: Comprehensive Guide

How to be a florist in Malaysia? Dive into the vibrant world of flowers in Malaysia! Discover the steps, tips, and a sprinkle of humor on how to become a successful florist in the heart of Southeast Asia.

Introduction

So, you’ve decided to dive into the world of flowers and become a florist in Malaysia? Great choice! Malaysia, with its tropical climate, offers a plethora of exotic flowers waiting to be arranged into beautiful bouquets. But, before you start plucking those petals, let’s guide you through the steps (with a touch of humor) to ensure your florist journey is as fragrant as a fresh rose.

How to Be a Florist in Malaysia?

1. understand the basics of floristry.

Floristry isn’t just about arranging flowers . It’s an art, a science, and sometimes, a test of patience (especially when a petal refuses to sit right). Here’s what you need to know:

• Flower Types: From roses to orchids, Malaysia has them all. Familiarize yourself with local and imported flowers.
• Arrangement Techniques: Learn the basics of creating bouquets, centerpieces, and more.
• Flower Care: Flowers are delicate. Know how to keep them fresh and vibrant.

2. Get the Right Education

No, you don’t need a PhD in Petals, but a course or two can help. Look for:

• Local Floristry Schools: Malaysia has several institutions offering courses in floristry.
• Online Courses: Can’t attend a physical class? No worries! There are numerous online platforms offering floristry courses.

3. Gain Experience

Before you jump into the business, it’s wise to work under an experienced florist. Think of it as an internship but with more thorns and less coffee-fetching.

4. Set Up Your Shop

Once you’re ready, it’s time to set up your shop. Choose a location with good foot traffic, preferably near other complementary businesses like gift shops or cafes. And remember, a shop with a view of the sea might sound romantic, but flowers and saltwater? Not the best combo!

5. Market Your Business

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial. Set up a website, be active on social media, and maybe even start a blog about flower care tips. Who knows, you might become the next floral influencer!

6. Keep Learning

The world of flowers is ever-evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends, attend workshops, and always be open to learning.

Cultivating Passion for Floristry

Floristry isn’t just about knowing your roses from your daisies. It’s about understanding the language of flowers and using them to convey emotions, stories, and messages.

The History of Floristry: A Petal Back in Time

Did you know that the ancient Egyptians were some of the first people to use flowers for decorative purposes? Yep, while they were busy building pyramids, they also took time to appreciate the beauty of nature. And let’s not forget the Victorians, who practically invented the art of sending secret messages through bouquets. Talk about old-school texting!

Why Floristry?

• Creativity Unleashed: Every bouquet is a blank canvas waiting for your artistic touch.
• Nature Connection: It’s like being a part of Mother Nature’s design team.
• Emotional Satisfaction: There’s nothing like seeing someone’s face light up when you hand them a bouquet you’ve crafted.

Getting Started: Tools of the Trade

• Floral Scissors: Not your regular kitchen scissors. These are specially designed to cut through stems without causing damage.
• Floral Foam: It’s like a mattress for your flowers. Keeps them in place and hydrated.
• Vases & Containers: From classic glass vases to rustic wooden crates, the options are endless.

The Funny Side of Floristry

Ever heard of the flower that got into trouble? It was uprooted! Jokes aside, floristry has its quirks. Like the time when a florist was asked for a bouquet of Wi-Fi signals (true story) or when someone wanted a bouquet that smelled like freshly baked cookies. Ah, the joys of customer requests!

Navigating Challenges in the Florist Industry

The florist industry is a delicate dance of artistry, nature, and business acumen. While the fragrant world of blooms offers immense beauty and joy, it’s not without its thorns. This article will delve into the intricacies of the florist industry, focusing on two pivotal challenges: Seasonal Fluctuations and Trends, and Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices.

Seasonal Fluctuations and Trends

1. preparing for high and low seasons.

In the world of flowers, seasons dictate more than just weather patterns. High seasons, marked by holidays like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day , surge with demand, leading to frenzied activity. Low seasons, on the other hand, can be as challenging as a stubborn bud refusing to bloom.

Adaptability is the florist’s greatest asset. Preparing for high seasons involves meticulous planning, ensuring an ample supply of popular blooms and adequate staffing levels. The key lies in forecasting trends and customer preferences. By studying historical data and keeping a keen eye on emerging floral trends, florists can preemptively stock up on the blooms that will steal hearts.

During low seasons, creativity takes the lead. Florists can explore unique arrangements, offer special promotions, or even diversify their offerings by incorporating dried flowers or plants. By proactively addressing the ebb and flow of seasons, florists can thrive year-round.

2. Adapting to Changing Floral Preferences

Floral preferences, much like fashion, are subject to trends. What was in vogue yesterday might wilt in popularity tomorrow. Staying attuned to these shifts requires an acute sense of market dynamics.

Diversity is the watchword here. A well-rounded inventory that encompasses both timeless classics and trendy novelties ensures that a florist caters to a broad spectrum of tastes. Additionally, engaging with customers and seeking their feedback can offer invaluable insights into emerging preferences.

Moreover, florists can tap into the power of social media platforms to showcase their creations and draw inspiration from global trends. By striking a balance between tradition and innovation, a florist can remain a trendsetter rather than a trendfollower.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

1. implementing environmentally conscious strategies.

In an era of heightened environmental consciousness, florists are called to be stewards of nature. Implementing sustainable practices isn’t just a choice; it’s an imperative.

Local Sourcing emerges as a cornerstone of sustainability. By procuring blooms from local growers, florists reduce their carbon footprint and support the community. Embracing eco-friendly packaging options and minimizing waste further underscores a commitment to the planet.

Exploring alternative floral materials like dried flowers, preserved blooms, or potted plants can significantly reduce the environmental impact of traditional cut flowers. By adopting these practices, florists not only contribute to a healthier planet but also resonate with eco-conscious consumers.

2. Educating Customers on Sustainable Choices

Education is the bridge that connects florists with conscientious consumers. Transparently sharing information about sustainable practices, the origin of flowers, and the benefits of eco-friendly choices empowers customers to make informed decisions.

Workshops and Seminars can be a powerful tool for educating customers. These events provide a platform to discuss the importance of sustainability and demonstrate how it’s woven into every petal and leaf. Furthermore, using labels or signage to indicate eco-friendly products communicates a clear message to environmentally aware clientele.

FAQ’s

Formal qualifications are not a prerequisite for entering the world of floristry. However, there exists a diverse array of courses designed to expand your expertise in this field. You have the option to pursue floristry education at various colleges nationwide, starting from a beginner’s Level 1 Diploma and progressing all the way to an advanced Level 5 certification.

Operating a flower business has the potential to be a lucrative venture. As you grasp the intricacies of pricing, appreciate the importance of cost management, acquire marketing skills, and excel in sales, you’ll begin to notice a substantial increase in your financial gains. Your bank account will reflect the fruits of your efforts.

This specialized Honours Degree is tailored for students who have successfully finished the Foundation Degree in Professional Floristry and Floral Design, or an equivalent HND program in a design-related field. This course aims to enhance your proficiency in floral design, all the while fostering your unique creative growth and expression.

If you’re beginning without any prior experience, it’s essential to commence by acquiring a set of design skills. This can be achieved by attending flower classes and workshops. Additionally, consider opportunities like volunteering, interning, or freelancing (which will be elaborated on in step 3). It’s worth noting that these steps can be pursued concurrently.

Throughout my journey, I’ve come to understand that the process is an integral part of every accomplished designer’s narrative. Essentially, we all evolve into being ‘self-taught’ florists. Our design growth entails absorbing knowledge from our teachers and mentors, applying it, modifying it, and ultimately, infusing it with our unique touch. This transformation is where our individuality truly shines through.

Embarking on a florist career in Malaysia is a blossoming opportunity for those with a passion for flowers and design. To become a successful florist in Malaysia , one should start by gaining foundational knowledge through courses or hands-on experience. Building a strong portfolio, honing floral arrangement skills, and understanding the local market trends are crucial steps. Furthermore, embracing sustainable practices and fostering creativity can set you apart in this vibrant industry. Remember, being a florist is not just a profession; it’s an art that allows you to bring beauty and joy to people’s lives through the language of flowers. So, with dedication, continuous learning, and a touch of artistic flair, you can flourish as a florist in Malaysia.

About author

About Author

Muhammad talha.

Muhammad Talha is a New Emerging Talent in the industry of SEO and digital marketing. With more than 6 years of successful experience in areas of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Market Research, Website Development (WordPress) & Graphic Designing. Muhammad Talha has earned great name in executing projects involving Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Social Media Optimization (SMO) and App Store Optimization.

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Flower Shop Business Plan Sample

Published Jun.09, 2018

Updated Apr.23, 2024

By: Cynthia Turner

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 4

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Table of Content

Florist business plans for your own flower business

Are you planning to starting a flower shop business ? Floriculture is profitable business to venture in when planned properly. The history of floriculture industry began back in 1800 in England where flowers were grown on large scale on estates. Today, growing of flowers as greatly changed and have been embraced by many people across the world. For instance, in 1950s the flower growers in the United States was less than US $3billion. In 1992, this figure had increased to US$100 billion. In 2003, the global trade for flowers had tremendously increased to US$101 billion. According to reliable sources, the floral industry grows more than six percent annually. Venturing into the floral industry is definitely a great idea, but it needs proper planning and finances to make in the flower shop business plan . With this flower shop business plan, you will have a clear picture on what it required of you to succeed in the industry. Flowers are loved by many and with the right customer target, you are in for business.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

The flower shop will be registered using the name Kate’s Blossoms and will be situated in Seattle, Washington. The shop will be owned and managed by Kate Spencer who is an experienced florist.

2.2 Management Team

Kate Spencer owner and manager of Kate’s Blossoms is an expert florist who has worked extensively in the flower industry for over a decade. During her career, Kate worked for high profile and flower shops across United States. Considering her extensive, it wasn’t difficult for her to open a flower shop business .

2.3 Customer Focus

Before beginning a flower shop, it is essential to have an in-depth understanding of your flower market and statistics. Kate’s Blossoms plans to set up its shop in a strategic location with plenty of people traffic. Customers are anyone who is a flower enthusiast or keen on purchasing some flowers for different reasons.

2.4 Business Target

Prior to s tarting a flower shop business , Kate went through a couple of flower shop business ideas , so as to make the right decision. Kate’s Blossoms intends to offer different types of flowers for various occasions to a wide range of customers visiting the shop. Kates’s Blossoms plans to find a creative marketing approach to survive competition and get good market.

Florist Business – Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Kate Spencer is an experienced florist specialist with a successful career journey in the flower industry. She has also majored in flower farming and attained excellent floral certification in her career. Having worked for various famous shops and companies across the United States, she has an immense understanding of the procedures required for starting a flower shop business . With this experience and knowledge, Kate is positive that the launching of the flower shop with go as planned and customers will start visiting the shop soon to make purchases.

3.2 Aim of Starting the Business

The modern society presenting flowers as a gift to friends and loved ones has become a tradition and for this reason, the demand for flowers has gone up. The fact that flowers are beautiful and yet affordable, is the reason why many people prefer using them for expression. With the flower trend as a tradition across the United States, Kate thought it was the right time for starting a flower shop business  to address market needs.

3.3 How the Business will be Started

With over 10 years’ experience in the flower industry, Kate Spencer enjoys a massive experience in the industry. For this reason, she has a keen understanding on what it required to start the flower business. After carefully studying local flower shop market trends, Kate has worked closely with experts to come up with a comprehensive financial analysis. In addition, she has invested to have an in depth flower shop business plan that will cover all sectors required to set up the floral shop. A good marketing plan will be greatly helpful to market the business to reach as many people as possible in Seattle, Washington and across the United States.

Most flower shops aim at providing a wide range of flower products and services.

A Floral Services for Customers

Unlike small flower shops who only sell flowers to individuals, Kate’s Blossoms floral shop will focus on availing flower products and related services to different types of people and go a step further to offer customized flowers in accordance to customer preferences. Kate’s Blossoms intends to provide a wide variety of floral services to different customers. When planning on opening a flower shop business , you should survey the market and determine what customers are looking for. In this case, Kate’s Blossoms intends to offer the following products at its Seattle floral shop:

• Offer bouquets with flower arrangements to make each occasion memorable.
• Offer floral settings and table setting, wedding receptions, corporate events and ceremony venues.
• Provide floral consultation services to help a customer choose the flowers that complement the theme and style of their occasion.
• Offer exquisite floral arrangement for the perfect finish.

To open a flower shop and make it successful depends on the creativity and diversifying consumer products. This is why it’s essential to come up with a realistic and competitive florist business plan .

Operational and Strategic Planning

Marketing analysis of florist businesses, excellent work.

excellent work, competent advice. Alex is very friendly, great communication. 100% I recommend CGS capital. Thank you so much for your hard work!

The flower industry is raking in impressive numbers and for this reason, businesses venturing into the industry are witnessing fast growth and high profitability. However, when coming up with a business plan for flower shop , it’s essential to do your homework well. With each passing day, new flower shops continue to emerge in Settle, Washington. Understanding your local market is key to give you intimate knowledge of local trends. Many floral shops are working hard to meet the growing demand for flowers and a creative customer oriented approach is required to make your flower shop dream come true. A good floral shop should be in a position to offer fresh and healthy different types of flowers to potential customers.

5.1 Market Segment

In order to ensure Kate’s Blossoms to meet its obligations, the flower shop will focus on selling various flower products and services. The aim it to introduce a wide array of services that are exclusively associated with Kate’s Blossoms. A good flower shop business plan sample should be in a position to identify potential customers for the flower shop business plan . Kate’s Blossoms will basically reach out to anyone who’s interested in flower and services being offered. After extensive market research, the flower shop has identified the following customers to patronize the facility.

5.1.1 Individuals

One of the biggest markets for Kate’s Blossoms is individuals who love flowers. The concept of buying flowers for personal use has been embraced by many people across United States. For instance, some people buy flowers to keep in their house for beauty or other could get rose flowers for a loved one to express their feelings. During special occasions such as Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day or Father’s Day to mention but a few people tend to buy flowers more compared to normal days. According to many florist business plans , statistics indicate that Americans spent $31.3 billion on floriculture in 2015. The growth witnessed in the floral industry has been attributed to an increasing number of people embracing the flower giving lifestyle. This flower shop business proposal sample is designed to focus on reaching out to current flower enthusiasts in a bid to encourage them to try out different types of bouquets arrangements.

5.1.2 Corporates

This group consists of customers who are looking to hosting events that require some floral arrangements. This group consists of people drawn from various corporates and firms from various professional and industries looking for a flower shop provide top notch arrangement for the perfect finishing touch or completely transforming a space. Once in a while, corporates usually host parties and events and require a professional to handle the arrangement. Kate’s Blossoms, wishes to target these kind of events to provide floral services as well as table setting. The business will provide a conducive environment for your planned event for your flower shop business plan partners, employees and potential business partners to meet, exchange ideas, celebrate and socialize. Seattle is a big city with a lot of companies that hold events once in a while. For this reason, Kate worked on the perfect plan on how to start a flower store business plan that will target these corporates for frequent gigs.

5.1.3 Weddings

Weddings happens all the time across Seattle city. One of the main requirements to have a beautiful wedding receptions are flowers. Most couples when planning for a wedding they want to deal with a company that provides top notch flower service to make their day memorable. According to the sample business plan for a flower shop, Kate’s Blossoms intends to focus on couples planning a wedding to provide over the top flower arrangement for their special day. The flower shop will give couples the options to choose the flowers they want so as to get a customized service. Today, people getting married are willing to spend a considerable amount of money to grace their occasion with beautiful flowers and table setting. The flower shop business plan example plans to invite potential couples to visit the floral shop to look at previous successful work and benefit from experts advice.

5.1.4 New Mothers

Presenting a bouquet of beautiful flowers to a new mother is always a heart melting action. Kate’s Blossoms floral shop business plan will focus on targeting people having new mothers in their lives to spoil them with some flowers. New mothers will also be a business target when it comes to baby arrangements. These flower arrangements will be arranged depending with the gender of the child. For instance if it’s a baby girl, a mixture of daisies and pink roses can be arranged in a basket to celebrate the birth of a new baby girl. In another instance, a baby boy can get an arranged bouquet of yellow Asiatic lilies, green pompons and blue delphinium.

5.2 Business Target

Everyone wants to become part of the floral culture and Kate’s Blossoms has an excellent opportunity to launch its services on the market. Settle is a large city and the floral shop intends to set up in a strategic location with high human traffic. In order to boost revenue, the flower shop plans to offer a diversified product range of services for its customers. With a good strategic business plan flower shop in place, Kates’s Blossoms hopes to achieve a 28-35% increase in annual sales.

5.3 Product Pricing

When planning how to open your own flower shop, it is necessary to do a market study and compare product prices from competitors. You should also make use of free flower shop business plan ideas available in the internet to have helpful information on how to run a successful floral business. When it comes to pricing the services, a proper research needs to be carried out to come up with attractive packages. Given the increasing number of flower shops, Kate’s Blossoms is keen to have competitive pricing in order to stay afloat and compete favorably with other industry players. The business will also capitalize on introducing awesome packages that are not be offered by other flower shop to attract even more customers.

The flower industry is experiencing rapid growth as giving of flowers as a form of gift becomes more predominant. With more people and corporates keen on finding a sensitive and beautiful way to express themselves, the of floral shops has drastically increased and there is need for Kate’s Blossoms to find the best strategic plans of how to open up a flower shop business and remain relevant in a fast growing industry.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Kate’s Blossoms plans to come up with business model that will sustain business operations and ensure customers enjoy superior quality products. There are other flower shops in the city but the business has identified strategies to help it remain ahead of competitors.

6.2 Sales Strategy

For the flower shop to attain its sales goals, the following strategies have been identified to help market the business.

• Organize a grand party for the entire neighborhood to introduce the flower shop to customers. During the event, offer customers free coffee and snacks for them to show them what the flower shop business plan s to offer.
• Offer training sessions to keep staff up to date about the latest floral services available in the flower shop. Doing this empowers staff to convince customers why they should spend their money on various flower services and products.
• Embrace SMS text messaging as a way to retain clients and build long-term customer relationships and loyalty
• Place signage at strategic points within the customer target areas to create awareness and market the flower shop.
• Come up with loyalty plan that see loyal customers enjoy goodies from the floral shop and remain committed clients
• Advertise the flower shop on local media channels such as radio, newspapers and television
• Use social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to market the flower shop

6.3 Sales Forecast

To achieve its targets, Kate’s Blossoms has formulated a sales forecast to demonstrate how the floral shop will perform when it starts operations. Before you venture into how to start a floral design business, you have to have a comprehensive flower shop business plan with achievable goals. Kate Spencer has the right information on how to start a flower shop and believes the business will be the best in Seattle.

Personnel Plan

High quality business plan and professional support.

It was amazing to work with OGS Capital for our business plan. They promptly responded our enquires and delivered document on time.The document was well organized high quality and content.We succeded with Alex and his team support. We thank you guys again for professional approach and easy communication.

Kate’s Blossoms hopes to employ well trained and experienced personnel to run the operations of the flower shop on a daily basis. According to many floral business plans , the business costs should include a personnel budget to enable the business have an idea how much it will spend on salaries.

7.1 Personnel Plan

Kate’s Blossoms is owned by Kate Spencer who will also be the manager of the flower shop. As preparations are put in place for the business to open doors to the public, the following staff will be employed in the flower shop.

Owner/Manager Operation Manager 2 Marketing Executives 1 Cashier 2 Cleaners 6 Florists

Successful applicants will be undergo training to familiarize themselves with flower shop operations to boost productivity and performance. The flower shop business plan s to encourage everyone to work as a team for smooth day to day operations.

7.2 Salaries

Kates’s Blossoms plans to compensate its members of staff the following salaries within the first three years of operation. If you are planning on how to start my own flower shop business , paying your employees a competitive package should be among your priorities to motivate them.

Financial Plan

Kate’s Blossoms has come up with a detailed financial plan that will guide the operations of the flower shop. Initial capital and business expenses need to be well-defined in the flower shop business plan template . In this flower shop business plan , Kate Spencer will finance the flower shop business plan assisted by two investors. A bank loan will be secured to help finance budget deficiencies. When it to how to start a floral business , you shouldn’t be afraid to seek help form experts to come up with a comprehensive financial plan. If you are wondering on how to start your own flower shop and make it successful, you will need to come up with an awesome flower shop business plan that will guide you to achieving your goals.

Below is important financial data for Kate’s Blossoms.

8.1 Important Assumptions

Financial forecast for Kate’s Blossoms shall be based on the assumptions below.

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

The Brake-even Analysis for Kate’s Blossoms is shown in the graph below.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 monthly profit.

8.3.2 Yearly Profit

8.3.3 Monthly Gross Margin

8.3.4 Yearly Gross Margin

Profit and Loss Analysis for Kate’s Blossoms is shown below.

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

Below is a summary of pro forma cash flow, subtotal cash received, subtotal cash spent on operations, subtotal cash spent and subtotal cash from operations.

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Writing a Business Plan in Malaysia

• Writing a Business Plan in…

A Business Plan is a Company Resume That is Useful at Every Step of the Journey

Why Is It Necessary

If you were an investor, would you immediately invest in a business in Malaysia without seeing any evidence? My guess exactly, no, of course, you would not. Thus, a business plan is proof that careful thought was put into it realise it. Besides a company profile, a business plan lays out details of the business idea, the current problems where the concept will help resolve it and how it will affect the market as a whole. Okay, maybe this is a bit too far, but still, you need to have a clear conscience of your business. The ultimate reason for having a business plan is to convince an investor to invest in your company. No amount of buddy talk can replace a credible business plan. At least, an investor will have faith in it and hope for the best.

Who Uses It

Besides yourself as the business owner, banks and even your employees will utilise it too. The business plan will serve the purpose of a framework for the company. An employee may understand their job description very well. But, having worked in the market, they have feedbacks as to where the company should work for the better. Thus, by providing such feedbacks to the business plan, the business owner can restructure strategies suitable for current market conditions. You will also keep coming back to the business plan to update and amend wherever necessary. Writing a business plan in Malaysia is never conclusive as time goes by, you may also need expert advice to ensure it remains relevant.

What It Entails

A business plan does not have to be a lengthy thesis-like document. It is your business resume. Hence, it is up to you how you want to write it. It should have the following details but assemble it accordingly.

• The Business Idea – Create a simple story with a problem and your business idea as a solution. If you are feeling it, you can even add piecemeal information on how you got to this idea.
• The Team – If you are flying solo for the moment, just put it in. Briefly include all your strength and skills to ensure it is relevant to business success.
• Market Research – This is where you probably need expert advice and assistance. It is necessary to provide market insight to future investors that you know the market well. Market research will also produce the target market of your product or service offering. Work on it until you get a niche market so that you have a better perspective.
• Marketing Strategies – When you know your target market niche, you can formulate your marketing strategies. The more concrete your marketing campaign is, the more likely banks or investors will lend you the capital.
• Financial Matters – Even as a seasoned company, there is always the need to raise capital. By providing a history of your financials and its future projections, an investor can calculate a reasonable return of investment of the business.
• Various Appendices – This part may consist of any business permits, certifications or clienteles if you want to add in.

Writing a business plan in Malaysia should never be bothersome as it is a vital document for your company’s success. There is no particular format, but if you have no clue what you are planning, try and some expert advice as to how and where the company can go.

How To Write a Business Plan for Flower Shop in 9 Steps: Checklist

By henry sheykin, resources on flower shop.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan
• Bundle Business Plan & Fin Model

Welcome to our blog post on how to write a business plan for a flower shop! If you've been dreaming of starting your own floral business and want to make it a reality, then you're in the right place. The floral industry has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, with a market size of over $34 billion in 2020, and is projected to continue to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2021 to 2028. Now is the perfect time to seize the opportunity and create your own online flower shop.

Before diving into the steps of creating a business plan, it's crucial to understand the market you'll be entering. Identifying your target market will help you tailor your offerings and marketing strategies to appeal to the right customers. Conducting thorough market research will provide valuable insights into consumer preferences, trends, and demands.

When starting any business, it's essential to be aware of the competition. Analyzing your competitors will help you identify their strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to differentiate your flower shop. By determining your unique selling proposition, you'll be able to offer something that stands out from the crowd and attracts customers.

Setting clear business goals and objectives will provide a roadmap for your flower shop's success. Consider both short-term and long-term goals, such as achieving a certain revenue target within the first year or expanding your product offerings in the future. These goals will guide all your actions and decision-making processes.

Financial planning is a critical aspect of any business. Create a budget that accounts for expenses such as inventory, marketing, website development, and employee salaries. Securing financing, whether through personal savings, loans, or investors, is often necessary to cover initial costs.

Pricing your floral arrangements properly is crucial to ensure profitability while remaining competitive. Analyze your costs, overheads, and market prices to develop a pricing strategy that reflects the value you offer while appealing to your target market.

As an online flower shop, you'll need reliable suppliers to provide you with fresh, high-quality blooms. Identifying potential suppliers and establishing relationships with them is essential. Look for small batch growers across the country who offer fresh, seasonal blooms that align with your farm-to-accent approach.

Last but not least, make sure you familiarize yourself with any legal and regulatory requirements related to running a flower shop. This may include permits, licenses, zoning regulations, and compliance with health and safety standards. Taking care of these legal aspects will ensure smooth operations and avoid any legal complications down the line.

By following these steps and crafting a detailed business plan, you'll be well on your way to launching a successful online flower shop. So get ready to celebrate beauty and bring joy into people's lives with fresh, farm-to-accent floral arrangements!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or professional advice. Consult with a business advisor or attorney for specific recommendations tailored to your unique business and location.

Identify Your Target Market

Before starting a flower shop business, it is crucial to identify your target market. Understanding your potential customers and their preferences will help you tailor your products and marketing efforts to attract and retain them. Here are some important steps to identify your target market:

• Research demographics: Begin by researching the demographics of your local area. Consider factors such as age, gender, income level, and lifestyle. This information will help you determine the type of customers who are more likely to be interested in your farm-to-accent floral arrangements.
• Identify customer needs and preferences: Conduct surveys, interviews, or focus groups to gain insights into what potential customers look for in a flower shop. Understand their preferences for flower types, colors, arrangements, and pricing.
• Analyze existing customer data: If you already have an existing customer base, analyze their purchasing behavior, preferences, and feedback. This data can provide valuable information about who your target market may be.
• Consider seasonal trends: Flowers are often associated with special occasions or holidays. Analyze the seasonal trends and identify peak periods when your products are likely to be in high demand.

Tips for Identifying Your Target Market:

• Utilize free online tools like Google Analytics or social media insights to gather data on your target audience.
• Stay updated with industry trends and changes in consumer preferences to refine your target market strategy over time.
• Consider conducting market research surveys or focus groups to gather direct feedback from potential customers.

Identifying your target market is the first step towards developing a successful business plan for your flower shop. By understanding who your customers are and what they desire, you can tailor your offerings to meet their needs and increase the likelihood of building a loyal customer base.

Conduct Market Research

Once you have identified your target market for your flower shop, it's important to conduct thorough market research to gain valuable insights into the industry and competition. This will help you make informed decisions and develop effective strategies for your business.

When conducting market research, start by gathering information on the current floral industry trends, customer preferences, and purchasing habits. This can be done through surveys, interviews, or analyzing existing data available from market research firms. Understanding the market trends and consumer demands will help you position your flower shop effectively and offer products that cater to your target audience.

Next, analyze your competition. Identify other online flower shops or local florists in your area and assess their strengths, weaknesses, and pricing strategies. This will help you identify gaps in the market and differentiate your business by offering unique products or services.

Tips for conducting market research:

• Define your research objectives: Clearly outline what you want to achieve through your market research, whether it's understanding customer preferences, analyzing market trends, or identifying the competitive landscape.
• Utilize online resources: Make use of industry reports, online databases, and social media platforms to gather relevant information about the floral industry and consumer behavior.
• Survey your potential customers: Create online surveys or conduct focus groups to gather firsthand feedback from your target audience. This will help you understand their preferences, expectations, and any pain points they may have in the current market.
• Stay updated with industry news: Subscribe to industry publications, attend trade shows, and join relevant online communities to stay informed about the latest trends, technological advancements, and opportunities in the floral industry.

By conducting comprehensive market research, you will gain a deeper understanding of your target market, competition, and industry landscape. This knowledge will serve as a foundation for developing a successful business plan and executing effective strategies to grow your online flower shop.

Analyze Your Competition

One crucial step in writing a business plan for your flower shop is to thoroughly analyze your competition. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors will enable you to develop strategies that set your online flower shop apart in the market.

Start by identifying the key players in the online flower delivery industry. Take note of their business models, target markets, product offerings, and pricing strategies. This information will help you assess the current competitive landscape and identify opportunities for differentiation.

Here are some important points to consider when analyzing your competition:

Product Range:

Pricing strategy:, delivery options:, customer experience:, marketing and promotion:.

By thoroughly analyzing your competition, you will gain valuable insights that will shape your business strategies. Remember, the goal is not to copy what others are doing but to identify gaps and opportunities that can differentiate your online flower shop, setting it apart from the rest.

Determine Your Unique Selling Proposition

One of the most crucial steps in writing a business plan for a flower shop is determining your unique selling proposition (USP). Your USP is what sets your online flower shop apart from the competition and makes it compelling to customers. Here are some important considerations when determining your USP:

• Identify your niche: Start by identifying the specific niche or target market you want to serve. In this case, you could focus on customers who value farm-to-accent floral arrangements and are looking for fresh, seasonal blooms sourced from small batch growers.
• Highlight what makes you unique: Think about what unique features or characteristics your online flower shop has that differentiate it from your competitors. Is it the wide variety of flowers you offer? The convenience of the subscription floral box plan? Or the personalized and custom designs offered through your florist service?
• Consider conducting a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to better understand your business's unique strengths and weaknesses.
• Research your competitors to see what they offer and how you can differentiate yourself.
• Gather customer feedback and testimonials to showcase what makes your online flower shop stand out.

By determining your unique selling proposition, you can effectively communicate your value proposition to potential customers and establish a strong brand presence in the floral industry. Your USP will become the foundation for your marketing strategies and will help attract and retain customers in a competitive market.

Define Your Business Goals And Objectives

Before diving into the world of flower shop ownership, it's crucial to define your business goals and objectives. This step will help guide your decision-making process and provide direction for the overall growth and success of your online flower shop. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

• 1. Determine your revenue targets: Clearly establish how much revenue you aim to generate within a specific timeframe, whether that's monthly, quarterly, or annually. This target will serve as a benchmark for measuring your progress and success.
• 2. Identify growth opportunities: Outline the areas in which you want your flower shop to grow. This could include expanding your customer base, introducing new product offerings, or even scaling your operations to reach a wider market.
• 3. Establish customer satisfaction goals: As a business owner, customer satisfaction should be high on your list of priorities. Set specific goals related to customer feedback, reviews, and retention rates to ensure that you are constantly striving to exceed expectations.
• 4. Focus on brand development: Consider what you want your brand to represent and how you want it to be perceived by your target market. Outline goals related to brand positioning, image, and recognition to guide your marketing efforts and build a strong brand identity.
• Ensure your goals and objectives are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• Regularly review and update your goals to reflect changes in the market or your business circumstances.

Defining your business goals and objectives will provide you with clarity and a roadmap for success as you navigate the exciting world of owning an online flower shop. It will help you stay focused, make informed decisions, and ultimately achieve your desired level of growth and profitability.

Create A Budget And Secure Financing

One of the crucial steps in starting a flower shop is creating a budget and securing financing. Proper financial planning is essential to ensure the smooth functioning and growth of your business. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

• Estimate your startup costs: Begin by estimating the initial costs required to set up your online flower shop. This includes expenses such as website development, inventory, packaging, marketing, and legal fees.
• Outline your ongoing expenses: Apart from the initial costs, you should also plan for ongoing expenses like rent, utilities, employee salaries, and marketing campaigns. It is important to account for these recurring costs to avoid any surprises later on.
• Identify potential sources of financing: Depending on the scale of your flower shop, you may need external funds to support your business endeavors. Explore different financing options such as small business loans, personal savings, or seeking investors.
• Create a detailed financial projection: Develop a comprehensive financial projection that includes sales forecasts, income statements, and cash flow projections. This will help you analyze the financial feasibility of your flower shop and present a convincing case to potential investors or lenders.
• Seek professional advice: If you are new to financial planning, consider consulting with a financial advisor or an accountant who specializes in small businesses. They can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you create a realistic budget and secure the necessary financing.
• Remember to include a contingency fund in your budget to account for any unforeseen expenses or emergencies that may arise.
• Consider researching government grants or programs that may be available for small businesses in the floral industry.
• Prepare a convincing business plan that outlines your financial needs, demonstrates market potential, and showcases your expertise in the flower industry. This can be instrumental in securing financing from lenders or investors.

By carefully planning your budget and securing appropriate financing, you lay a strong foundation for the success and growth of your online flower shop. Remember, financial stability is key to ensuring the sustainability and profitability of your business.

Develop A Pricing Strategy

Developing a pricing strategy is an essential step in creating a successful business plan for your flower shop. Your pricing strategy will determine how much you charge for your products or services, ensuring that it is competitive in the market while still generating enough profit for your business.

Here are some important considerations when developing a pricing strategy:

Research your market:

Calculate your costs:, consider your target audience:, set competitive yet profitable prices:, regularly evaluate and adjust:.

Developing a sound pricing strategy is crucial to the success of your flower shop. By understanding your market, considering your costs, and catering to your target audience, you can set competitive prices that not only attract customers but also ensure the sustainability and profitability of your business.

Identify Potential Suppliers And Establish Relationships

Identifying potential suppliers and establishing strong relationships with them is crucial for the success of your flower shop business. Here are the key steps to take:

1. Research and Identify Potential Suppliers: Start by conducting thorough research to identify potential suppliers who can provide you with the fresh, seasonal flowers you need. Look for local flower growers, wholesalers, and distributors who align with your business values and offer a wide variety of blooms.

2. Evaluate Supplier Reliability: Once you have a list of potential suppliers, evaluate their reliability. Consider factors such as their track record, reputation, delivery schedules, and ability to consistently provide high-quality flowers. You can check online reviews, ask for references, or even visit their farms or facilities to get a firsthand understanding of their operations.

3. Compare Pricing: Compare the prices offered by different suppliers to ensure you get the best value for your money. While it's important to consider cost-efficiency, remember that quality should also be a top priority when selecting suppliers for your flower shop.

4. Establish Relationships: Once you have identified reliable and cost-effective suppliers, it's time to establish strong relationships with them. Reach out to them personally, either through phone calls or emails, to introduce yourself and express your interest in working together. Building personal connections with your suppliers can lead to better communication, trust, and potential advantageous terms in the future.

5. Communicate Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations, requirements, and any specific preferences regarding the flowers you want to source. For example, you may prefer working with suppliers who offer organic or sustainably grown flowers. By setting clear expectations from the beginning, you will ensure that your suppliers understand your needs and can meet them accordingly.

• Consider attending industry trade shows or events to network with potential suppliers and learn more about the latest trends in the floral industry.
• Establishing relationships with local flower growers can help you support your community and provide your customers with unique, locally sourced blooms.
• Regularly communicate with your suppliers to stay updated on their offerings, availability, and any changes that may impact your business. Maintaining open lines of communication will strengthen your relationships and help you make informed business decisions.

Remember, selecting the right suppliers and establishing strong relationships with them is an ongoing process. Regularly evaluate their performance, stay informed about industry trends, and remain open to exploring new partnerships to ensure your flower shop's success.

Consider Legal And Regulatory Requirements

When starting a flower shop, it is crucial to consider the legal and regulatory requirements that apply to your business. Ensuring compliance with these requirements will help you avoid potential legal issues and fines, and establish a strong foundation for your business's success.

First and foremost, you need to register your business . Choose a legal structure for your flower shop, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC), and register it with the appropriate government agencies. This will provide you with a legal entity and protect your personal assets.

Tips for Registering Your Business:

• Research the specific registration requirements in your locality or country.
• Consult with a lawyer or accountant to ensure compliance with legal obligations.
• Obtain any necessary licenses or permits for operating a flower shop.

To legally operate your online flower shop, you will also need to comply with local zoning laws . Check with your local authorities to determine if there are any zoning restrictions or permits required for running your business from a specific location, whether it is a commercial space or your home.

Tips for Complying with Zoning Laws:

• Ensure that your chosen location is zoned for retail or commercial activities.
• Familiarize yourself with any restrictions regarding signage, parking, or operating hours.
• Consult with a lawyer or local authorities to ensure compliance.

In addition, it is important to understand the tax obligations associated with running a flower shop. Register for a tax identification number, and consult with a tax professional to ensure you are aware of all the applicable taxes and how to properly file your business taxes.

Tips for Managing Taxes:

• Keep detailed records of all business income and expenses.
• Set up a system to track sales tax if required in your jurisdiction.
• Consider consulting with an accountant or tax professional for guidance.

Lastly, familiarize yourself with any regulations regarding shipping and handling of fresh flowers . Ensure that you comply with any restrictions or requirements imposed by shipping carriers or agricultural authorities to avoid any issues with the transportation and delivery of your floral arrangements.

Tips for Shipping and Handling:

• Follow proper packaging guidelines to maintain the freshness and quality of your flowers during transit.
• Check for any restrictions on shipping certain types of flowers or plants to different locations.
• Stay informed about any changes in shipping regulations or requirements.

By considering and complying with the legal and regulatory requirements , you can ensure that your flower shop operates within the bounds of the law, and provide a safe and reliable service to your customers.

Writing a business plan for a flower shop requires careful consideration of your target market, competition, unique selling proposition, business goals, and budget. By conducting market research, analyzing your competition, and identifying potential suppliers, you can ensure a successful launch and growth of your online flower shop. With a well-defined pricing strategy and a focus on providing fresh, seasonal blooms from small batch growers, your business can thrive in the competitive floral industry. Utilizing social media and a user-friendly website will help promote your business and provide a seamless customer experience. Don't forget to consider legal and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and avoid any potential issues. By following these nine steps, you can create a solid business plan for your flower shop and set yourself up for success.

Flower Shop Financial Model

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• Business Plans Handbook
• Business Plans - Volume 01
• Retail Florist Business Plan

Retail Florist

BUSINESS PLAN

DESIGNS BY LINDA, INC.

378 Martin Luther King, Jr. Bldg. Columbus, OH 74730

June 10, 1991

Designs by Linda is a full-service retail florist providing decorative planning for weddings and conventions, plant maintenance, and plantscaping. Designs is seeking funding to incorporate its new second location into its current successful enterprise. This plan details how funding would assist in the continued growth of the company .

INTRODUCTION

Description.

• MARKETING STRATEGIES

COMPETITION

Application and effect of loan.

The following is the proposed business plan designed to implement the continued growth of Designs by Linda, Inc. This plan was written by its president, Linda Irvin.

Statement of Purpose

The reason for developing this new business plan is to include our second store located in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building in the University District area of Columbus. We have secured a lease, effective September 27, 1991, in the former location of Wilson & Burton Florist. This space, in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building, has occupied a full-service retail florist since the building opened 63 years ago.

Our second location is an integral part of Designs by Linda, Inc. The expansion will give us over 1600 square feet of new retail space, 300 square feet of office space, and over 2000 square feet of production and storage. Currently, we have only 650 square feet of usable space in our Phoenix Center store.

We are also negotiating with the management company, Phoenix Center Venture, and with Guido Associates, a leasing company, for more suitable facilities within the Phoenix Center.

At this time, 1240 square feet of retail space on the promenade level, formally occupied by Henry's Horticulturals, should be available after the landlord completes legal proceedings to repossess the space.

Financing Sought

Designs by Linda, Inc. is seeking to secure financing of $100,000 comprising a $75,000 loan and a $25,000 line of credit. The $75,000 loan would be for five years and the money will be repaid from the proceeds of the Fisher building location and the Phoenix Center location. The $75,000 and the $25,000 line of credit will be spent on leasehold improvements, beginning inventory, and debt restructuring. These monies will supplement a cash allowance of $36,600 that Goble, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building landlord, is supplying Designs by Linda, Inc. for leasehold improvements. A copy of the work letter detailing the cash allowance is enclosed in the appendices.

$45,000 of the loan and $20,000 of the line of credit, along with the $36,600 cash allowance, will give us over $100,000 to open the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building store. This store will enable Designs by Linda, Inc. to more than double our annual sales and will provide us with a facility capable of handling the future growth we plan to produce with our aggressive marketing strategy.

The remaining $30,000 loan and $5,000 line of credit will be used in leasehold improvements at the Phoenix Center location.

Designs by Linda, Inc. is located within the 100 Tower of the Phoenix Center in the former location of the Terra Viridis Plant Boutique.

Designs by Linda, Inc. strives to be one of Columbus's most innovative and unique florists. Our approach to floral design is pure and natural and it explores not only the character of flowers, individually and in combinations, but also the aesthetic relationship between flowers and the setting. We are determined to continue and enhance the tradition of flowers through innovative design, aggressive marketing, and most importantly, quality products and service.

Activities and Services

Designs by Linda, Inc. is a full-service retail florist selling cut flowers, fresh-cut arrangements, silk and dried arrangements, dish gardens, and green and blooming plants. We offer a variety of services such as:

• Decorative planning (including a referral service for caterers and musicians) for conventions, corporate and private parties, weddings, cultural events, and holidays
• Standing floral orders for offices and homes
• Plant maintenance
• Interior and exterior plantscaping
• An AFS floral wire service for out-of-town orders.

Merchandise

In addition to a wide variety of fresh cut flowers and green and blooming plants, Designs by Linda, Inc. sells stuffed plush animals, gift wrapping, greeting cards, ceramics and pottery, crystal and glassware, baby novelties, balloons, and birthday products.

Designs by Linda, Inc. currently maintains eight full-time employees. We supplement regular staff with part-time help as needed for major holidays such as Christmas, Valentine's Day, Sweetest Day, and Secretaries' Week, and for local events such as the Columbus Grand Prix.

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s designers have many years of combined experience in the field of design. In addition to skills required in the floral industry, Designs by Linda, Inc.'s designers have experience in architecture, interior design, graphic design, the fine arts, and hospitality industries. The variety and quality of staff experience and skills strengthens Designs by Linda, Inc.'s ability to provide the customer with a variety of approaches-be it traditional or state of the art- and allows them the versatility to choose the style that fits their own individual tastes.

Hours of Operation

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s business hours are from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays. However, we routinely keep the store open past our normal closing hours if there are customers in the shop.

Business History

Designs by Linda, Inc. is an S corporation and was chartered under the laws of the state of Ohio in September of 1989. Its 50,000 shares, with 500 shares outstanding, are owned by the president, Linda Irvin.

We assumed the existing lease and bought the assets of the Terra Viridis Plant Boutique for $8,000 in February of 1990. Terra Viridis is a plant maintenance company with over 900 accounts in the metropolitan area.

Designs by Linda, Inc. was established as the result of a combination of circumstances. Terra Viridis's owner, William Wilson, was highly motivated to relinquish his lease on the Plant Boutique after losing the Park Place Hotel plant maintenance contract which carried an annual value of $200,000. Without the Park Place contract and with the store's annual sales only totaling $80,000, the Phoenix Center location was not profitable and became a financial burden.

With my years of experience as a floral designer in the metropolitan area and my familiarity with downtown businesses, hotels, and restaurants, I knew my reputation was established and secure enough to support such a venture. In addition, the $8,000 price was very reasonable for a turnkey operation with such a favorable location. All of these factors—the situation of the previous tenant, the sound price, and my professional experience—contributed to the establishment of the store.

First Year Successes

In its first 12 months, Designs by Linda, Inc. brought in over $210,000 in sales, almost tripling the previous tenant's business.

Our projection of $320,000 in sales for the second twelve months, shows an additional increase of over 50 percent.

Future Needs

Although Designs by Linda, Inc. has nearly quadrupled the previous tenant's sales, we believe the existing facility has hampered potential growth. Our current location has no running water and does not have adequate cooler space for the volume of cut flowers we require. Inadequate refrigeration has also impeded our ability to create, display, and sell stock floral arrangements which, with the existing cooler space, we are unable to store. These floral arrangements are used throughout the industry as an important, proven sales tactic.

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s marketing program is geared toward enlarging our customer base, building up corporate accounts, increasing our special-occasion and "cash-and-carry" sales, and expanding our traditional holiday business.

Target Market

The Phoenix Center has over 10,000 people who work in the center and studies show an additional 4000 people, on average, visit the building daily. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building quotes similar numbers by incorporating residents and visitors of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building, the University District, Columbus Town Center, the Federal Building, and the Hotel St. Regis — all of which are connected by skywalks and tunnels.

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s secondary market is any hotel, club, restaurant, or conference center in metropolitan Columbus. The expansion of our corporate client base is a priority because businesses generate a consistent sales flow which covers fixed costs.

MARKET STRATEGIES

National marketing.

Designs by Linda, Inc. is a member of the American Floral Marketing Council (AFMC), an independently funded committee of the Society of American Florists (SAF). AFMC's mission is to provide the industry with a marketing program that builds business between holidays when traditionally sales are slow. AFMC conducts a three-tiered program of advertising, merchandising, and public relations which covers the entire United States.

FTD, AFS, and other floral wire services offer national marketing using radio, television, and print media. In addition, these wire services have national spokespersons making public appearances on television talk shows to inform the public of new ways to purchase flowers and plants. These efforts stimulate consumer demand for flowers which translates into additional sales for our store. In order to boost our in-coming wire service orders and build our reputation outside of Ohio, Designs by Linda, Inc. has established an 800 number in our wire service advertisements to attract more business.

Local Marketing

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s local marketing program will utilize many of the national marketing tools, but will employ a more direct approach. By exploiting information gathered in our cash register (we track over eighty different items) and analyzing our sales figures, we identify our problems, take advantage of opportunities, and develop marketing objectives and strategies.

Current Situation

Designs by Linda, Inc. studies the current marketing situation on a daily and monthly basis to analyze trends and identify sources of business growth. Designs by Linda, Inc.'s owners are on hand daily to insure customer service. Our services include products of the highest quality and a prompt response to feedback from customers and clients. Our extensive and highly detailed financial statements, produced monthly, have enabled us to stay competitive and exploit presented opportunities. Copies of our financial statements are available upon request.

Marketing Budget

Our objective in setting a marketing budget has been to keep it between two and five percent of our estimated annual gross sales. Our main marketing "fixed costs" have come from our participation in AFMC and AFS. The remaining marketing programs have been more discretionary. Some examples are:

• Promotion expenses (free gifts for coming in the shop)
• Printed materials (pamphlets, fliers, postcards)
• Media advertisements (radio, newspapers, outdoors)
• Bartering (exchanging our products for ad placement)
• Product donations (door prizes, building promotions, charities)

Marketing Objectives

Our overall goal is to continue to offer excellent quality, service, and value.

Primary Objective

Increase corporate sales by fifteen percent.

Strategy We will use our metropolitan Columbus chamber of commerce to target prospective contacts. We will mail letters to each prospect describing our corporate services. We will follow-up with phone calls and product samples.

Second Objective

Increase standing orders for floral arrangements by 200 percent.

Strategy We will exploit our corporate and hotel contacts which will be our best source for new clients.

Third Objective

Increase overall sales by fifteen percent.

Strategy We will monitor our sales figures and data to confirm that products in demand are well-stocked and slow moving products are phased-out. We will improve telephone skills of employees to boost phone orders.

Fourth Objective

Increase sales for Mothers' Day by ten percent.

Strategy We will advertise with flyers, distributed throughout Phoenix Center offices, in an effort to capture more of the outgoing wire orders. We will decorate the shops early and promote specials.

Fifth Objective

Increase sales for Secretaries Week by twenty percent.

Strategy We will advertise through direct mail campaigns aimed at all offices in the Phoenix Center and in surrounding buildings. Free delivery to local offices will be offered. We will follow-up direct mail campaigns with phone calls to the larger offices. We will coordinate our efforts with The Phoenix Club and other downtown restaurants to promote the holiday.

Sixth Objective

Increase sales of our Christmas decorating services.

Strategy We will set up appointments with prospective clients and follow-up with product samples and photographs of past work.

Seventh Objective

Increase overall sales by 300 percent within a two year period by opening Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location and moving or remodeling Phoenix Center Location.

Strategy We will increase our market share by the tactics listed above. We will also increase our plant maintenance program in order to boost our overall sales. With our increased buying power, we expect to be in the position to offer discount prices on particular items which will, in return, encourage clients to buy more flowers more frequently.

Monitoring Marketing Results

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s financial statements will offer excellent data to track all phases of sales. These are available for review on a daily basis.

Designs by Linda, Inc. has three main competitors: Alexander's Flowers, Blossoms Fresh Flower Market, and Rowers Plus. Our main downtown competition, Henry's Horticulturals, has recently gone out of business and their Westside Center location has been taken over by Alexander's Flowers.

Alexander's Flowers

Headquartered at: Trapper's Alley, Columbus, OH Additional Locations at: Ashley's, Westside Center, Columbus, OH

Strengths Alexander's is run by a hands-on owner. Located in the University District for over ten years, the shop continues to do well even though Trapper's Alley has been struck particularly hard by the recession and has had difficulty keeping tenants.

Weaknesses With the recent establishment of their second location in the Westside Center (doing business as Ashley's), Alexander's could have overextended itself. The Westside Center location, with its marginal success record, could prove itself a burden on the University District location.

Blossoms Fresh Flower Market

Owned by: Ron Silk and Dale Morgan Headquartered at: 2338 Carpenter Highway, Dayton, OH Additional Locations at: 154 W. Maple, Columbus, OH; 115 Kercheval, Columbus, OH

Strengths Blossoms, in business for over ten years, is well-known for their avant-garde design and imported products that are high in quality and originality. Their business is expanding and they are recognized for their high profile parties and weddings.

Weaknesses Because of Blossoms' concentration on lavish imported products, they have effectively priced themselves out of the downtown Columbus market. Although their business is expanding, it is growing mainly in the suburbs. They have failed to maintain a steady repeat business in the downtown area, a necessity in the floral industry, because along with their high quality comes extremely high prices. Their emphasis on imported flowers has been very successful for their suburban locations, but they have been unable to translate this success to the downtown area because they misunderstand the different type of customer. With the recent closing of their Westside Center store, the result of low sales, they are concentrating their efforts in the more affluent suburbs.

Flowers Plus

Headquartered at: Columbus Town Center, Columbus, OH Additional Locations at: Algonquin Building, Columbus, OH

Strengths Flowers Plus is a well-managed operation that concentrates on providing products at reasonable prices.

Weaknesses Both stores operating under the Flowers Plus name are not owneroperated which impedes their ability to make decisions and results in a less personal approach to customer satisfaction. The recent closing of their store in the Columbus Dispatch Building illustrates the disadvantages of not having an owner on the premises.

Designs by Linda, Inc.

Our store has the aggressive sales strategy necessary to compete in the downtown market. We take the initiative to show clients, like The Phoenix Club, the Park Place Hotel, and the Dayton Inn, the type of work and the quality of service we can provide. In the few months since the closing of Henry's Horticulturals, Designs by Linda, Inc. has moved quickly to absorb several of their major accounts including the Park Place Hotel, the Columbus Athletic Club, and several corporate accounts located in the Phoenix Center.

Although there has been a general decline in the number of florists in the downtown area in the past few years, we have been successful in expanding our client base. Our business continues to grow because we concentrate on satisfying every patron, whether corporate or individual. We are determined that every customer will walk away happy regardless of their budget. We have found our customers appreciate having the owner on the premises taking an active part in every order. It is a guarantee that their business is important and will be given undivided attention and care.

Our sound business practices have resulted in credit accounts with every major Columbus wholesaler allowing us the flexibility to make wise and speedy purchases. All competitors cited within this report have a strict cash on delivery relationship with wholesalers impeding their ability to maintain a wide variety of products.

Although our competition may try to undercut our prices, we feel we will be able to meet their challenge because our reputation is both financially and artistically reliable. Growth in the Columbus floral industry during the 1990s will come from market share. Although the number of downtown florists has shrunk dramatically, the demand for flowers has not, making this the ideal time for Designs by Linda, Inc. to expand. Our clients and our suppliers trust that we will deliver.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Building Location: Designs by Linda, Inc. has been extremely fortunate to assume the former location of Wilson & Burton's within the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building. Taking over a location that has been identified as a flower shop for more than sixty years carries tremendous recognition value and almost certainly guarantees a secure client base.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location will give Designs by Linda, Inc. 1600 square feet of sales space, over 300 feet of office space in the mezzanine level, and over 2000 feet of storage and production space directly accessible to the store. We have the option of expanding the storage and production space to over 5000 feet as business warrants.

Lease Agreement The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building is owned by Goble Properties, Inc. and terms of our lease are available.

Renovations The necessary renovations to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location are as follows:

• Installation of air-conditioning
• Structural repairs to marble cooler
• Construction of check-out and production counters
• New floor covering
• Updated lighting
• Painting and other general cosmetic repairs

Goble is giving us a cash allowance of $36,600. (A copy of the work letter detailing the cash allowance is available.) We believe in order to complete renovations, buy necessary fixtures, and purchase a beginning inventory, it will cost an additional $65,000. We are currently working with John Olgensen, A.I.A., P.C., and they have recently completed a set of drawing working within a budget of $40,000 or less.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Building Tenants: Major tenants of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building include Unisys Corporation, Capitol City Communications, Alexander and Alexander of Ohio Inc., MLK Hospital, and the Columbus Theater. Connected to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building by extensive sky walks and tunnels are Columbus Town Center, University District One, the Hotel St. Regis, and the Algonquin Building.

Parking Goble Management offers shoppers validated parking to encourage commerce.

Location Possibilities The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location offers Designs by Linda, Inc. the latitude and space to meet our growing needs. Although over five times larger than our Phoenix Center location, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building store has essentially the same operating costs. Given its sixty year history as a flower shop, the equitable lease and work allowance we negotiated with Goble Properties, and its well-balanced division of production, retail, and office space, we believe this location is the best possible option for Designs by Linda, Inc.

Personal History

I have been working in the floral industry for over eight years, gaining personal knowledge and experience in all phases of the industry from horticulture to wholesale to retail. Prior to working in the floral industry, I worked in party stores gaining experience in running small businesses.

I have had college course work in business administration, banking and finance, investments, and commercial credit management. I have also attended several FED management seminars.

Reasons for entering the business include the personal challenge.

Duties and Responsibilities: Currently, I handle all aspects of planning, purchasing, sales, personnel, promotion, and production. As the company grows, a more formal management hierarchy will be developed.

Financial growth is monitored by myself and by an accountant who completes monthly statements used to make sound management decisions. A "check and balance" system is in place and entails the cross-checking of daily receipts against the cash register tape and the accountant's review of bookkeeping for errors.

I draw an annual salary of $60,000 from the business although most of this goes to repay loans to finance Designs by Linda, Inc.'s start-up costs. These loans will be paid-in-full by March of 1993. One additional fringe benefit is membership in The Phoenix Club, which is a business tool used to maintain a good working relationship with the Club (one of our larger clients) and its members.

Resources Available to the Business

• Accountant S.L. Schornack, P.C. 26847 Grand River Redford, OH
• Attorney LJ. Bowden, P.C. 2115 Livernois Troy, OH
• Insurance Broker D.C.Davis Florists' Mutual 500 St Aidan St. Edwards ville, IL

Additional Assistance

Floral wire services, such as FTD and AFS, and wholesale suppliers offer assistance in marketing, design, accounting, and management practices. In addition to FTD and AFS advice, Designs by Linda, Inc. is currently a member of the American Floral Marketing Council, the Ohio Floral Association, the Society of American Florists, and the National Association of the Self-Employed, all of which are professional associations designed to assist small businesses.

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s personnel structure is that of one company with two locations. Many of the employees will work at both stores depending on production needs. The office staff, located at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building, will service both stores. Drivers will also serve both stores simultaneously.

Phoenix Center Location We currently employ eight full-time people. We supplement core staff with additional part-time help during holidays and special events. We expect to transfer some personnel to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location when the store opens.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Building Location We expect to employ four to six additional full-time people for this location. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building store will function as the main facility for Designs by Linda, Inc. because it has over 2,000 square feet of production space. The Phoenix Center store does not have running water, sufficient storage space, adequate coolers, or enough design tables. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location was designed as a flower shop and has functioned as such for over 60 years. In addition, this location has over 300 square feet on the mezzanine level which will be used as our office.

Skills and Abilities Staff must have a high school education, be self-motivating, and have strong customer service skills. Previous experience in the floral industry is preferred.

Recruitment Designs by Linda, Inc. has found that local wholesalers and personal referrals are an excellent source for experienced designers and sales clerks. We have not had much success with published classified ads.

Training and Supervision Training is largely accomplished through hands-on experience with supplemental instruction given on more complicated design projects. Additional knowledge is gained through FTD and wholesaler design shows, and industry books, magazines, design manuals, and promotional materials. Designs by Linda, Inc. fosters professional development and independence in all phases of our business. Supervision is task-oriented and the quantity is dependent on the complexity of the job assignment. More experienced employees are responsible for managing certain aspects of production.

Salaries and Benefits Designs by Linda, Inc. pays from $5 to $15 an hour depending on experience. An employee discount of 30 to 50 percent on merchandise is offered. As business warrants, we hope to put together a benefit package that includes insurance, parking, and paid vacations.

The secured monies will be applied as detailed below and will enable Designs by Linda, Inc. to increase our overall sales to over one million dollars annually within the next two years.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Building As stated earlier, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location, with its production and office space, gives Designs by Linda, Inc. the facilities to increase our market share in the downtown area.

Phoenix Center By moving our shop to the Promenade Level with its large walkin cooler, running water, and greater production area, Designs by Linda, Inc. expects to gain efficiency, improve the store's image, and increase gross sales. An additional benefit is the guarantee of the Park Place Hotel's banquet contract (estimated sales worth $200,000 to $300,000 annually) which is a condition of the lease agreement. The expanded space and promise of a lucrative contract make this relocation a financially sound decision.

Equipment Purchasing a computer with adequate software packages to satisfy our accounting needs is a priority. We expect to set up a system for $5,000. Cash registers for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building store, duplicates of the models currently used in the Phoenix Center, will cost $1,000. A zon machine (credit card data capture machine) costs approximately $300. The purchase and installation of telephones for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building will cost at the most $5,000. We plan to purchase used office equipment to supplement our existing fixtures. We plan to spend no more than $4,000 for office equipment.

Leasehold Improvements The bulk of the load will go towards leasehold improvements at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building store. These include:

• Air-conditioning
• Tile floorcovering
• New and upgraded lighting
• Structural repair to marble cooler
• General and specialty painting
• Check-out and design counters
• Other carpentry and metal work

We have asked our architect to work within the budget of $50 per square foot, or less, for these improvements not to exceed $80,000. Designs by Linda, Inc., along with Goble Management, are acting as general contractors and have begun to gather bids.

With the expected relocation of our current store in the Phoenix Center to the Promenade Level, certain leasehold improvements will be necessary including:

• Upgraded lighting
• Repairs to work counters and cabinets
• Repairs to glass doors
• Wallcoverings

A budget of $25 per square foot, not to exceed $30,000, is our starting point for this project as this space does not require the extensive repairs the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building site does.

Operating Capital The remaining monies, comprising most of the line of credit, will cover:

• Any cost overruns
• Start-up costs
• Moving expenses
• Initial advertising and promotional costs associated with the move and opening
• Additional tool purchases
• Security deposits
• FID and AFS wire service fees and membership expenses
• Additional insurance premiums.

Designs by Linda, Inc. has experienced trememdous growth and success in its first two years of existence. We have outgrown our current facility in the Phoenix Center. Our production has expanded far beyond what our current facilities can handle and it has hampered our ability to deliver quality service. Our primary goal is to increase customer satisfaction by providing quality products and attentive service. Relocation is the only answer to our problems with production and storage space. We believe our new stores within the Phoenix Center and in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building will satisfy current and future plans for expansion.

Both stores are located in areas where the demand for flowers has been proven. These locations have already established reputations as flower shops and, based on our experience with the Terra Viridis space, we know this is an advantage over an untried location.

Our recent successes have been, in part, a result of less competition. It is imperative that Designs by Linda, Inc. take advantage of this opportunity and move quickly to capture business left in a void by the recent closing of our main competitor, Henry's Horticulturals. We are better suited to do this than other downtown florists because of our key commercial accounts and the customer loyalty we have built over the last two years.

By expanding our production facilities and client base, Designs by Linda, Inc. will have positioned itself as the dominant florist in both the downtown and University District area. Because our reputation is established with the down-town work force (most of whom reside in the suburbs), we have an added edge over suburban florists because their business rarely overflows their neighborhoods. This lays the groundwork for potential future growth into the suburbs.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building location will provide us with ample production and office space as well as being a desirable retail space. It is also very reasonably priced.

By moving to the Promenade Level of the Park Place Hotel, we would be guaranteed the Hotel's Banquet business with an annual value of $200,000 to $300,000. The 1,200 square feet of retail space is enough to insure that this would not become a satellite shop to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Building, but will be a full-service flower shop capable of satisfying the majority of what this location generated in terms of business.

Designs by Linda, Inc.'s two years in business has eliminated the time needed to experiment and establish management techniques that work the best for our company. We are confident that our success can be translated to more than one store.

To finance our planned expansion, we are asking for $100,000 which comprises loans and lines of credit. We are open to suggestions as to the best way to secure this type of financing. We welcome the chance to meet and interview with any prospective party interested and willing to help us excel.

Supplemental Materials

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Building lease and work letter, letters of intent, and architectural drawings are available upon request.

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