The American Floral Endowment believes continuing education is vital to the floral industry, particularly for small business owners and employees who rely on ongoing learning to remain inspired and competitive. To help make these opportunities more accessible, several grant programs support retail florists traveling to industry events, conferences and workshops where they can build skills, strengthen their businesses and spark creativity.

This year, five individuals received support through three travel education grant funds: the Retail Florist’s Continued Education Grant; the Ken and Jean

CalFlowers announced the appointment of Gustavo Gilchrist, president of Kennicott Bros. Co., to its Board of Directors. Gilchrist joins the CalFlowers Board alongside Julie Ortiz and John Louie, whose appointments were announced previously.

Gilchrist brings extensive executive leadership, global business experience, and a strong commitment to industry collaboration to the CalFlowers Board. He currently serves as president of Kennicott Bros. Co., one of the largest floral wholesale distribution companies in the United States. Founded in 1881 and headquartered in Chicago, Kennicott Brothers

Hans Peters will step down as CEO for Horticulture & Building Automation as of Feb. 1, 2026 Meiny Prins, executive chairman of the Priva Group, together with the Board, has re-allocated his responsibilities within the organization.

Over the course of time, it became clear that visions differ on several themes. In the end, the company decided to end the collaboration. The decision was made thoughtfully and with mutual respect and appreciation.

“Hans Peters has contributed to the development of Priva in various roles with great dedication and commitment over the past three years. We are grateful

The start of a new year marks a moment of renewal and anticipation. Royal FloraHolland auctioneer Erik Boland offers a look at the fast-moving world of flowers and plants, where trends, opportunities and seasons continue to shift. He invites readers to take inspiration from what lies ahead and to keep growing together.

Best wishes

On behalf of the auctioneers at Royal FloraHolland, Boland extends wishes for a successful and, above all, healthy 2026, both professionally and personally. He notes that the new year brings fresh opportunities and meaningful moments and encourages the sector to

Alexandra Farms' David Austin Wedding Roses offer a curated alternative to trend-driven sources and focus on a luxurious, monochromatic aesthetic. From bouquets to table arrangements, each element is intentional, cohesive and understated.

The featured rose varieties each has distinct character. Patience has for luminous, ruffled ivory petals and soft elegance, while Leonora offers sculptural romance. Purity conveys understated sophistication, Eugenie adds delicate charm,and Bessie contributes depth with a color-transitioning cup. Enid introduces richness that enhanced layered floral designs

Bailey Nurseries announced several additions and promotions within its sales organization, expanding its leadership team and regional coverage as the company continued to grow its reach and partnerships.

AJ Lambert was appointed chief sales officer, strengthening the company’s executive leadership. Dan Heintz was promoted to sales manager for mass merchant accounts, and Bret Poi and Rhett Pasour joined the company as territory sales representatives serving the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, respectively.

Lambert brought more than 20 years of sales leadership experience, including more than