Among the five focus pillars of AFE is the important branch of research. This area guides the industry’s current practices to new heights in sustainability, improved methods and revolutionary discoveries. To help facilitate this mission, AFE has expanded their team to include Laura Barth – AFE’s research coordinator.

Research is a continuous top priority for AFE’s funding. Research helps AFE provide the best and most current information and solutions to pressing issues in the industry. Laura will work alongside Dr. Terril Nell, AFE’s current research director of 8 years, to pursue and

NASDAQ and Broadway Plaza billboards are being taken over by New York City’s Starbright Floral Design. In celebration of the return of tourism, the return to offices and the return of NYC in full bloom; the biggest billboards in Times Square will become a feast for the eyes.

Starbright started by making its name as a florist to the hospitality industry in 1994. On Tuesday Sept. 6, Starbright is celebrating the start of its 29th year by thanking the core industries that have made Starbright the florist of choice, elevated to a level that most florists, have never seen. This coming Tuesday

Due to Peter Persoon's unexpected passing, a vacancy has arisen on the board of the Beekenkamp Group. Beekenkamp Group is working to fill this vacancy as soon as possible. Erik Leeuwaarden is currently taking over the duties of Peter Persoon.

Erik Leeuwaarden is a member of the supervisory board of the Beekenkamp Group. Erik has been active as financial director of Royal FloraHolland for more than 20 years. Erik, together with An Beekenkamp, ​​Marc Driessen and Peter Zaat, will form the board of directors of the Beekenkamp Group in the coming period.

The New England Produce Council’s 22nd annual Produce, Floral & Foodservice Expo was held Aug. 24-25 at the Omni at the Seaport Hotel in Boston. Floral industry members in attendance showcased their products for a packed trade show floor. The show was a great opportunity to get facetime buyers in the New England area.

The floral industry is gearing up for the 2022 Fun N’ Sun convention, taking place Aug. 29-31 at the historic Hotel del Coronado in Coronado, CA. The convention is hosted by CalFlowers, a leading, national floral association with members across all industry segments in 47 states.

“This convention has been going on for a very long time,” said Steve Dionne, executive director of CalFlowers. “We have an every other year format, but we actually skipped last year because of COVID, so everyone is very excited to get together this year.”

This year marks the first time that the Fun N’ Sun convention

Taking that next career step is something to be proud of – let’s celebrate some of our industry’s next generation and their AFE internship awards!

This year, eight outstanding students will pursue a freshly awarded internship opportunity through AFE’s Vic & Margaret Ball Intern Scholarship Program and Mosmiller Intern Scholarship Program.

It is without a doubt that the next generation plays a significant role in the long-term success of our industry. “Investing in young professionals ensures they’re well equipped to bring lasting strength and innovation to the field. AFE’s Vic & Margaret