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With Valentine’s Day behind us, I hope and trust that you experienced a good and satisfactory holiday.
In the coming weeks, the flower industry is gearing up for a series of floral conventions and gatherings, including Next Gen LIVE in Raleigh, NC, Tradewinds Farm Direct Floral Show in Las Vegas, NV, WFFSA’s Floral Distribution Conference in Miami, FL, and Great Lakes Floral & Event Expo (GLFEE) in Grand Rapids, MI. CalFlowers will be represented at these events, and we look forward to seeing many of you there.
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On a very sad note, Benno Dobbe, a longtime American flower farmer who immigrated to this country a few years before I did, passed away on February 5th. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, perseverance, and hard work, a true champion of American flower farming. He will be greatly missed.
Benno, my good friend, rest in peace.
Lane DeVries
President of CalFlowers
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In Loving Memory of Benno Dobbe
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Bernardus Adrianus Petrus “Benno” Dobbe, founder of Holland America Flowers passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 75.
Born on November 12, 1950, in the Netherlands, Benno immigrated to the United States in 1980 with his wife, Klazina Dobbe, their three young children, ten suitcases, and $2,000. Shortly after settling in Woodland Washington, he founded Holland America Bulb Farms and later expanded into California with All Seasons Flowers in Arroyo Grande California. The operations merged in 2006 to form Holland America Flowers. Read more.
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Valentine's Day 2026 Industry Snapshot
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Valentine’s Day 2026 brought a great deal of uncertainty heading into the season.
The holiday fell on a Saturday.
Freight costs remained elevated.
Labor expenses continued to rise.
Tariff discussions added pricing concerns.
Weather disruptions affected parts of the country.
So how did the U.S. floral industry perform?
Based on peer-to-peer outreach across growers, wholesalers, retailers, and e-commerce operators, a consistent pattern emerged...Read more.
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Engagement Opportunity: Request Congress to Support Economic Aid for Specialty Crop Growers
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Congress is actively discussing a new farm aid package that could provide targeted relief for specialty crop growers, and we need you to contact your elected representatives to ensure ornamental and nursery crops are fully included.
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The specialty crop industry contributes more than $75 billion annually and accounts for over one-third of U.S. crop sales, yet growers continue to face rising labor and input costs, lost markets, disaster impacts, and increased import competition.
AmericanHort has made it easy to Contact Your Members of Congress today. You do not need to be a member to participate.
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Participate in Green Career Week, March 2-6
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Seed Your Future created Green Career Week to help you reach the next generation of professionals. Green Career Week is a national initiative led by industry professionals like you to increase awareness about green industry careers and help build relationships with local schools, colleges and universities.
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During Green Career Week, participating businesses and organizations will connect with local schools, colleges and universities to showcase the various career paths at their business. Learn more.
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"Life In Bloom" News Roundup from J Schwanke
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Behind the Bloom Podcast, with Lane DeVries airs Monday February 16, 2026
I’m so excited for the NEW Behind the Bloom podcast with myself and RJ Pole, with our very first guest, Lane DeVries! I hope you’ll give it a listen! (Psst… NEW podcasts are available on my YouTube channel and uBloom.com before it drops anywhere else.) Read more.
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AFE Marks 65 Years of Investing in the Floral Industry's Future
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For 65 years, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) has stood at the heart of the floral industry’s progress, funding research, education, and professional development that has fueled progress and helped the floral community grow, adapt, and thrive.
Established in 1961, AFE was founded with a clear purpose: to ensure a strong, sustainable future for floriculture through industry-driven investment. Since then, the Endowment has provided more than $23 million in funding for critical research, educational grants, scholarships, and internship programs — support that continues to shape the industry today. Read more.
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2026 Grow Pro Webinar Lineup
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The lineup for AFE’s 2026 Grow Pro Webinar series is here! From production challenges to emerging trends, these free-to-attend sessions are designed to give growers practical, research-backed strategies they can use right away.
Register ahead and share these great educational sessions with your team! Join throughout the year to learn, connect, and stay ahead in the ever-evolving, growing environment.
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Do you have floral news you want to share with the CalFlowers community?
Please contact us.
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Fun 'N Sun Booth & Tabletop Registration is Open!
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Exhibitor registration for Fun ’N Sun 2026 is officially open — and spaces are going quickly!
Join us August 5–8, 2026 at The Langham Huntington in Pasadena as we celebrate “A Legacy in Bloom — 85 Years of Floral Excellence.”
The Flower Fair is the heart of Fun ’N Sun — where connections are made, products are discovered, and business relationships grow.
Booth & Tabletop Pricing
(Same pricing as 2024)
- Single Booth: $1,750
- Double Booth: $2,600 — ONLY ONE LEFT!
- Tabletop: $975
If you’ve been considering exhibiting, now is the time. Secure your space and be part of this milestone celebration before it’s gone!
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FedEx Updates:
The FedEx Money-Back Guarantee was reinstated for eligible U.S. domestic services on January 13, 2026. Services include Priority Overnight, Standard Overnight and 2Day A.M. Keep in mind our contact includes a 1-hour grace period when requesting a Money Back Guarantee.
For those of you that missed our recent email last month, CalFlowers secured significant contact improvements relating to Pick-ups and Demand fees. Currently in effect, these improvements include:
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- Peak / Demand Surcharge: 60% discount
- Same-Day On-Call Pick-Up Fee: 100% discount
- Future-Day On-Call Pick-Up Fee: 100% discount
- Residential On-Call Pick-Up Surcharge: 50% discount
- Pick-Up Area Surcharge: 35% discount
- Extended Pick-Up Area Surcharge: 35% discount
- Remote Pick-Up Area Surcharge: 35% discount
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These improvements will have a notable and significant effect on lowing your costs in terms of fees and surcharges especially since we are in the FedEx “Peak/Demand” season. Members receive 60% off Peak/Demand seasonal surcharges.
As a follow-up to Chris' recent email regarding Pick-up fees, that information is still the best information we have to this date. If you have a regular scheduled daily pick-up with FedEx, you will see a fee close to $34.00. To get around this fee we suggest using FedEx On-Call to schedule a pick-up when needed. You can do this online, or by phone. By using this method, you should not see a fee applied to your invoice. If you do see a pick-up fee, please email Chris at chris@cafgs.org. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
See HERE for a summary from FedEx that sheds some light on some of these fees you may be seeing. It’s a good reference.
Also, there have been reports that FedEx has “accurized” their automated scanning machines that dimensionalize boxes sent through the system. This has been confirmed. These machines with sophisticated lasers are now even more accurate than before thus showing boxes larger than what was previously listed. In other words, your box is probably going to show LARGER than expected. For example, a 20 x 8 x 6, may now show as 21 x 9 x 7. This will result in price changes if your box is sensitive to size in terms of pricing. There are other fees that you may see on your statement and the above link can help make sense of it. CalFlowers is currently negotiating some of these fees and we should have news soon on how we did.
For those of you that haven’t heard, FedEx is spinning off its Freight (pallet) business. Most FedEx Freight accounts are stand-alone agreements, but we have ours built into our overall contract. Members still have Freight rates at 89% discount. How does this change affect CalFlowers? No changes as of today but more information will be coming next year. Read HERE for more details.
With the winter season here, it’s an essential practice to check for any service delays or alerts before you ship, and the best resource for that information can be found HERE. Knowing what to expect before you ship can limit any unexpected delays and headaches.
FedEx International Shipping:
See here for an excellent resource from FedEx that walks shippers through the process step by step. First time international shippers inherently have questions on the process and paperwork required. If you'd like to talk to someone in person whether on the phone or at FedEx office, assistance available when needed.
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Additional Reminders:
Although FedEx First Overnight is available to any FedEx customer, it is HIGHLY recommended that you do not select this service unless it is absolutely necessary and you fully understand the pricing. FedEx First Overnight (8am) is a remarkable service but please understand FedEx does not discount this option. Rates are VERY expensive and cannot be re-rated once shipped.
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Although FedEx First Overnight is available to any FedEx customer, it is HIGHLY recommended that you do not select this service unless it is absolutely necessary and you fully understand the pricing. FedEx First Overnight (8am) is a remarkable service but please understand FedEx does not discount this option. Rates are VERY expensive and cannot be re-rated once shipped.
Did you know that our Priority Overnight rates (10:30am delivery), typically are only a few dollars more than Standard Overnight? The Standard Overnight delivery commitment is around 5 hours later (3:30pm), which can make a difference with many varieties in terms of arrival condition. Take a look - you will be surprised how close these rates are.
Your shipping platform may not allow you to book a shipment to arrive on Saturday. To get around this, shippers need to go to FedEx.com and book it manually. This will allow Saturday delivery zones and times to show up.
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You can have your shipments held at your nearby FedEx Office instead of being delivered to your door. Having shipments held at your local FedEx office can help with temperature management since your boxes will be stored in a temperature-controlled office rather than riding in a truck all morning. It’s also true that you can drop off your shipments at your local FedEx office. This can be an advantage for some parts of the country where having your packages standing by in a FedEx office is preferable to being in a truck for hours.
For those wanting to know who your FedEx representative is, or if you want to be contacted by FedEx, please email Chris Johnson with your FedEx account number and he will respond with your FedEx contact. It’s a good practice to establish a relationship with your FedEx representative. They can be of great assistance when needed.
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Surcharges & Claims Resources:
For those members looking for general information on Surcharges and Claims, the following resources can be helpful.
This first resource offers information regarding surcharges and fees. Keep in mind that the CalFlowers program offers members MANY surcharge and fee reductions that are significantly lower than these standard surcharges, however it’s still a good reference point and has some clear definitions on what each fee/surcharge is. If you would like a summary of your program surcharge/fee discounts and waivers, please check our website or email Chris Johnson for a copy.
The second resource is very helpful when you need to file a claim for damaged or lost product. Keep in mind, a product claim is different from our Money Back Guarantee, which applies to shipping charges and is handled differently. Product claims are more involved and can be confusing, but this resource helps navigate the process.
FedEx New Member Resources:
New members who are just starting with FedEx shipping can utilize the “Customer Training” service that is available upon request. This service offers shippers direct one-on-one assistance from FedEx covering many of the questions new shippers may have. If you are interested in signing up, please contact Chris Johnson. Visit this webpage for excellent information for new shippers and a summary of FedEx's offerings.
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Call (877) 339-2774 for FedEx’s tech support team, who can help with many tech-related issues including guidance regarding on-line shipping platforms.
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Find the latest news from FedEx here.
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We would like to remind members to stay current with their FedEx Express shipping invoices. FedEx payment terms are 15 days. All members shipping on FedEx Express are expected to stay within the FedEx payment terms. Failure to stay current with FedEx risks your account being delinked from the program. For more information on this issue, contact Chris Johnson, Dir of Transportation. To obtain your invoice details and payment options, please contact FedEx Customer Service.
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GLS Updates:
Please note: GLS pricing for 2026 is in effect. We are pleased to report rates will only increase on average by 3.5% as compared to the GLS scheduled 5.9%. New updated program info and rates are available on our website.
GLS added automated sortation systems to hubs in California, Las Vegas! See here for more for more info on GLS’s new automated sort.
The CalFlowers GLS program is one of our popular, most value-priced offerings, with discounts well over 70% off standard rates. GLS offers later pick-ups and earlier deliveries while providing express door-to-door services covering CA, AZ, NV, OR, WA, NM, UT, and ID. Members who want to ship on GLS must sign up in advance. It’s easy and just takes a few minutes. Please contact Chris Johnson for more details at (760) 533-5580 or chris@cafgs.org.
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Check out the GLS interactive Time-in-Transit map. Plug in your ZIP code and a handy map will show you your 1-day, 2-day transportation options.
GLS Program Improvements:
GLS has been very receptive to our requests for program improvements. They have added the following features to our program for members to utilize when shipping Priority.
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GLS will now honor product claims. If GLS is at fault (acts of God, not included) and the product arrives damaged, significantly late, or just missing, members now can file a claim. We highly recommend member shippers to indicate the correct Declared Value to be covered.
GLS will credit 100% of shipping costs if your shipment is not delivered on the day promised. Bad weather is excluded. Members will need to request this within 48 hours at customerservice@gls-us.com.
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GLS has given our account access to a special premium team of Customer Service agents. This high-level group was designed for fast response and problem solving. Please contact Chris Johnson for access to this important resource.
GLS has an updated website. Additionally, try this handy Delivery Rates & Times Calculator to view delivery dates and estimated time of arrival.
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Alaska Air Cargo Updates:
As you may know, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are merging. Due to this merger, Alaska has asked us to pause adding new shippers to our program while they combine operational systems. This pause is temporary, and we will notify members when we get the “go ahead” to add shippers to this signature program.
Alaska has also been keeping shippers up to date on the progress of the merger. Click HERE for the latest in booking and information.
If you've been using our new CalFlowers/Alaska Airlines shipping program, you’ve likely experienced its exceptional value. This program provides outstanding rates to numerous regions nationwide, including shipments from California, Portland, Seattle, and Alaska.
For 2025, we have renewed our contract with Alaska Cargo and are pleased to announce no change in pricing! Look for more information coming soon and be sure to explore all program details on our website.
Did you know Alaska Airlines provides one of the most comprehensive intra-California services, with San Diego serving as its largest hub in the state? Even better, through our exclusive partnership with Alaska Airlines, we offer truly exceptional rates that you won’t find anywhere else. Click HERE for the latest Alaska Air Cargo Zone Map.
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For the latest News & Updates please visit the Alaska Airlines webpage.
For the latest in Alaska Cargo News see here.
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Alaska Air commonly asked questions.
For questions about our Alaska Air Cargo program, please contact Chris Johnson, (760) 533-5580.
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Air Canada Cargo Updates:
In case you missed it, we now have Air Canada rates available to our membership! They can be viewed on our website. These are the standard Floral Rates from Air Canada, and they offer good value. However, we are currently working with Air Canada with the goal of securing exclusive rates for CalFlower members. More information to follow.
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NextGen – Attending NextGen? Be sure to stop by the CalFlowers tabletop and connect with CalFlowers President Lane DeVries. We’d love to see you there! View The Full Schedule.
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Tradewinds Farm Direct Floral Conference – Going to Vegas for the TWI Floral Show? Be sure to introduce yourself to Lane DeVries. Don't Miss Out!
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Tradewinds International is bringing its most anticipated Farm Direct Floral Show to Las Vegas, Nevada (Feb 25-26), joining together leading growers and breeders in 80+ booths with flower buyers seeking the latest and highest-quality cut flowers available on the market today.
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Designed to deliver full-service solutions that enable floral companies of all sizes to purchase fresh flowers directly from 125+ farms across South America and beyond, Tradewinds provides competitive logistics programs, e-commerce tools, web portals, expert buying assistance, and value-added operational support. Their biennial show provides attendees the opportunity to meet with farms face-to-face, explore new varieties, and set themselves up for smarter, more strategic flower buying in the year ahead. Click HERE to learn more.
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The Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers (ASCFG) is pleased to announce its 2026 Farm Tour Schedule. ASCFG Farm Tours are generously hosted by ASCFG Members. Considering the variety of cut flower crops, production methods, marketing, and sales systems that will be highlighted on these tours, you’re likely to learn a little bit of everything from the hosts and fellow attendees. Registration and farm tour details may be found here.
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Member Spotlight
Mountain Flower Farm
Mountain Flower Farm is a Vermont-based peony and specialty cut-flower grower serving professional designers, farmer-florists, and production farms nationwide for over 25 years. Known for its rigor in variety trialing, soil-first organic stewardship, and unwavering reliability, the farm specializes in premium peony roots and seasonal cut flowers bred and grown for performance—not novelty.
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New member types have been implemented - thank you for your assistance!
Read full updates here.
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Grower
Alyeska Farms LLC
Soldotna, AK
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Retail
Damselfly Global LLC
North White Plains, NY
Edler Acres
Ontario, NY
Its Blooming
Marlboro Township, NJ
Ruby Lovely
Portsmouth, VA
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Wholesaler
Petal Collective Wholesale
Mobile, AL
Royal Imports
Brooklyn, NY
Zoom Roses
Irving, TX
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Associate
MB Biosciences LLC
Natick, MA
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CalFlowers is thrilled to continue our annual Membership Drive (Jan-Mar 2026) to further strengthen connections across every facet of the floral supply chain. New members can save $100 on their membership application by using the code BLOOM26.
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We love our existing members and are hosting a referral program throughout the duration of the Membership Drive. Congratulations to our January winner, Tradewinds Intl!
Thank you for being an essential part of the CalFlowers community. Your support makes CalFlowers the thriving, connected, and welcoming network it is.
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Member Benefit Spotlight
Membership Directory
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The 2026-2027 Membership Directory is here!
Connect with peers and prospects, source florals and foliage, partner with advertisers and service providers. Find what you need and more in the directory- coming to a doorstep near you!
Thank you to our advertisers for showcasing your products and services in the 2026-2026 edition of the membership directory. Show them some love.
Access the online membership directory HERE. Filter by location, member type, floral availability and more.
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