Mercabarna-flor expects to sell seven million roses this Sant Jordi
Mercabarna-flor, a company based in Sant Boi, has announced that it expects to sell seven million roses this Sant Jordi. However, they have warned that this will be the last year in which locally produced roses will be marketed. This decision has been taken due to the lack of generational relief in the floristry sector.
Origin of flowers and restrictions due to the pandemic
According to the president of the Mercabarna-flor Wholesale Guild, Miquel Batlle, most of the flowers that will be sold come from Colombia, but there will also be roses from Ecuador and the Netherlands. In addition, this Sant Jordi will be the first non-holiday day after the restrictions imposed by the pandemic (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
Sales prospects and economic impact
The president of Mercabarna, Jordi Valls, who is also councilor for Economy in Barcelona, has emphasized that a crowded Sant Jordi is expected and that sales of roses will increase by 20% compared to last year. In addition, he recalled that Sant Jordi’s Day concentrates 30% of Catalonia’s sales in a year. This means a significant economic impact for the sector (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
Roses of local production and infrastructure
Miquel Batlle has pointed out that it is currently not profitable to produce the volume of roses that Sant Jordi demands. In addition, he emphasized that well-built infrastructures are needed, which involve a considerable economic investment. However, he has stated that there is land to grow roses, but the lack of people willing to do so is an obstacle.
Price of the roses and origin of the products
The price of roses this Sant Jordi will be from four euros. This figure can vary depending on the added value that the florist wants to give to his product. Most of the roses come from Colombia, as it is the main producing country and offers quality fresh roses. However, this year there have been problems with Ecuador due to climatic factors, which has affected the production of red roses (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/) .
Rose plants and popularity of the red rose
In addition to cut roses, rose plants are also being sold, as they allow you to enjoy the Sant Jordi festival for longer. According to florist Josep Reig, the red rose is the most in demand, representing between 90% and 95% of sales. However, roses of different colors are also purchased to accompany the red rose (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
Future perspectives and impact of Sant Jordi
Despite the current difficulties, Miquel Batlle has predicted a good future for the flower sector, as Sant Jordi is a holiday that has become popular over the years. Although there has not been a significant increase in sales in the last two or three decades, the demand for roses has grown steadily.