A thorough history of quality and a passion for greens is what defines Continental Floral Greens (CFG). The company's story started when the first property in 2010 close to the famous Mount St. Helens in Washington was acquired. From then, until this day, the love for greens has been spread worldwide, and the rest is history. Comprised of a fantastic team of professionals who renamed the business 'Continental Floral Greens' it has carved and adopted a new sense of leadership and forward-thinking strategies. Now, after a decade of growth and prosperity, CFG happily shares its story and top-notch foliage products with the world.
Continental Floral Greens - A Family Legacy With Rooted Core Values
As a family-owned and operated business, the business places a strong emphasis on its core values. Their mission is to build a lasting, efficient, innovative, and ethically responsible business that values integrity, community, and quality, reflecting the vision of its founders. CFG’s family-oriented approach permeates every aspect of its operations, fostering a work culture firmly entrenched in collaboration, responsibility, and dedication.
This focus on lasting relationships—whether with employees, clients, or suppliers—sets them apart in the industry, hence emphasizing the importance of working in an environment and company that has firm core values that aim to be respected, maintained, and worked through every day. At the end of the day, the entire team behind CFG has a goal in mind: to build a company that lasts for generations to come.
Jim Milgard, CEO and Founder shares:
“Our company values are inspired by the family values that I hold dear, these values are our North Star, building decisions that will inspire and impact generations to come. We are committed to building a 100-year company that is built to last, when we plant a seedling we are making a 50-year-long business decision. Our focus isn’t on making quarterly numbers for shareholders; being privately held we prioritize choices that will resonate through generations, affecting our employees, stakeholders, and communities."
A Strong Tie and Drive Towards Sustainability
Sustainability is at the core of CFG’s operations. Owning and managing farms across the U.S. allows them to implement eco-friendly practices that protect the environment while ensuring product quality. This approach also strengthens local economies and allows for transparency and control over every step of the farming process. But it's not only that!
For them, sustainability isn’t just about preserving land but also about creating a supportive workforce and structure while implementing practices that benefit both people and nature. Through various programs and certifications, they work toward a lasting positive impact on their farms and communities. Planting each tree symbolizes a long-term investment, aimed at nurturing the land for the next fifty years. Continental’s vision is to build a future where sustainable agriculture supports both the environment and local communities. Learn more about the certifications that make them a sustainable business for the industry on CFG's website.
"We Are the Farm" - A National Footprint
With farms and facilities in key locations across the U.S., including Texas, Washington, North Carolina, and California, they have a strong, established presence in the domestic foliage market. This direct ownership allows CFG to control quality from planting to harvest, ensuring that each product meets high standards. These farms are integral to their commitment to sustainability, enabling the company to cultivate greens in a way that respects local ecosystems and minimizes environmental impact.
A Unique Niche - Specialty Farm to Market
Having recently celebrated their 10 year anniversary in October, Continental Floral Greens is all about bringing top-tier florals straight from their fields to the market. With over 80 varieties of foliage and flowers, they've positioned a spot in the world of specialty farm-to-market products, providing wholesalers and retailers with supreme quality and freshness.
This year, they're ecstatic to introduce a 'Wedding Collection', designed especially to create memorable occasions and experiences—think garlands and candle rings, handmade to add that extra spice of beauty. Plus, they've also expanded their 'Just Add Blooms®' collection, which gives you all you need for a strong base that’s ready to shine either alone or be enhanced with flowers of your choice. And for something extra special, their new metallic painted line coming from North Carolina adds a perfect shimmer for those moments that call for a little more poise.
From Greenery to Greatness to Finished Products That Elevate Every Display
There's more than just bulk greenery provided by CFG. Alongside their extensive selection, they offer a line of finished products designed to enrich retail displays and reflect their innovative techniques through nature’s finest. Their initial journey started with Christmas, and from September to November, the team is fully involved in creating a seasonal collection that includes wreaths, garlands, centerpieces, and the essentials—bulk greenery, dried items, painted products, and Just Add Blooms® bouquets ready to inspire.
At the heart of the company is a simple yet powerful philosophy as shared by Jim Milgard:
"We're changing the industry with great product and great people. Everyone we hire shares a passion for what we do, grasping innovation through Mother Nature. Our team resonates with our product because we are not just selling a commodity; we are selling happiness."
An Assortment of Foliage That Florists Love
CFG’s wide assortment of greens has made it a go-to for florists seeking quality and variety. From classic staples like ferns and Eucalyptus to unique products like Ilex and Flowering Branches, they provide an extensive selection that meets the diverse needs of floral designers. These varieties not only enhance the creative potential of arrangements but also ensure that florists have access to fresh, durable greens year-round.
A Decade of Providing Top-Tier Foliage
After more than a decade of growth, they continue to lead in the foliage market by upholding its values and devotion to providing excellent, top-quality products. The combination of family-driven purpose, diverse product offerings, and proof of sustainable practices and results has solidified CFG’s position as a trusted name for high-quality greens. As florists and designers increasingly seek products that align with their values, their differentiated approach stands out as a model of responsible business in the floral industry.
Photos courtesy of CFG.
