Valentine’s Day is the most important time of year for the floral industry in Ecuador, impacting everyone involved. During this season, flower demand increases significantly, and the entire industry focuses on ensuring flowers arrive on time and in excellent condition. In 2024, Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport handled 26,266 metric tons of flowers during Valentine’s season, the largest volume in its eleven years of operation, as shared by the magazine 'Ecuador y sus Flores'. This was a 17.3% increase compared to 2023. Make sure to tune into this article to learn interesting insights and facts on how Ecuadorian cargo agencies are preparing for one of the busiest holidays of the year.
The Importance of Valentine’s Day for Ecuador’s Flower Industry
Did you know that Ecuadorian flowers make up 92% of the cargo leaving Quito Airport? These high-quality grown flowers are shipped to over fifty countries thanks to their long stems, unique colors, and extended shelf life. Recently, the team behind Ecuador y sus Flores magazine spoke with four cargo agencies—Direct Cargo, EBF Cargo, Logike Cargo, and Flowercargo—to understand how they are preparing for the season. Their collective goal is to exceed last year’s export numbers through strategic planning and efficient processes. Here's what they had to say and contribute to the busiest season of the year, giving some tips and tricks on how to handle the challenges.
How Floral Cargos and Agencies are Preparing for The Most Romantic Season of the Year
The preparation for Valentine’s Day in Ecuador’s floral industry is a collaborative effort, with cargo agencies like the above mentioned implementing detailed strategies to handle the increased demand and ensure flowers arrive fresh and on time. Many people don't realize the immense and arduous work and effort put behind every single stem that gets exported not only for Valentine's Day but for any important season for the floral industry.
Photo: Pinterest
Logike Cargo has focused its efforts on key areas to ensure smooth operations for Valentine’s Day. The process begins by gathering estimates from farms, distributors, and importers about the additional flower volumes they plan to ship during the season. This information is then used to negotiate rates and secure space with airlines and shipping companies. Internally, resources like transportation, staffing, and storage are carefully allocated to manage the surge in demand during this critical period.
Given flowers' perishable nature, maintaining optimal conditions throughout the transportation chain is a top priority. Every shipment is assessed based on its destination to determine the best routes, transit times, and handling procedures. Temperature controls and pricing considerations are also factored in to ensure the flowers retain their quality until they reach their destination.
Photos by Plantec, Rosaprima, and Mystic Flowers
On the other hand, timely delivery is CRUCIAL, if not one of the most important aspects cargo agencies need to meet, especially for Valentine’s Day, where deadlines are non-negotiable. Efficient routes are selected, shipments are monitored in real-time, and any potential disruptions are proactively managed to avoid delays.
EBG Cargo - Planning Detailedly and Strategically
Another Ecuadorian cargo agency, 'EBF Cargo' is another great example of how teamwork makes the dream work during these incredibly busy holidays for the industry. As part of successful planning and goal achievement, they are approaching Valentine’s Day with advanced planning and a focus on efficiency. They have arranged for additional cargo planes specifically designed for large flower volumes. These planes feature temperature and humidity control systems to maintain freshness. Coordination with Quito Airport has been strengthened to streamline dispatches, and the team has undergone training to handle flowers with care. Nonetheless, real-time monitoring technology has been implemented to oversee conditions throughout the journey, ensuring flowers arrive in pristine condition.
Last but not least, Direct Cargo is another of many Ecuadorian cargo agencies that are leveraging their extensive experience in managing Valentine’s shipments. In their case, early planning has allowed them to estimate volumes and reserve space for clients effectively. To expand their global reach, they have partnered with shipping companies to increase cargo capacity significantly. This approach ensures shipments reach destinations worldwide, including Los Angeles, Chile, Europe, Miami, and Asia. In addition, they have introduced vacuum cooling systems, which are essential for preserving the freshness of flowers over extended periods.
Photo: Rosaprima
A Coordinated Industry Effort for Valentine’s Day Success
Flowercargo is taking a similar proactive approach by expanding its cold storage facilities. New infrastructure is expected to be ready in time to handle the season’s demands. The company has also secured airspace well in advance to accommodate all client orders. Increased storage, refrigerated transport, additional staff, and streamlined processes for customer service and operations are all part of their strategy.
Valentine’s Day preparations involve a coordinated effort across the floral industry, from farms to distributors and cargo agencies. Every player has a critical role in ensuring that flowers reach their final destinations in perfect condition. This season is not shows the strongest devotion and passion to the industry but also a pivotal moment for its economic impact. Together, all parties strive to deliver the best flowers Ecuador has to offer to customers around the world.
Facts and information retrieved from Ecuador y sus Flores.
