Flowers from different farms all over the world find their way into the market through importers and wholesale buyers. These dealers then distribute the flowers to the retail florists in malls or neighborhood shops. Retail florists are usually located within one district of the city, the one nearest to the dealer or ports. Close distances to the sources ensure the freshness of the flowers and lessen the cost of transport and risk of damage and spoilage.

With faster transportation, improved logistical infrastructures for importing and exporting goods, and the growing diversity of tastes and preferences of those who populate cities, more exotic and hard-to-come-by flowers are being made available in most retail florists. Competition among these florists has also encouraged each one to offer specializations and expertise. Some florists hold diploma courses in design and boast of awards won in national and international competitions in flower arrangements. This has led to the creation of various flower arrangements available for the customers to choose from.

Selling flowers has become a lucrative business as people are finding more reasons and occasions to use flowers. Some retail florists have transformed their businesses and gone to the next level by branding their products. They sell what are known as designer blooms. These retail florists have branches or franchises across the country, and even in other parts of the world.

Giving flowers are not the cheapest way to express your feelings or convey a message. Designer blooms have given retail florists the prestige of jewelry or clothes designers. Retail florists who have gone into the business of designer blooms offer top-of-the-line flowers suited for very special occasions or as gifts for celebrities and very important clients and bosses.