Analysis of Michigan full-service retail florist businesses by annual gross sales

Comprehensive industry statistics are valuable tools for small business own ers and managers. The traditional full-service retail florist competes with supermarkets, limited-service flower shops, corner vendors, and telemarket ing, catalog, and Internet firms, Although some retail florist business inf ormation does exist on a national basis, none specifically addresses Michig an florists. In Mar. 1996, a comprehensive mail survey of Michigan full-ser vice retail florists was conducted with the cooperation of the Michigan Flo ral Association. The survey focused on 1995 general business operations, de livery services, advertising and marketing practices, staffing and wages, a nd financial status. Statistical analyses showed total wage expenses and oc cupancy costs to be major factors controlling net profits. The cost of deli very service and wire service membership also affected profitability. Full- service retail florists must examine and modify the cost structure of their businesses to generate the highest possible net profits.