A Blooming Business

When you think about beautiful, enchanting orchids, a business opportunity is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. But perhaps it should. The International Society for Horticulture says orchids are in high demand, especially in the Caribbean, and interest is growing. These botanical beauties are used to show the exotic, untamed nature of the islands and appear in hotel lobbies, table settings and resort accommodations throughout the region. The hospitality industries use them to create an impression of inviting warmth and relaxation.

Giving visitors the warm, visual memories they expect is important to the Caribbean nations whose main revenueproducing industry is tourism. Lush, tropical environments and picturesque scenes are their most vital assets. And orchids play a large role in creating the ambiance desired by guests. But, tourists and tourism-related industries are not the only ones creating demand for the luxurious-looking flower. Locals love them too. In addition, more and more "baby boomers" from the United States are retiring to the islands and ex-patriots who have made their fortunes are returning as well. All these groups want to surround themselves with what they have come to believe is a symbol of their own "personal paradise".

It stands to reason, then, that the market for cut orchids and orchid plants will grow and continue to expand in the coming years. Nurseries, landscapers and developers will need to meet the needs of their clients. Hotels, golf courses and wedding venues (another important market sector) will want the flowers for floral arrangements and dining table settings. These groups, and the florist shops that supply them, have begun to look toward imports from Thailand as a way of meeting their needs. The nation has over forty years experience as an orchidexporting country and there are many advantages to working with Thailand's orchid growers. Their blooms are consistently beautiful and long lasting, and, they have effective shipping and delivery systems.

According to a Floricultural Industry report, Thailand is one of the leading producers of orchids and contributes 85% of the world's orchid exports. Good agricultural practices, quality assurance and proper packing have made Thailand a highly sought after, exporter of orchids, especially the Dendrobium orchid. Blessed with a favorable natural climate, Thailand produces a wide variety of exotic orchids and exports them in potted plant and cut flower form. Becoming an importer of Thai orchids or maybe even opening your own nursery could be an extremely profitable endeavor. You could be providing a much desired product to the florists, hotel chains and resorts of the Caribbean region.
For information about importing