.jpg) Mike McCabeMy main goal is to keep OFA strong. It is a great organization and a leader in the horticulture industry. I want to make more people aware of the value OFA has to offer. Personally, OFA started as an educational tool, but now it has also opened so many doors. It has allowed me to network with industry leaders and to keep up with the ever-changing market. Reaching out to the industry Since I have been on the OFA board, I keep pushing to strengthen the garden center and retail florist segments of the association. One of the ways that the association is trying to strengthen its affiliation with these segments is through outreach programs. The association will be holding the Grow & Sell for Profit Conference, Nov. 8-9, in Raleigh, N.C. The association is hoping to reach out to more garden centers at this educational conference. I think OFA’s Generation Next committee is doing an outstanding job of reaching out to the younger generations. The association offers a scholars program where students from universities nationwide have an opportunity to experience the OFA Short Course. The association offers a student discount for the Short Course educational sessions. The Generation Next committee has also selected speakers that address issues of importance to young adults. Inviting the students to OFA allows them to see just how big the floriculture industry is, and it can help to open doors in regards to job opportunities. Also, the Unplugged event during the Short Course has been a huge success. It enables young people to get together and network with each other. .jpg) Since Mike McCabe owns a retail greenhouse operation, he has the opportunity to see what consumers are buying. In his store, consumers want bigger plants, ready-made containers and 4- and 6-inch pots instead of cell packs.Reaching out to consumersWhen the economy took a hit, consumers became more aware of their finances and started living within their means. I think it will take this generation a little while to forget the economic troubles and tighten down on careless spending. Consumers are now more particular on what and how they are going to spend their money. A major trend in our store [McCabe’s Greenhouse and Floral in Lawrenceburg, Ind.] is consumers want instant gratification. They are buying bigger plants and ready-made containers. They are buying less packs and flats and wanting 4- and 6-inch containers and larger tubs of flowers. We have also noticed an increase in demand for tropical and tropical-looking plants. Looking ahead I’ll know that I had a successful term as OFA president if the association remains a strong organization that is considered to be the one to turn to by growers, garden center operators, florists and interiorscapers. Several other industry organizations are hurting and losing members. I don’t think the organization needs to make any radical changes, but it should always be striving to make improvements. I don’t want the association to lose its identity. OFA is lucky to have an amazing staff, dedicated board and committee members to keep driving OFA forward. For more: McCabe’s Greenhouse & Floral, (812) 537-4525; www.mccabesflowers.com. |
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