Trends

January’s IPM Essen and Christmasworld, both in Germany, were a glimpse into the latest trends in flowers, plants, floral accessories, containers, merchandising and more. Some trends are continuations of colors and textures we are already familiar with while others are new and different. Here is a look at the latest consumer product and lifestyle directions showcased at recent trade show events in Germany.

At IPM Essen, more than 1,500 exhibitors from 46 countries showed their new products and innovations along the entire horticulture chain. This leading fair for horticulture focused on the society-defining subjects of sustainability and climate change. With the theme of consumers being “keen for green,” there was great emphasis on transparency, certifications and environmental awareness. Plants with storytelling and educational packaging were front and center to help consumers understand the story of the plants and their place in the environment.

Being kind to our planet remains a growing trend, along with being aware of our health and wellness. Also trending is fragrance in fresh flowers and plants as well as plants you can consume. Growing herbs and veggies at home, even in small urban spaces, is being encouraged with help from varieties being specifically developed for indoor growing. From tea to tomatoes, the trend is giving consumers the opportunity to have the experience of “growing” on many levels.

In the world of fresh flowers, FDF (Fachverband Deutscher Floristen), the trade association of German florists, provided an amazing look at color and lifestyle trends that influence flowers. Inspiration comes from a bright color palette of fresh flowers that highlights interior accessories with iridescence, metallic and transparent finishes. Also trending are soft textural flowers combined with curvy, rounded shapes and forms. Tactile materials such as wool, cotton and other soft “comfort” textures blend with fresh flowers to complement home interiors.

Christmasworld, in Frankfurt, blends traditional Christmas décor with trends in the floral merchandising, creative craft and stationery industries. The trends vary, but they all had a strong connected theme.

Natural surfaces, botanical influences, bright colors and cozy comfort were prominent throughout the exhibitions. The Floradecora area of Christmasworld highlighted different types of merchandising and display concepts for all segments of floral sales. Floradecora’s “Think Differently” Retail Boulevard presented several distinct aspects of retail: flower shops, garden centers, supermarkets and interiors stores, with well-lit display areas highlighting floral products. Display fixtures were repetitive and well-organized, creating clean and clutter-free merchandising. This section also featured color-blocking of products and lighting as a powerful way to attract consumers. Giving consumers choices while making the selection process straightforward and easy to shop was a theme throughout all the displays.

In Christmasworld, four trend color stories were introduced that will influence holiday consumers in 2019. Metallics blended with icy blue and lavender, cream, and neutral grays, for a calm and peaceful theme. Bright intense colors also make their way into Christmas palettes, with shimmering surfaces and rich textures. Cheerful and lighthearted colors, like gingerbread, strawberry, peach and evergreen, define a joyful trend that is classic but young and carefree. Nature also still stays in the forefront of holiday décor, with an updated palette of neutral, earthy colors like green, terra-cotta and stone.

We have an exciting year ahead as we watch these emerging trends evolve into innovative products that we can interpret to best connect with consumers.