Century-Old Floral Shop in Columbus Closes: A Sweet Farewell to Blooms

Kenny and Kinnear roads, Columbus, Ohio, USA - The floral business landscape is undergoing significant shifts, with recent news from Columbus, Ohio, where the historic 5th Avenue Floral Co. has closed after more than a century of service. Founded in 1901, this beloved establishment bid farewell to its loyal customers, marking the end of an era where Kim Fitz, the third-generation owner, has decided to retire and enjoy time with her numerous grandchildren. Located at the corner of Kenny and Kinnear roads, the shop prepared its final bouquet just days ago, officially closing its doors on June 7.

Kim Fitz took over the family business from her parents in 2008, continuing a legacy begun by her grandfather Roy Barber in the early 1950s. The flower shop originally operated on West 5th Avenue before moving to its current location in 1945, a building custom-designed for floral arrangements. Despite its rich history and notable clients such as OSU football coach Ryan Day and golf legend Jack Nicklaus, the shop faced increased competition from grocery stores and shifting trends in flower popularity. While roses remain a hot favorite, carnations have seen a decline in demand, reflecting broader changes within the floral industry.

The Global Floral Market

While 5th Avenue Floral Co. may have been a cherished local gem, it mirrors broader trends affecting the floristry and floriculture sectors worldwide. The global market for flowers is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated $57.4 billion in 2024, a notable leap from $42.4 billion in 2019, as detailed by Petal Republic. As different blooms, like tulips and orchids, gain popularity, advancements in technology and farming practices are reshaping how flowers are produced and sold.

According to Soocial, the United States remains a major player in this multi-billion dollar market, with approximately 33,000 florists and nearly 68,000 employees in the industry. The U.S. flower market is valued at around $7.9 billion, largely driven by holidays like Valentine’s Day, which accounts for a whopping 36% of all flower sales during that season.

Patterns of Consumption

Consumer habits are evolving, with online flower purchasing gaining traction. Between 2014 and 2019, online flower merchants grew by 11.8%, suggesting that more people are opting for the convenience of shopping from home. Still, this poses challenges for traditional shops like Fitz’s, which witness a projected decline in employment opportunities by 14% over the next decade. Surprisingly, while supermarkets are increasingly offering floral services—49% of full-service grocery stores now have a floral department—the unique charm of local florists remains irreplaceable, despite shifting purchasing patterns.

Florists enjoy a notable profit margin of around 70%, yet competition from grocery stores and online retailers continues to pose significant challenges. An average household in the U.S. spends $94.50 annually on flowers, with a majority of purchases tied to special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and major holidays. The growing preference for fresh flowers, however, remains strong, as 73% of Americans express appreciation for their beauty and significance.

As we wave goodbye to the 5th Avenue Floral Co., we are reminded not only of its legacy but also of the ongoing changes shaping the floral industry. It’s a vibrant world of blooms, and while traditions may fade, new opportunities will spring forth in inventive ways. As Fitz hands over the proverbial baton, one must wonder: what flowers will blossom next in this ever-evolving market?

To learn more about the current state of the floral industry, visit Petal Republic and Soocial.