The Flourish stand at Tatton had me spending money all week and introduced me to my new love of plants. Anthony owns the company and has two stalls in Manchester, one on St Ann’s Square beneath the cathedral, the second on Tib Street. Anthony actually specialised in business and marketing, but growing up around a flower stall it was almost inevitable he would fall into the industry. His father ran a flower market in Altrincham while Anthony grew up; his brother has now taken over.
Their Tatton stand
Flourish's competition at Tatton, best picture wins!
After graduating from university Anthony wanted to go self-employed. At the same time a market spot on St Ann’s Square opened up, 5 years later Flourish is indeed flourishing! With two high street spots, and a website there is plenty of places to find what you’re looking for. However, (yes there’s more) if you wanted something more interactive and thrilling, Flourish brings you ‘On The Clock’. It is an online platform that allows you to buy one off, exclusive plants in a live auction. But wait there is more... I just can’t tell you yet but it’s exciting and due to launch the end of summer so keep your eyes and ears peeled!
The Future of Shopping
Asking Anthony a million questions I received answers like “he wants to rule the world” although in a more humorous context, it shows his ambition which is exciting in itself. He works less on the stalls and concentrates more on the online side of Flourish these days. Ultimately online is where everyone is heading so putting a lot of effort in to this side is important to him. In response to my question of how he feels about the high street dying he simply replied “the high street isn’t dead, it’s just moved”, food for thought. Interested in the British grown market, Anthony looks to become more involved with this in the near future.
Anthony's advice to everyone in the industry is “get online now” he goes on to say that getting your name out there is so important. Building a strong online customer base now will make it so much easier when everyone and everything is online.