A Broomhill florist is urging residents to support local independent businesses as they prepare for the annual increase in demand for flowers on and around Mother’s Day.  

Following the pandemic, Jonathan Bagge of Pavilion Flowers said retailers have seen a change in consumer buying habits as customers have turned to online businesses as well as supermarkets for the convenience and price. 

He said preparation for the annual celebration requires careful planning to avoid wastage and financial loss for small businesses in the area. 

The 56-year-old owner of the shop on Glossop Road said: “The pandemic has impacted on how consumers buy flowers rather than if they buy them, I think people still do it, but they’ve changed their buying habits. 

“Flowers don’t last forever, and if you over order, then you’ll have waste which can be costly.” 

According to a survey by Serenata Flowers, flowers are the most popular Mother’s Day gift among Brits with 48% of adults saying they would show their appreciation with a pretty bouquet. 

Mandy Newcastle, 55, the mother of a student at Sheffield University, said: “I would buy from any of the places you usually get flowers from, but I would try to support local shops the most.” 

According to Mr Bagge, flowers sold by his business are much more personal than those which you would buy from a supermarket. 

He said: “Flowers are quite emotive. 

“It feels very personal, and you can say a lot about somebody’s character with flowers.” 

Molly Mcguinness, 19, a student at the University of Sheffield said that purchasing flowers online was more convenient for sending them to the recipient. 

The student said: “I will be buying flowers for my mum for Mother’s Day and ideally, I would like to buy from a local retailer to support local businesses but because I’m away from home as a university student I’ll be getting them online and sending them to her. 

“It does also mean that I’m saving a bit of money.”