What is an Order Gatherer?
An order gatherer, often referred to as a national flower delivery chain, isn't a real florist. These are typically large call centers or online platforms that advertise floral delivery services but don’t actually design or deliver the arrangements themselves. Instead, they take your order, keep up to 30% of the total cost as a service fee, and then wire the order to a local florist to fulfill. While they may appear convenient, these middlemen often add unnecessary costs while offering little value to you or the florist who does the actual work.
Why Are Order Gatherers Problematic?
Order gatherers create a lose-lose situation for both customers and local florists. The florist receives less money to create your arrangement due to high commission fees, often making it difficult to even break even on the order. Meanwhile, the person taking your call or online order typically has no floral training and little understanding of what’s in season or available locally. They’re removed from your community, unaware of regional preferences or special occasions. This can lead to disappointment in both quality and customer experience, not to mention lost revenue for the businesses that serve your town directly.
Why Are Local Florists the Better Option?
When you order directly from a local florist (either by phone or through their website), you’re making a more thoughtful choice. Every dollar you spend goes toward your flowers, not toward hidden fees or third-party commissions. Local florists source fresh, high-quality blooms and know how to design for the specific occasion or sentiment you're expressing. You'll receive longer-lasting arrangements, more personalized service, and peace of mind knowing you're supporting a small business in the community. Learn more about shopping from a local florist here.