In the lead-up to Valentine's Day, the flower market in Latvia is seeing a significant increase in prices, driven by rising transportation costs and labor expenses. Official statistics indicate that the sector has been struggling with high inflation rates for the past few years, although recent data suggests a slight correction in prices. Kristaps Sedvalds, a board member at SIA 'Ziedu bāze Florex', noted that the upward trend in prices is largely attributable to the escalating costs of resources both domestically and abroad.

A noteworthy trend in the flower market is the increasing competition from supermarkets and home improvement stores, which have begun to sell flowers. This shift poses a challenge for specialized flower retailers who feel the pressure of competing against larger retailers that typically do not focus on floral sales. Inese Jakušenoka, a flower trader, highlighted the ubiquity of flowers at major retailers like 'Depo,' 'Rimi,' and 'Maxima,' questioning why grocery stores should be selling flowers at all. This phenomenon is not unique to Latvia but appears to be occurring globally, indicating a potential shift in consumer purchasing behavior.

As Valentine's Day approaches, the dynamics of the flower market will likely continue to evolve, with specialized sellers possibly needing to adapt their strategies to remain competitive. The combination of high prices and increased competition may lead to challenges for small florists, which could, in turn, affect consumers seeking quality and affordable floral options. The impact of these trends may ripple through the local economy as it adjusts to changing consumer preferences and market conditions.