A Century of Blooms—Celebrating OLAFM’s 100th Anniversary
A Century of Blooms—Celebrating OLAFM’s 100th Anniversary
The Original Los Angeles Flower Market (OLAFM) has been a cornerstone of the floral industry for a century. As we celebrate 100 years of innovation, tradition, and growth, we look back at the legacy that has made OLAFM the largest wholesale flower market in the United States.
1. The Birth of OLAFM: A Vision in 1919
The Early Days:
Founded in 1919 as the American Florists’ Exchange by a group of 30 European-American growers.
The goal was to provide a more efficient way to sell and distribute fresh flowers to local florists.
The First Market Location:
Initially set up in a small garage on Winston Street near Fifth in Los Angeles.
A modest beginning, but a vision that would grow exponentially.
"We started with a simple goal—bringing fresh flowers to the people of Los Angeles—and now, 100 years later, we’ve created something much more than we ever imagined." – OLAFM Founder
2. Growth and Expansion: From Garage to Landmark
OLAFM’s rise from a small space to the largest wholesale flower market in the U.S. includes key milestones:
1920s Expansion:
By the early 1920s, the market relocated to a larger space across the street from its original location.
Current Location on Wall Street:
In the late 1920s, OLAFM moved to its current 55,000 square-foot location on South Wall Street.
The market continued to grow with the expansion of the floral industry in Los Angeles.
Becoming a Hub for Floral Innovation:
As the market grew, so did the demand for new technologies in horticulture, greenhouse management, refrigeration, and transportation.
3. OLAFM’s Impact on the Floral Industry
Over the past century, OLAFM has played a pivotal role in shaping the floral industry:
Global Influence:
The market became the go-to destination for florists and suppliers from all over the world.
Innovations in flower handling and distribution helped establish Los Angeles as a global floral center.
A Leader in Sustainability:
As a market that provides millions of cut flowers annually, OLAFM has led the charge in sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly practices.
Emphasis on local sourcing and reducing waste has been central to the market’s operations in recent decades.
4. Celebrating 100 Years: A Look Back at the Market’s Legacy
The Visionaries Behind the Success:
A tribute to the leaders, visionaries, and dedicated vendors who made OLAFM a success over the years.
Through hard work and collaboration, they helped make OLAFM a nationally recognized institution.
Vendor Spotlights:
Highlighting some of the original vendors and their continued contributions to the market’s success.
OLAFM’s 35+ vendors now provide a wide range of flowers, foliage, and accessories that are shipped across the globe.
"The flower market has been the heart of Los Angeles for generations. It's not just about flowers—it's about community and legacy." – Current Vendor at OLAFM
5. Looking Toward the Future: The Next 100 Years
As OLAFM enters its next century, the market is focused on continued growth and innovation:
Embracing Technology:
OLAFM plans to integrate more technological solutions to streamline flower distribution and enhance customer experiences.
Sustainability Initiatives:
The market is looking to further its green practices by reducing its carbon footprint and expanding eco-friendly offerings.
Supporting the Next Generation:
Programs to mentor young florists and entrepreneurs, ensuring the market’s legacy continues to flourish.
6. A Century of Blooms: Celebrating with the Community
The 100th-anniversary celebration will include:
A Special Event at OLAFM:
A grand celebration with floral displays, local food vendors, and live entertainment.
A chance for the community to experience the beauty of the market firsthand.
Customer Appreciation Day:
Offering discounts and promotions to honor the loyal customers and partners who’ve supported OLAFM throughout the years.
"Our success is built on the trust and support of our community. Celebrating 100 years is a way of saying thank you to everyone who’s been part of our journey." – OLAFM Management
7. Key Milestones in OLAFM’s History
Here’s a quick look at some of the defining moments in the history of OLAFM:
1919: OLAFM founded as the American Florists’ Exchange.
1920s: The market moves to a larger location on South Wall Street.
1980s: The market becomes a major destination for international flower imports.
2000s: OLAFM embraces sustainability, becoming a leader in eco-friendly floral practices.
2019: OLAFM celebrates 100 years of excellence, setting the stage for the next century.
Conclusion: A Century of Blooms, A Legacy to Cherish
As we celebrate OLAFM’s 100th anniversary, we honor the market’s legacy of service, innovation, and commitment to the floral industry. From its humble beginnings to becoming a beacon for florists worldwide, OLAFM’s journey is a testament to the power of community and perseverance. Here’s to another century of blooms, beauty, and continued success.
"OLAFM has flourished through the years, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers, inspire florists, and grow our legacy for the next 100 years." – OLAFM Leadership
