A Family History by Erik Hoving
Bunches have been dispatching flowers nationwide since January 1990.
My wife Sandra and I started to sell flowers in 1989 from an indoor shopping centre in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. I set up our flower stall under a 4 metre by 3 metre umbrella and within weeks of trading learnt that customers wanted quality, fresh flowers and a friendly face. Nothing has changed since then, this is still the same today.
The business prospered to such an extent that I was offered to sell it 16 weeks later, which I decided to do. |
Erik & Sandra Hoving, the original founders & their daughter Danielle who joined the business in 2003 |
During week two of our trading, I discovered that we could put flowers into boxes and despatch them nationwide to customers homes using Royal Mail as our transport link. I proposed this idea to the Post Office, who enthusiastically agreed to the idea and consequently we started to sell flowers by post in January 1990. Orders were taken over the Post Office counter and telephoned to us.
Sandra and I took the orders, made the flowers up and despatched them with a third member of staff, from premises in Kirkby-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire. Sometimes we were helped by our children during the school holidays. As we got busier we took on more local staff.
The business expanded to all Post Offices nationwide in 1992 and we also started our direct mail business at the same time. This proved very successful, especially as we also offered chocolates, a first in the UK flower trade.
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"We understand the importance of speaking with a real person who can meet your individual needs" |
In 2001 Bunches moved into purpose built premises with state of the art Sales Office, Production and Despatch facilities. Our flowers are purchased from suppliers with whom we have a longstanding relationship because of their commitment to quality and the longevity of their flowers.
Our daughter, Danielle, joined the business in May 2003 and is now the Managing Director of Bunches.
We import our flowers from around the world, Colombia, Ecuador, Thailand and The Netherlands, wherever they are fresh and grown in perfect conditions. |
Towards the end of 2004 our relationship with the Post Office finished after 15 years and now our business comes purely direct from the public through our website and direct mail order. |
Our employees are key to giving you commitment to service and quality and we value their input and hard work in the growth of the company.
Our customers are a very loyal bunch, most place repeat orders with us as soon as they have discovered the quality and service given by us.
I look forward to inviting you into our Bunches family and to many years of valued custom.
Erik Hoving
Executive Chairman & Founder |
"We are here to ensure that your flowers are of the highest quality. We guarantee that your gift will be packed with care and attention"
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