Two Local Florist Families Merge

WAYNE, Pa. - July 29, 2013 - PRLog -- In 1888, a baker named Frank Adelberger decided to become a flower grower and built his first greenhouse at the corner of Wayne Avenue and Conestoga Road. Thus began the 125 year tradition of Adelberger's Florist, which is now the oldest business in Wayne. However, construction of 6 homes and complete renovation of the retail building is about to begin on that parcel. Florist, Barry Barnett, had to find a way to continue providing flowers, plants, and gifts to thousands of loyal customers during the construction.

In stepped Chris Drummond, a third generation florist himself. He began working in his family business, Plaza Flowers, at the King of Prussia Plaza thirty years ago. Drummond and Barnett have become friends in recent years and Barnett knew that the team of 30 artisans and support staff at Plaza Flowers could handle the volume and provide the top quality designs that Aldelberger's Main Line clients have come to expect.

“This partnership is a win-win,” explained Barnett. “Plaza Flowers has all the equipment, the technology, the space, and the talent to bring elegantly designed fresh flowers to my customers seven days a week. We're taking the best of Adelberger's and making it even better.” Barnett did not have to worry about the headache of relocating. A simple data export/import brought all the customer profiles and preferences into the point of sale system at Plaza Flowers. Adelberger's now has access to a greater variety of farm-direct fresh flowers and delivery fleet at Plaza's 10,000 square foot facility in Valley Forge. Customers will see faster delivery, more convenient hours and seven-day service.

The only down side is that, during construction, walk-in customers will have to drive 15 minutes from Wayne if they would like the in-person shopping experience. However, that is not a priority for most customers. Only 18 percent of Adelberger's current customers visit the store. It's so convenient to shop by phone and internet that store visits have become increasingly rare. Drummond would love to see more people walk into the store, but that is not today's reality. “Our schedules are busier than ever and mobile technology improvements have made it fun and easy to shop from anywhere 24/7. If brides can plan their whole wedding by exchanging emails and Pinterest boards, then customers can certainly be confident in buying a bouquet on our web site or on the phone with one of our friendly experts. We are committed to exceeding expectations regardless of which shopping method you choose.”

Drummond is a member of the American Academy of Floriculture and has been named Pennsylvania's Florist of the Year. He co-owns Plaza Flowers with his sister, Heather Tuckey, who does not take the Adelberger's legacy lightly. “I am proud of my grandfather and mother who built our reputation. I know the Adelberger family has similar prestige and a longer tradition. That means we have to raise the bar even higher to maintain the pride of both families every time we make a flower delivery.”