The ‘World Cup for florists’ set to land in Manchester this year

Previously this spectacular event has found its home in cities around the globe and this time Interflora, which is running the 2023 World Cup, has named Manchester as its host city.

Cast aside any notions of floristry as you know it – in this global competition the most elite floral designers at the cutting edge of the industry will take the spotlight to fight tooth and nail in the ultimate battle of the blooms.

Think giant orbs bursting with colour, towering forests of unusual stems, breathtaking sculptural showstoppers – and all the drama that comes with a fiercely creative competition.

Launched in 1972, the Interflora World Cup has previously taken place in cities including Melbourne (2004), Berlin (2015) and Shanghai (2010), and is a chance for world-class florists to showcase their talent.

It will take place at Manchester Central on 7th – 9th September 2023 and tickets go on sale today, priced at £28 for adult day entry.

Access to previous Interflora World Cups has been reserved exclusively for the industry elite but next year, for the first time, this coveted display of artistic skill will be open to the public.

As well as a chance to marvel at the competitors in action, visitors can expect artisan stalls with food, drinks and shopping, as well as hands-on workshops and live entertainment.

Florists from 25 countries will be put through their paces competing in six heats over three days, with a grand final on Saturday evening (9th).

They will be set creative tasks to complete under strict time conditions – some known about in advance and others given as a surprise to test their speed of thought and design skills.

A rigorous judging process will be run by a team of 14 international judges and adjudicators managed by the International Florist Organisation, Florint.

The competitors will be tested on the four key aspects of good floristry design; idea, colour, composition and technique – and the winner will walk away with a prize package including €15,000 to catapult their professional floristry career.

There are 2nd and 3rd place prizes up for grabs too, with €10,000 and €5,000 awarded respectively.

As host nation, Interflora UK has chosen the theme of ‘Our Natural World’ as part of its commitment to sustainable practices. Competitors will be required to demonstrate their interpretation and respect for the planet, focussing on a sustainable ethos and utilising natural elements.

The UK competitor has been named as Elizabeth Newcombe of The Botanical Company in Surrey. She beat off competition from 80 of the best independent florists from up and down the UK and Ireland to be crowned ‘Interflora Florist of the Year’ at the finals at RHS Bridgewater back in July this year.

Speaking about the host city, Interflora’s director of florist services, Nick Priest, said: “Manchester is a vibrant, multicultural city with the most brilliant energy, which reflects the creativity and diversity of our competitors. We’re excited to bring visitors from all over the globe to discover all the city has to offer.

“The World Cup will be a real spectacle and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see floral designers at the top of their game at work. They will be creating complete works of art on an impressive scale and our tasks will provide the ultimate test of nerve and skill”.

2023 also marks Interflora’s 100th birthday and the event will form part of the brand’s centenary celebrations.

To find out more and to book tickets, visit www.interflora.co.uk/page/world-cup

A range of ticket types are available, with day entry at £28 per adult and £10 for young adults (age 13-17). Children 12 and under go free. Streaming tickets are £15.