The world’s biggest and most prestigious floral design competition, which has previously found its home in cities around the globe, is coming to the UK for the very first time in 2023, with Manchester chosen as its host city.
Launched in 1972, the Interflora World Cup has previously taken place in the likes of Melbourne (2004), Shanghai (2010), Berlin (2015) and Philadelphia (2019), and is a chance for elite florists from across the world to showcase their talent. It will take place at Manchester Central on 7th – 9th September 2023 and marks a £1.2 million investment.
Taking over a 13,000 m2 space, including the venue’s Central Hall, not only will the competition itself be a display of skill and artistic design, but for the first time this year Interflora has chosen to expand the event to create a showstopping experience for visitors, who can expect artisan stalls with food, drink and shopping, as well as workshops and entertainment. Tickets go on sale to the public next month, with visitors expected from across the globe. For anyone who can’t make it in person, the event will also be live-streamed to anywhere in the world, with virtual access tickets available to buy.
Interflora prides itself in bringing people together through its network of over 900 local florists across the UK and in over 130 countries, and will be bringing this collaborative ethos to the event. There are many opportunities for the local and regional business communities to get involved, from exhibiting right through to joint campaigns.
World class florists from 25 countries around the globe will compete in six heats over three days, with a grand final on Saturday evening (9th). As host nation, Interflora UK has chosen the theme of ‘Our Natural World’ and competitors will be required to demonstrate their interpretation and respect for the planet, focussing on a sustainable ethos and utilising natural elements.
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.
“With world class hotels, entertainment, museums and galleries all to explore, the Interflora World Cup will bring visitors from all over the globe to discover what Manchester has to offer.
“The event will be a real spectacle and a 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.
“We’re excited to have some great partnership opportunities for the event and welcome conversations with local businesses who might want to get involved.”
2023 also marks Interflora’s 100th birthday and the event will form part of the brand’s centenary celebrations.
To find out more visit www.worldcup.interflora.co.uk
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