December 2013 | Volume 34, Issue 12
FNGLA’S MONTHLY PUBLICATION: DIGITAL MONTHLY ISSUE LOCATED AT HTTP://GREENLINE.FNGLA.ORG
TPIE 2014: Inspire, Innovate, Create! “The times they are a-changing,” sang Bob Dylan in 1964. That line continues to ring true as businesses cautiously move from the hunker-and-bunker stance of the Great Recession to an assertive, ready-to-engage approach for 2014. For plant producers, retailers and service providers, there’s no better resource to get ready for the changing times than the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE). Taking place January 22-24 in Fort Lauderdale, TPIE continues to offer the New Year’s first look at industry trends, new plant introductions, out-of-the-box ideas and the latest in design, style, and color when it comes to foliage and tropicals. “As a garden center retailer, I’m always excited to attend TPIE,” said TPIE chair, Theresa Riley, co-owner of Rockledge Gardens (Rockledge, FL). “Just when I think I’ve seen all the plants out there, I go to TPIE and discover a cool new plant that I know will be a hit with our customers at Rockledge Gardens. Even if I wasn’t on the TPIE planning committee, I would recommend TPIE as the best trade event in the country, not only to find new plants and products but to be inspired by the creative people who exhibit there and share their expertise. I always leave TPIE reenergized and excited about being in this industry.” In its 41st year, TPIE is a signature event for FNGLA, providing members an exceptional and affordable marketplace to showcase their plants and products to potential buyers not only from across the country but around the world. TPIE booth sales are ahead of last year with only a handful of booths remaining for purchase. “We see the early sell-out of booths at TPIE (Con’t Page 3)