Floral Solutions
The Challenge
A national floral company sought an innovative rubber band that could change flower delivery expectations for their business. Traditional floral plastic tubes delivered poor results. They leaked when shipped, leaving damaged packaging and wilted flowers. The company founder knew there had to be a better way. Changing systems wouldn’t be easy, but he wanted his customers to love his flowers as much as he did. As early as 2005, he turned his focus to keeping flowers hydrated longer without the mess. In response, the company introduced a hydration system packaged in water that keeps flowers constantly hydrated regardless of the position of the bouquet, lying down or standing up. The new solution called for a hydration balloon, a foam spacer, a special balloon, and a rubber band to hold it all together. But like most new systems, the first try isn’t always the last. In trials, he quickly realized standard rubber bands weren’t dependable. All too often the rubber bands broke as the balloon filled with water. The floral company was using too many rubber bands and without their desired outcome. However, in 2013 when the company changed hands, the new CEO brought renewed enthusiasm for the hydration system. He rebranded the design and made moves to improve the rubber band they used.
“The fit is important because it keeps the foam tight and keeps the flowers receiving water,” explained the company’s marketing coordinator. “The continuous compression provides continuous hydration.”
The Fix
Having heard of Aero’s reputation with custom projects, the company’s CEO called to discuss their issue. Based on his desired stretch and resistance, the Aero team determined he needed a custom rubber band thicker than the previous bands. Although this was contrary to traditional wisdom that thinner rubber bands stretch more easily due to less material, Aero assured him they could make a suitable rubber band. “The fit is important because it keeps the foam tight and keeps the flowers receiving water,” explained the company’s marketing coordinator. “The continuous compression provides continuous hydration.” Upon testing, the new thicker rubber band stretched enough to allow the water into the balloon during the filling process, without breaking and retained a tight fit when full. This paired with a special foam within the balloon that prevented the water from leaking created an ideal system.The Benefit
With a new more efficient system in place, the floral brand is confident the flowers they deliver are as fresh as possible. “Hydration was the key.” The marketing coordinator continued, “We found that under the old system using generic flower tubes, flowers had a maximum of 5 days before they started to turn. Now, we provide a 7-day freshness guarantee.” The system allows them to send high-quality flowers across the country without charging more. “Using the rubber bands doesn’t cost more to the recipient nor the distributor than the water tubes especially at wholesale prices,” she explained.The floral company has enjoyed their experience so much when asked if there was anything else she would like to add about the product development process, the marketing coordinator said, “We couldn’t be happier. The team at Aero is great.”
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