Flower Mart Vendors in Downtown LA Concerned About Impact of ICE Fears on Their Business

Ice Raids Affecting Valentine’s Day Flower Market in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES – As Valentine’s Day approaches, vendors at the Original Los Angeles Flower Mart are noticing a decline in customer traffic. This downturn is attributed in part to social media posts regarding recent ICE detentions of street flower sellers, which have deterred some potential buyers from visiting the market.

Vendors report that a significant number of customers—especially those who typically resell flowers on street corners—are staying away. “Every customer counts these days,” remarked a vendor at the bustling market located at Wall and 8th Street. The market is currently open to the public, allowing retail shoppers access to a variety of floral offerings.

Inside the expansive hall, vendors provide flowers at competitive prices compared to local supermarkets. Many customers express a preference for the enclosed environment of the mart over purchasing from street vendors. "We have a great, happy vibe," said Fiona Rivera from Wall Street Florals. "And you need that, with times being as difficult as they have."

However, Rivera noted that some of her older clientele have become apprehensive about visiting. In contrast, she has seen a surge in younger customers who are enthusiastic about creating floral arrangements.

The rise in tariffs on imported roses from Ecuador has compounded challenges for vendors, escalating from 6% to 25%. This financial burden makes each customer critical for business sustainability. "But we are keeping prices as low as possible," stated Evelyn Valencia, showcasing a large bouquet of multicolored roses priced at $40. She is also adapting her business model to include floral arrangement classes and a presence on Instagram, recognizing that "the world is changing."

For those planning to visit the downtown floral district, early arrival is recommended, as most vendors close their shops by 3 or 4 p.m.