John Donati, Ocean View Flowers

1. What moved you to serve on the WF&FSA Board of Directors?

This is my second time serving on the Board. When Rob Shibata asked me to serve again I thought it would be a good opportunity to serve and support the wholesale industry.

 2. Tell us about your company.

Ocean View Flowers is committed to quality and excellence in the flowers we grow and service we provide. Our “passion for quality” permeates every aspect from growing and harvesting to our relationships with our customers.

3. What is the most interesting thing that happened to you in your business?

About 8 years ago I was introduced to Lean Business Principles at the Seeley Conference. These principles and their application have been transformational in our culture.

4. What value does being on the WF&FSA board bring to you?

It allows me to interact with fellow board members and industry leaders and sharpen my own skills.

5. Describe the value or benefit that WF&FSA membership brings to your company.

WF&FSA allows our company to interact with the leaders in our industry and stay abreast of market changes and opportunities.

6. What is the number one thing you want to accomplish as a board member?

I hope the health of the organization is even stronger than in prior years. I hope the educational and marketing programs for the wholesale members continue to provide value for the industry.

7. How did you get into the wholesale floral Industry?

Out of college I was first in the wine industry, managing vineyards in Santa Barbara County. We started Ocean View Flowers in 1992 after I spent about 3 months researching the floral industry.

8. What is your favorite part of the WF&FSA Floral Distribution Conference?

Connecting with old friends and making new ones in the industry.

9.How have you used relationships developed through WF&FSA to help you at work?

Keeping in touch with close friends has allowed me the opportunity to ask for advice and share challenges. This interaction has helped in better decisions for our company and improving our overall operations. 

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