I think we need to be one step ahead of the supermarkets etc by showcasing the skills that we all have and really showing our creativity. I do think the internet is a hugely useful marketing tool but I also think that many customers still appreciate good old fashioned face to face service. I think the lovely thing about Floristry is the whole experience of walking into a florist shop, we need to inspire the customer with sights and smells! I think most independent shops are at risk and need to adapt to the current market. One of my towns oldest shop has just shut after probably 20 yrs. It was a cheese shop which was fab but unfortunately with Waitrose round the corner most people do the 'one stop shop'. This is where we need to diversify to provide the customer with more interesting options. With regards to supermarket flowers, would you be more impressed if a guest turned up with a supermarket offering or a beautifully wrapped bouquet from a real florist?