Fresh flower lei prices soar as graduation season is in full swing

Yahoo

18-05-2025

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Graduation season is in full swing, with college ceremonies wrapping up and high school seniors getting ready to graduate all month long.
But, if you were planning on buying fresh flower lei for your graduate, get ready to spend more money.
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Lei stands and flower shops in town were busy on May 17, as thousands of people attended UH Mānoa's graduation ceremony.
But many shoppers noticed they were spending more money than they did in 2024.
'These used to go for $40, but now I think it's like $70 I paid for,' said one graduate's grandmother.
'For me, [the price] went double and almost triple,' said Cindy Tanituchi, whose granddaughter is graduating from UH Mānoa. 'Seriously, because usually I pay about $35 to $40 and I went to the airport and at the airport the one lady wanted between $65 and up to almost $80 and I went and got this one for $50,' she added while showing her fresh flower lei.
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In early April, new tariffs took effect which raised prices for countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Thailand where most fresh flowers come from. There were also tariffs in place on China goods like plastic containers and vases, and while negotiations are underway with some countries, owners say they are already paying more for goods.
Candice Le at Le Flowers said container prices were up and packaging prices have gone up too.
She said this year is the highest she's seen flowers and lei prices.
'Even we're scared to put up the price, that's how expensive it is,' Le said.She said fragrant flowers are in demand and limited supply, so it will cost customers more.
But if you're on a budget and have multiple graduations to attend this year, there are ways to make lei that still hold sentimental value.
'We went on Youtube to watch how to make lei and we do eyelash lei, yarn lei, just prep early,' said Marlene Sagapolutele, a loved one of a graduate.
'I made my own lei for $20,' Tanituchi said. 'It's a $20 money lei made out of $1 bills, so make your own!
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