The First Flower Vending Machines in Portugal Are Now Operating in Porto

Bosque Arte Floral introduces an innovative concept: fresh bouquets available at any time of the day or night.

Inês Gomes has always believed that flowers can turn simple moments into unforgettable memories. At 42, after a career in the commercial sector, she decided to follow the passion that had accompanied her since childhood and start her own business in Esposende: Bosque Arte Floral. “This project is the blossoming of the seeds I once cast into the universe,” she summarizes.

The shop, opened three years ago, quickly became a creative space where unique fresh bouquets and preserved flower arrangements are born. But Inês wanted to go further – to find a way to make her bouquets available beyond shop hours, at any time of day or night. Inspiration came from abroad: in cities like Miami, Melbourne, or Warsaw, flower vending machines were already operating successfully.

“I am a curious, attentive person, always ready to innovate. When I realized that this concept didn’t yet exist in Portugal, I decided to take the risk. I did my research, exchanged ideas with colleagues in the field, and realized it was the right step. Today, I am proud to say that we launched the country’s first flower vending machine,” says the founder.

The official launch took place on September 7 in Esposende, but just two days later the impact reached Porto, with two machines installed inside metro stations: Campanhã and Estádio do Dragão. And they didn’t go unnoticed: this pioneering and innovative service makes it possible to buy fresh flowers at any moment — to surprise someone, celebrate a special occasion, or simply brighten the way home.

In Porto, the initiative is supported by local florist Fiori, which — just like in Esposende — ensures fresh flowers are replenished in the machines, as well as handling personalized orders and pickups.

How does it work?

The machine is very easy to use. It has eight refrigerated compartments designed to keep bouquets fresh and in perfect condition until purchase. Each bouquet is placed in a vase with water, guaranteeing durability. “Every day we restock the machine with new creations. The bouquets are constantly changing so there’s always variety and surprise,” explains Inês.

Prices range from €25 to €50, with more elaborate arrangements appearing occasionally.

In addition, the machine offers an extra feature: it allows customers to pick up personalized orders. “If someone orders a bouquet from us, they can then collect it from the machine using a code. It’s quick, practical, and fully automated,” she adds. Payments are made exclusively by card.

Bringing the shop’s magic to the machine

Although mechanical, each bouquet carries the same essence as in the physical store. “The colors, textures, and combinations reflect the identity of both florists — Bosque and Fiori. We want customers, when opening the machine door and choosing a bouquet, to feel the same connection they would in the shop,” says Inês.

The feedback couldn’t have been more positive. In the first few days, demand was so high that the team had to restock the machines several times. “People are surprised and delighted with the idea. Many say they can finally buy flowers after hours. Some even joke that husbands no longer have an excuse to come home empty-handed,” says Inês with a smile.

From the very first day, curious stories started to emerge. “We had people stopping on their way to dinner to buy a last-minute bouquet. Others used the machine for an unexpected apology. This shows we’ve managed to bring flowers into everyday life, into small, spontaneous gestures,” the founder shares.

Design and accessibility

The machine’s elegant design blends seamlessly into the urban environment, almost like an art installation. But its true impact lies in democratizing access to flowers. “I want giving flowers to be seen as something natural, part of everyday life. A small gesture we can do for ourselves or for someone we love, without waiting for a special date,” stresses Inês.

Looking ahead

After the success of the launch, Bosque Arte Floral is already preparing for expansion. New machines are planned for cities such as Braga, Guimarães, Lisbon, Algarve, and soon Barcelos. “We have no doubt that this idea will blossom across the country. We want the machines to become part of urban life, just like they do elsewhere in the world,” she says.

In the future, the concept may also include potted plants or preserved flowers, further expanding the options. “We are planting roots for a future in which giving flowers will be easier, more accessible, and more natural,” concludes Inês Gomes.

For now, Porto can be proud to host the country’s first flower vending machines, which — instead of snacks or drinks — dispense beauty, and promise to change the way the Portuguese give flowers.

You can find the original article here NEW IN PORTO