This thesis focused on researching the demand for further education for people within the field of floristry both at the present time and in the future and how this kind of continuing education should be implemented. The thesis was conducted for Keuda Adult Education in Natural Resources and the Environment. The results of the research served as the basis for creating the model of continuing studies/education in floristry business.

The theoretical framework describes both the field of floristry business and the education within the field as well as research results from continuing education and general good practices of training events. A part of the theoretical framework consists of service design and its planning process.

The research methods were based on a foreshadowing method by Tulevaisuusverstas, participant observation and survey research.

The opinions in between the survey research participant groups did not differ much. Gaining new knowledge and skills as well as forming networks were considered important targets in training participation. According to the research the length of a training event should be from one to two days at the early part of the working week. In the participants’ opinion a training event should include a demonstration and examples. Continuing education should deal with the following issues: boosting sales, floristry, productisation and different methods and techniques in marketing. The model for continuing education was developed by taking into account field specific features and research results.

The original intention was planning a model applicable to other sectors in natural resources and the environment as well. However, the sectors in natural resources appear to differ to such an extent that the other sectors should conduct separate field specific needs assessments and review the structure of education independently.