For many small businesses in Townsville, the coronavirus downturn has been a financial and emotional struggle.

But in some good news, business is blooming for a local florist with travel restrictions and limited human contact resulting in more people sending boutquets to show loved ones they care.

Owner of Malapara florist Anna Gianoulis has had a 10 per cent increase in sales since the coronavirus pandemic first hit. And while it's not a major increase, Ms Gianoulis is simply grateful she hasn't gone backwards. 

“Due to the fact some people couldn't reach each other because they couldn't go and visit, especially earlier on in the year or last year they were sending flowers to show their love,” Ms Gianoulis says.

And in the lead up to Valentine’s Day on Sunday, her till has been ticking along nicely.

There has, however, been logistical challenges in terms of importing flowers from overseas due to the reduction of international flights.

But proving to come up roses, Ms Gianoulis has turned her focus onto what she flowers she can get via road, meaning she can save on freight expenses, and order more fresh flowers from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

She says she will have a large range of blooms available for Valentine’s Day but still expects the classic red roses to be a crowd favourite.

“We’ve timed it so they come in on time, and we've started working on our preparation and I don't envisage any short supply at this stage.”