One particular feature in Germany is the large size of the German cemetary market; total value of planting and tending graves, flower decorartion for funerals and graves is Euro 1.7 billion.  Some 5.800 businesses are specialized in cemetary gardening and production for cemetaries.  In order to better compete in this market, there is a tendency for undertakers to offer a more complete service, employing there own florists and other services. Due to an increasing use of cremation and a declining interest of the younger generation to look after graves, the market is showing signs of decline which is causing concern for overall flower and plant consumption in Germany.  E-mail: press@messe-essen.de