The principal sales outlet for floral products has traditionally been the retail florist shop. Florist shops have performed many market functions including arranging, delivery, information, and credit. The sale of flowers through mass outlets started on a limited scale prior to World War II. Recently, however, supermarkets have demonstrated a greater interest in the floricultural business. Consequently, many chains have included florist shops in their stores or in adjacent areas. Others have become involved, on a smaller scale, by stocking a limited number of plants in the produce departments of the individual stores on a regular or seasonal basis.