Fireworks Retailer Says Buy Early For July 4 Due To Shortage

CONNECTICUT — The Nation's largest consumer-based retail fireworks company is urges those celebrating the Fourth of July to shop for fireworks early, citing an anticipated increase in demand and "supply chain issues with global shipment delays."

Ohio-based Phantom Fireworks, though, said in a news release that stores and retailers across the nation are ready to "support shoppers seeking fireworks" with extended store hours and additional staffing.

"Fourth of July, America’s holiday, promises to be especially celebratory this year, as the nation reaches a key milestone in its recovery from the pandemic," Phantom officials said in anticipation of the surge in demand.

Connecticut is one of 16 states and the District of Columbia that allow the sale and use of "non-aerial and non-explosive: fireworks. The others are Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Virginia and Wisconsin.

States allowing most consumer fireworks are Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming.

Though Phantom is urging shoppers to purchase their fireworks early, the manufacturer still anticipates the market to end up with ample supplies.

"Like many other industries, the fireworks industry has also experienced delays due to shipment challenges facing the global market," Phantom Executive Vice President Alan Zoldan said. "The good news is that we prepared early in anticipation of high demand again this year, and are encouraging Phantom customers to do the same. We are always excited to be a big part of America's favorite holiday - the Fourth of July, especially meaningful following the 2020 pandemic summer."

Last year's personal fireworks sales surged to record rates industry-wide because many communities had public fireworks displays postponed and cancelled at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Phantom officials said.

This year is showing similar momentum as national leaders, including President Biden, have declared the summer holiday as the beginning point for the nation to "mark our independence" from the virus, Phantom officials said.

Because of the high demand, Phantom Fireworks has been preparing for the season with additional store openings, early shopping incentives and updated inventory, despite the emergence of supply chain challenges.

Company leaders said they are "confident" that planning ahead, and early shopping will allow for the supply to hold and avoid shortages of products as the holiday approaches.

"Unlike last summer, we're hopeful that most families can celebrate this Fourth of July season together," Phantom President Bruce Zoldan said. "Phantom Fireworks stands ready to help Americans turn the page this year - to enjoy our nation’s favorite summer holiday in their individual communities safely with Phantom Fireworks products - and with a promising future for the year ahead."