Firework sales in the Netherlands surge ahead of Christmas

Dutch consumers have significantly increased their online firework purchases ahead of Christmas, with sales up nearly 17 percent compared to the same period last year, according to Leo Groeneveld, chairman of the Dutch Pyrotechnics Association (BPN).

Groeneveld stated that the year-over-year sales gap has widened in recent days. "A week ago, sales were already 15 percent higher than last year," he said.

The increase in spending on fireworks this year is partly due to higher product prices, Groeneveld explained. All fireworks shipped to the Netherlands come from China, but logistical routes have changed this year. Due to Houthi rebel attacks in Yemen, cargo ships are avoiding the Red Sea and taking longer routes around Africa, adding two weeks to transit times.

"These delays have forced suppliers to raise prices by 5 percent," said Groeneveld.

While he could not specify the total revenue from firework sales so far, he noted that, as in previous years, most purchases are expected during the Christmas holidays.

In 2022, the Dutch firework industry achieved record sales of 110 million euros, according to BPN. Whether this year will surpass that record remains uncertain, but Groeneveld expressed optimism.

"The signs for online sales are excellent, and the weather forecasts for the key sales days and New Year’s Eve are favorable," he said.

Despite the surge in sales, stricter regulations remain in place. This year, 19 municipalities have implemented firework bans during New Year’s celebrations, up from 16 municipalities in 2023.

Groeneveld said he is unsure whether these restrictions will impact sales in affected areas. However, he emphasized that firework vendors in these municipalities will remain open, selling legal products.

Firework sales will begin earlier than usual this year, starting Saturday, December 28. By law, fireworks cannot be sold on Sundays, but retailers can sell children’s fireworks that day. The majority of orders, however, are for decorative fireworks, Groeneveld added.

Among the most popular items are large firework boxes containing more than 50 shots. Groeneveld noted that firecrackers remain prohibited, as in previous years.