Fireworks sector expects 20% more sales for last New Year’s before ban

Fireworks vendors have enjoyed strong sales in the past few weeks. If the trend continues, the industry could see sales increase by “around 20 percent” compared with last year, according to industry group Pyrotechniek Nederland. Chairman Leo Groeneveld remains cautious: “Various factors, including the weather and global developments, will influence the outcome.”

The Dutch Consumer Fireworks Dealers Foundation agrees. “The number of orders is still ahead of last year, and the size of each order is also larger,” says chairman Bart Pronk.

Since early November, online fireworks shops have been experiencing a surge in sales, likely driven by the approaching fireworks ban. “People are probably worried they won’t get any because stock is limited,” said Groeneveld. Although sales in most stores have eased somewhat, revenue remains “well above” levels from mid-December 2024.

He explained that sales cannot exceed 20 percent more than usual because that’s all the fireworks available in the Netherlands. “We have to work with what’s in stock. Eventually, the importer runs out.” Importers can’t quickly replenish supplies if items sell out, as the fireworks are sourced from China and must be ordered a year ahead.

Groeneveld says there is currently no shortage. Certain products have sold out, but this is not unusual for this time of year. Large cakes with fuses, known as compounds, are particularly popular.

2025 is expected to be the final year that the Netherlands permits consumer fireworks. In July, the Senate passed a nationwide ban on owning, selling, and using fireworks. After that, only the lightest types, such as sparklers and party poppers, will be permitted. The legislation still requires further elaboration.