Firework sales get double whammy with economy, rain

Friday, July 3, 2009

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Bay area fireworks stands have plenty in stock due to the economy and a week full of rain. (larger image)

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- Bay area firework stands are looking for a last minute comeback this weekend after a poor economy and a rainy week put a pinch on sales.

Galaxy Fireworks says it will have many stands open around the clock to take advantage of last minute buyers. Some will even be open until early Sunday morning.

The firework stands are just hoping patriotism and people looking for some fun will give them a boost.

Workers at the TNT Fireworks tent in North Lakeland say rain kept customers away for most of the week, putting a damper on their peak sales time.

"Actually it's off," manager Robert Carter said, "For the first three days it was pretty bad."

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But people are using the break in clouds today to stock up for Saturday.

Galaxy Fireworks has 65 locations in the Bay area this Fourth of July. It says sales have been off because of bad weather and the economy but for many customers, this holiday tops both of those things.

Since the Fourth of July falls on a Saturday, it may be easier for residents to have some firework fun at home.

"They're doing more of the family type thing with barbeques and so forth," said Galaxy fireworks worker Sharon Hunnewell Johnson.

Robert Carter, manager at TNT fireworks in Lakeland hopes he'll actually sell out of his $20,000 worth of fireworks.

"I think it's doing to pick up pretty good for the next day or two," Carter said.

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