BLUFFTON, Ohio (WLIO)— With the Fourth of July nearly upon us, fireworks stores are seeing their busiest week of the year. We stopped by Springfield Fireworks in Bluffton to see what people are shopping for this year.
Operations Manager Greg Greer says their season is going strong, despite supply hurdles.
“We had struggles this year with the higher tariffs, so we're paying a lot more. China is the only country that makes fireworks, so we're paying the higher tariffs. But we were able to get in a lot earlier before the tariffs went up so we're in pretty good shape,” Greer said.
So what are people after this year?
“The bigger multi-shot cakes and artillery shells, of course. That's what most people want is the aerial items,” Greer said.
“Just whatever sticks out. You know, the bigger the better. Bigger is more appealing. We're definitely not done yet, we're gonna get a lot more,” said Mason Tadena of Leipsic.
Jason and Deb Oliver are sticking to fountains this year out of caution.
“They're just ones that don't shoot up. They don't launch into the air real high. We're right beside the walls of I-75 so drivers won't have to see all of the distraction,” said Jason Oliver.
Some shoppers shared how much they typically spend to light up the night.
“About 600 to 700,” said Cory Brown.
“I was gonna come in here last week with the expectation to spend at least 500,” said Cory Treen.
Greer says inventory can move fast once the last-minute rush begins.
“The third and the fourth are always the two busiest days, and you know, it's hard to keep stuff stocked on the shelf,” he said.
Ohio’s legal fireworks days include July 3 and 4, as well as the weekends before and after. Springfield Fireworks will be open through the holiday.
Ohio’s legal fireworks days include July 3 and 4, as well as the weekends before and after. Springfield Fireworks will be open through the holiday.
