Fireworks sales in the Netherlands have risen this year to a record amount of around 129 million euros, according to Leo Groeneveld, chairman of the Dutch Fireworks Association (Belangenvereniging Pyrotechniek Nederland). This breaks last year’s record of approximately 118 million euros.
With a likely ban on consumer fireworks looming next year, the Dutch have once again bought fireworks in large numbers. BPN chairman Leo Groeneveld had anticipated strong sales, noting that online pre-orders were already surging. On Monday morning, the first day of legal sales, fireworks stores were greeted by long lines of customers collecting their orders.
However, sales have not risen as much as the industry might have anticipated when ordering fireworks. Groeneveld says that approximately 12 to 13 million euros’ worth of fireworks remain distributed across 850 sales locations. The government has agreed that importers will take back this surplus stock.
Fireworks may be set off in the Netherlands from 6 p.m. on December 31 until 2 a.m. on January 1. A total of 20 municipalities, however, enforce a ban on fireworks.
This New Year’s Eve is likely the last in its current form. In July, the Dutch Senate passed a nationwide ban on owning, selling, and using fireworks. Only the lightest types of fireworks, like sparklers and party poppers, will remain permitted.
Groeneveld described the impending fireworks ban as “disappointing.” He said it represents not just a commercial blow to the industry but also a frustration for the many Dutch citizens who have long used fireworks responsibly. According to him, a small minority has ruined it for the rest. “Many Dutch people consider it unfair, and that’s what we’ve been hearing frequently over the past few days.”
The legislation has yet to be fully developed. It will outline, among other things, the rules for associations or foundations to request exemptions from the fireworks ban. Earlier this month, outgoing State Secretary for the Environment Thierry Aartsen said the government is also preparing “fair compensation” for the fireworks sector.