KWCH - Kansas News and Weather - Are Fireworks Recession Proof?

Are Fireworks Recession Proof?

By Michael Schwanke (WICHITA, Kan.)

We may be in a recession, but you would never know it by looking at local firework stands.

"I have seen the sales pick up every day and tonight it will be a madhouse," says Don Wharton who expects sales at his church's tent in Maize to be strong.

"I think people need a little release," says Wharton.

Customers agree with Wharton.  Reggie Powell just got back from Iraq this week.  He'll celebrate the fourth for the first time in two years.

"Very excited to be home with family," says Powell. 

He's not surprised that firework sales are expected to be up this year.

"I think in difficult times people need to celebrate and July 4th means so much for every American."

Revenue for the industry as a whole is expected to reach $960 million this year, up from $940 million in 2008.