Fireworks sales drop nearly 70% - KOTA Territory News

Fireworks sales drop nearly 70%

It's a tough business to break even in this year.
 
Local fireworks vendors say their business has dropped incredibly, thanks to the various fire bans.

Empty isles, and dusty boxes fill most fireworks outlet stores, which are generally open from late June to July 5th.

While most fireworks are banned within rapid city limits, novelty fireworks like party poppers, snappers, sparklers, and toy caps are permitted.

Vendor Mark Lantis says his sales have already dropped by 60 to 70% compared to last year.
 
"Sales are very slow but we completely understand. Our family has lived here for three
generation and we don't want to see the area burn down. Its just part of being in business, and we'll just hope for a better year next year," said Lantis.

But the various bans on large fireworks is harder for some than others.

"I like the big fire works, its just not right without them," said Morgan Lantis.
 
Lantis says he hopes to make up for lost business during the Sturgis rally and over the last week of December as people celebrate the new year.