Fireworks might be in short supply this July 4th

YOUNGSTOWN — Sparklers, bottle rockets, fire crackers and other fireworks are staples at many Fourth of July celebrations. But those shopping for them this season may pay a little more for a little less.

Consumers may notice an increase in price and a limited selection at some fireworks retailers.

“The problem is real. The industry estimate is that 20 percent of the fireworks for this country that won’t make it in time [for the Fourth of July],” said William Weimer, vice president of B.J. Alan Co. in Youngstown, one of the largest importers of consumer fireworks in the United States.

B.J. Alan Co. operates more than 50 permanent fireworks showrooms across the United States and Puerto Rico and leases more than 1,200 temporary locations nationwide during the fireworks season, which is between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July.

hschoenstein@vindy.com

For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Vindicator or www.vindy.com.