Growing demand for fireworks in Germany is evident this year, despite escalating criticism from various groups regarding the environmental and safety implications of these celebrations. According to industry insights, the largest fireworks manufacturer in Germany, WECO, reports a 10% increase in the availability of pyrotechnics, including rockets, firecrackers, and fireworks batteries, compared to the previous year. Another manufacturer, COMET, has also noted a moderate rise in supply in response to consumer interest.
The German Association of the Pyrotechnics Industry anticipates a continued increase in availability across the sector. Fireworks can be sold in Germany from December 29 to December 31, with any unsold items typically returned to manufacturers. Notably, WECO indicated that the return rate for unsold products last year was lower than anticipated, suggesting a strong market demand.
WECO remains a dominant player in the German fireworks industry, employing around 260 people at its facilities in Eitorf and Kiel. The company reported a turnover of over €136 million (approximately $160 million) for the 2023-24 book year. Despite its significant presence, WECO produces only about 15% of its fireworks domestically, with the majority sourced from manufacturers in China.
Klaus Gotzen, the head of the pyrotechnics sector association, has identified a trend towards combined fireworks, which are designed to create extended displays with a single ignition. These products appeal to consumers looking for more elaborate celebrations.
While the demand for fireworks continues to rise, there is a growing backlash against them, particularly from animal welfare and environmental groups. Critics argue that fireworks can cause distress to wildlife, depleting the energy reserves of animals that need to survive the winter. In urban areas, such as Berlin, the New Year’s Eve festivities are often likened to scenes from a war zone, with significant noise and debris generated by the celebrations.
Environmental advocates highlight the waste produced by fireworks, raising concerns about their sustainability. The GdP police union has joined the call for stricter regulations, citing an increase in incidents where police officers are attacked with fireworks during celebrations.
The topic has sparked a dispute among Germany’s federal states. Interior ministers from the 16 states have yet to reach a consensus on implementing a nationwide ban on private fireworks displays. Recently, a court overturned a ban on fireworks on the North Sea island of Föhr, citing insufficient grounds for such restrictions.
Oliver Gerstmeier, WECO’s head of sales, views the rising demand as a clear indication that the majority of the population favors the tradition of celebrating with fireworks. He stated, “Ringing in the New Year with a colorful firework is a beautiful thing for many people. One should respect that instead of discrediting it with repeated debates on a ban.”
The fireworks industry maintains that incidents of misuse are primarily caused by a small minority of individuals, asserting that the majority of consumers still appreciate the spectacle of fireworks illuminating the New Year’s Eve sky.
