Selling Fireworks
Do you want to sell fireworks? Are you thinking about it? Do you already do it but want to know you are doing it right?
We as a nation love to celebrate with fireworks. Whether it’s a selection pack in the garden while celebrating Guy Fawkes, a rocket show to honour Diwali or teaching your child to write their name with a sparkler, memories are made with fireworks.
Fireworks originated in China around 2000 years ago, but here in the UK we have been firework fanatics since 1500’s, in fact it was the Royals, namely Queen Elizabeth I who really propelled the country’s joy for fireworks, and the industry has continued to grow.
This year many councils have cancelled their firework displays so more people will be looking to host their own garden displays. In these hard times we deserve some colours and vibrancy in our lives and remove the sense of feeling blue – which is in fact the one colour that you won’t find in fireworks as it’s the hardest to manufacture.
As a small business, selling fireworks over the next few months can generate some much-needed income, profit margins on fireworks are reputationally high, but it’s vital you do it in a way that is legal and without risks.
There are numerous laws that cover the storage and supply of fireworks, as well as the safety, classification and labelling of different types of fireworks.
Firstly, you will need to apply for a license to store and supply fireworks, this is usually through your local authority but in some areas it’s the fire service. They will inspect your premises when you apply and as well as looking at how you will store them, they’ll also want to make sure you understand the law regarding supplying to the public.
Only some types of fireworks can be sold to the public, you cannot supply professional fireworks.
As fireworks are classed as explosives they cannot be sent through the post, however this does not stop you from offering a delivery service, just ensure that your vehicle insurance is not affected, that you do not carry large amounts and transport them in your boot in the cardboard transport container.
How can we help?
On the face of it, unlike many other products, selling fireworks can look like a complex process, however we have managed to fit everything you need to know into a 1 hour course.
From simplifying the legal requirements and identifying fireworks, to information on storage, how to get a licence, and protection from underage sales.
Legal requirements – there are numerous pieces of legislation covering fireworks, but we explain the key pieces and why they are relevant to you. Not in legal jargon just in plain English.
Identifying fireworks – F1, F2 F3 what the F? Why do you need to recognise these codes and why is it important? It’s not rocket science -we simplify what to look for and why you need to know.
Storage and licencing go hand in hand – we explain the process of obtaining a licence by discussing the storage requirements and how to apply these to your business.
It’s likely that you might already be selling age restricted products – alcohol? tobacco? Well fireworks are another product you need to apply your age-restricted sales process to – we explain how to do this in a way that can act as a legal defence if a mistake was to happen.
The course is pre-recorded and accessible to you whenever is convenient. You will get access to the course materials and a certificate to evidence that you are a responsible retailer.
We’re here to help you to comply with the law surrounding fireworks as well as other trading standards legislation, if you’re not sure what applies to you then why not book a FREE 20 min Compliance Chat with us and we advise on your obligations.
