New fireworks sale law means more places to buy them
A law that went into effect in April could mean a boom in fireworks sales.
The law no longer allows cities and counties to restrict fireworks sales in commercial and industrial use zones.
That could mean more pop-up tents and more competition.
"We welcome the competition. We do it really well here," John McDonald of Grimes Factory Fireworks Outlet said. "We've developed a really good relationship with our customer base. We have been here for three years in the Grimes area.
McDonald believes the service, prices, location and customer service keep people coming back year after year.
McDonald also says he has an Ace up his sleeve — one that draws customers into the tent. That Ace? A giant inflatable gorilla.
"We have a gorilla outside that draws in a lot of people. It's probably one of our best marketing pieces. We have young kids that drive by and they want to come to see the gorilla every year," McDonald said.
The gorilla seems to be working, especially for customer Lincoln Jaschke, who likes the advertising and the bigger tent.
Grimes' Development Services Director said this year, fireworks tents increased by one over last year.
"We think that is largely because our codes were already in compliance with what was recently changed," said Alex Pfaltzgraff with the city of Grimes.
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