What We Spend Business is Booming
Aug 13, 2025
Follow a fireworks shop owner in Indiana during the chaotic week leading up to July 4th. Discover how modern technology has transformed consumer fireworks into dazzling displays. Hear about the tough lessons learned in family business management and community engagement. Get a glimpse of the daily hustle, from juggling errands to festive preparations. Enjoy humorous anecdotes of customer interactions and festive celebrations, all while reflecting on spending habits and the rich stories behind them.
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Long-Running Family Fireworks Shop
- Mick and his wife Marcella have run Montport Fireworks out of a 4,000 sq ft building for 26 years with a handshake lease and family staff. They treat the shop as semi-retirement, keeping other jobs and using fireworks income to supplement Social Security.
July Dominates Fireworks Revenue
- Consumer fireworks is a $2.2 billion U.S. industry and July dominates seasonal sales. Mick does roughly 80–85% of his yearly revenue in the week before July 4th, making that period critical and high-risk.
From Customers To Owners
- Mick and his brother started the business after realizing they spent too much on fireworks themselves. They found a permanent 4,000 sq ft building and opened instead of running pop-up tents like many vendors.