Firecracker vendors in Salem are facing a significant downturn this festive season, with reports indicating a 25% drop in profits attributed to rain and the rise of online sales. The traditional sale of firecrackers commenced just days ago, with 42 temporary shops now operating at the Corporation grounds near the Salem New Bus Stand as of October 17, 2025.
Out of 210 applicants for temporary firecracker stalls, the Salem City Police and Revenue Department have granted permits for 196. Many sellers, however, are expressing concerns over how adverse weather and the competitive pricing of online vendors are impacting their sales. G. Ramesh Kumar, owner of RK Crackers World and a seller in Salem, Dharmapuri, and Erode districts, noted that significant disruptions in firecracker production have occurred due to recent fire accidents at manufacturing units in Sivakasi, leading to a scarcity of certain types of crackers.
In addition to accessibility issues, the prices of firecrackers have surged by about 40% compared to last year. For instance, a digital bomb cracker that sold for ₹350 in 2024 now retails for ₹600, while a small packet of Kuruvi crackers has jumped from ₹7 to ₹10. Ramesh further highlighted the introduction of unique products this year, including fanciful designs like Hanuman gada, music guitars, and other creative cracker varieties priced between ₹350 and ₹600.
The trend of online sales is particularly concerning for brick-and-mortar businesses. Many vendors are marketing lower-priced, potentially substandard products to attract customers, creating pressure for traditional shop owners who struggle to compete on price without compromising quality. “Customers often arrive wanting the same prices they see online,” Ramesh admitted. He reassured shoppers that every firecracker sold in his shops is guaranteed to function properly. “If not, customers can return them for a refund,” he added.
Despite the current hurdles, Ramesh and other shop owners remain optimistic that sales will rebound. “We’re hopeful that Sunday will see a surge in customer turnout,” he stated, reflecting a common sentiment among vendors who look to the upcoming festivities for relief from declining sales.
As the festival season progresses, it is clear that both traditional firecracker sellers and online retailers are adapting to an evolving marketplace, where weather conditions and consumer preferences play a pivotal role in business strategies. The shifts in purchasing behavior may reshape the landscape for firecracker sales in Tamil Nadu, highlighting the importance of quality and customer assurance in a competitive environment.
Published – October 18, 2025, 07:01 PM IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/rain-online-sale-of-firecrackers-affect-business-say-dealers/article70178377.ece
Category : Coimbatore
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Publish Date: 2025-10-18 19:01:00
