Scots fireworks firm 21CC buys online rival

A PYROTECHNICS company that has supplied fireworks for Edinburgh Castle and T in the Park has bought an online rival to boost its presence in the retail market.

21CC has staged firework displays for Edinburgh Castle, among many others. Picture: Contributed

Edinburgh-headquartered 21CC, which also organises events for weddings, corporate customers and local authorities, said the purchase of Largs-based Online Fireworks would also enable existing clients to put on “entry-level” displays.

Director Geoff Crow said: “Online Fireworks has been trading for many years offering online sales of fireworks to the general public and small private organised firework displays. The acquisition enables us to expand our online retail business to customers around the UK.”

He added: “This is a perfect marriage of businesses. It enables us to offer our clients a full suite of options for their event. This acquisition is an exciting milestone for 21CC Group and great news for the Scottish events industry.”

Online Fireworks was founded in 2006 and Companies House records show that the business was owned by “master blaster” Ian Sommerville.

21CC Group began life as a family business in 1999. It now employs nine permanent staff and manages a pool of more than 50 event crew.

Last month the firm helped to stage celebrations in Perth city centre to mark St Johnstone’s first major trophy following the team’s victory in the Scottish Cup final.