The Anderson name is associated with leadership, service, and vision. That legacy continues with Terry C. Anderson, chairman and CEO of American Promotional Events, Inc. American Promotional Events, Inc., better known as TNT Fireworks, was founded by his grandfather Clyde W. Anderson in 1920. TNT Fireworks has grown under three generations of family leadership into the largest distributor of consumer fireworks worldwide.
Today, TNT Fireworks is a global powerhouse, importing and distributing products throughout the United States, Asia, and Puerto Rico. Its products can be found in 49 states, reaching customers through more than 40,000 big-box retailers, grocery chains, wholesale clubs, and discount stores, as well as through over 5,000 seasonal stands and tents often operated by nonprofit and community organizations.
Terry is the third generation of the Anderson family to lead TNT Fireworks. Following family tradition, Terry joined the business to continue its legacy of responsible consumer fireworks sales and community partnerships. That legacy extends far beyond fireworks. “Terry has continued to strengthen the family legacy of philanthropy, community service, and civic leadership,” said University of North Alabama President Kenneth Kitts. “The University of North Alabama is proud to call Terry Anderson our friend.”
As CEO, Anderson has been at the forefront of expanding both the reach and the reputation of TNT Fireworks. Working closely with state leaders, he helped pave the way for the legal sale of consumer fireworks in 49 states. He also spearheaded the company’s groundbreaking partnerships with national retailers including Walmart, Target, Costco, Kroger, Publix, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and dozens more. These efforts solidified TNT’s presence across the country, making it the go-to brand for safe, high-quality fireworks.
Along the way, Anderson led major acquisitions including Pyrodyne America, Freedom Fireworks, Atlas Enterprises, and Red Devil Fireworks, which strengthened the company’s presence in the West and Northwest. By 2002, these acquisitions were unified under the TNT Fireworks brand, creating a single, trusted name for families celebrating holidays and special occasions nationwide.
Beyond TNT Fireworks, Anderson plays an influential role in several family-owned enterprises and ventures. He serves as chairman of Anco Far East Importers Ltd. in Hong Kong, which provides sourcing and supply chain solutions to businesses around the globe. He is also a director for Anderson Media Corporation, Books-A-Million, Inc., Whataburger NWAL Franchise, Anderson Growth Partners, B.A.S.S. LLC, and Renew Wellness Brands, LLC. Anderson’s impact goes beyond TNT. He was instrumental in the growth of Books-A-Million, which he helped transform from a regional bookstore into one of the nation’s largest booksellers. Similarly, his contributions to Anderson Merchandisers and Anderson Media Corporation have strengthened relationships with major retailers and expanded employment opportunities. Collectively, the Anderson family businesses employ more than 10,000 people nationwide, creating an enduring impact on both Alabama’s economy and the broader U.S. marketplace.
Philanthropy and community service remain cornerstones of Anderson’s leadership philosophy. He has given his time and expertise to numerous nonprofit organizations, serving on boards for The Salvation Army of the Shoals, Riverhill School Foundation, The Alabama Business Hall of Fame, The Alabama Kidney Foundation, The Fellowship of Christian Athletes, United Way of the Shoals, Healing Place of the Shoals, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the National Brain Tumor Society. Through this work, Anderson has extended his influence far beyond the boardroom, touching countless lives in his home community and beyond.
Anderson is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, having earned his Bachelor of Science in business administration. He was also a member of the Tennessee football team. He and his wife, Susan, live in Florence Alabama, and have three children, two daughters-in-law, three grandchildren, and a fourth grandchild expected in January.
