Those boots are made for working!

Unlike many, John Smith of Smiths Footwear put away his walking shoes over the lockdown and pulled on his safety boots.

“I was lucky that I had started online trade in the safety business,” he explained of his website www.workboots.ie that took off during the pandemic with a range of men’s, women’s and children’s work boots.

The Irish-based website is now shipping all over the country with orders flowing in, even as the Celt spoke with John.

John saw a void in the Cavan area and beyond and, being the innovative entrepreneur he is, created the website to meet the demand for safety gear coming from the agricultural and construction sectors in particular.

“Everybody needs safety... Legally they have to have a safety boot.”

He supplied the sectors that never stopped throughout the pandemic. With a “huge” customer return rate, five-star reviews and 100% traceable packages delivered with An Post, John’s safety gear is much sought after.

A father, as well as a businessperson, John knows that accidents can happen and recommended his safety boots for kids.

“With young children on the farm for the summer, a pair of boots is the only job... A trailer will fall on a toe, or they’ll stand on a palette with a nail in it.

“They’re fit for anything,” he said confidently.

John praised the Cavan Enterprise Office where he attended courses to aid his online business.

“It was a brilliant help,” he said, recommending their services “without a shadow of a doubt”.

“The pandemic built another business for me,” he said of the venture.

Despite his online presence, John is delighted to see his regulars in store again.

With a chatty and upbeat personality, customers can be assured of a huge Cavan “well!” from John upon entering the shop.

“Yes, we’ve a big online business but it’s nice to get the interaction... you miss chatting with your customers.”

Smiths Footwear provides customer service “as Irish people can” and has new stock walking in the door all the time.

Fitting service

They provide shoes for occasions, comfort, running, walking and working with brands such as Rieker arriving every week.

They also have a fitting service for children, for which there was “a big pent-up demand” after the Government allowed fittings to take place by appointment in April.

“I wouldn’t sell kids shoes online nor won’t... For the benefit of the child, you must fit correctly,” he warned that improper shoes can lead to joint problems in later life.

“We know if there is any issue,” he said as they inspect the old shoe, checking for uneven wear and twists.

Looking forward, John is positive and in no doubt that Cavan Town will survive and thrive.

“Cavan has everything that anyone could need.

“The town is looking well, it’s tidy... We have top class hotels; the eateries are brilliant with award-winning restaurants and chefs.

“It’s a good package,” he praised.

He thanked all his customers for their support throughout the pandemic and looks forward to seeing them in-store again.

Check out: www.workboots.ie