The all-new Bobcat Safety Footwear incorporates Redbacks Leaf Spring Technology to absorb shock, reduce fatigue and provide all-day support for feet, knees and back.

For busy installers, contractors and other tradespeople working 10-12-hour days, often outdoors, it is especially important to prioritise wearability during the summer months, particularly as the UK recently recorded its hottest day in May on record. With this, Overland Shoes has asserted the critical role that the right pair of safety boots or shoes can play in reducing heat, improving comfort and making long hot days feel more manageable.

Among the extensive range, key summer solutions include the Knox, an athletic-inspired work trainer made from lightweight, breathable nylon and featuring a FITLOCK speed-lacing system for a secure, easy and comfortable fit throughout the day. Equally, the Rockford, shown in cool grey, is a durable, lightweight trainer-style shoe designed with a reinforced woven nylon upper and rubber toe guards to deliver all-day comfort and protection shift after shift.

Offering a significant opportunity for merchants and distributors to tap into the lucrative summer footwear opportunity, the Bobcat Safety Footwear launch is supported by a major national marketing and PR campaign, alongside dedicated PoS materials and social media promotion.

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When the going gets tough, the tough need good footwear. That’s why Bobcat is giving readers the chance to win one of two pairs of these high-performance, superior-comfort Dakota boots with an RRP of up to £125 each.

Launched by Overland Shoes, the experts behind some of the world’s most iconic footwear brands, the new-to-market Bobcat Safety Footwear range sets a new standard in durability, comfort and style for work shoes and boots.

The Dakota safety boot is one of the most popular in the range, built to deliver all‑day performance and protection shift after shift. At its core lies Bobcat’s advanced Leaf‑Spring Technology insole, engineered to return energy and reduce fatigue.

For the ultimate performance day-in day-out, the Dakota also features a rugged triple-density outsole, ladder grip, scuff cap resistance and fuel oil resistance. Meanwhile, an ankle zip ensures easy on-off convenience, while a hiker-style lace system delivers a secure, supportive fit. Coupled with a bold, stylish design, luxury textiles and breathable linings, the end result is the ultimate choice for busy electricians looking to move forward in comfort and confidence.

For more information please visit: www.bobcat-footwear.com

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning, simply choose the correct answer from following choices:

Q. What is the name of one of the most popular new safety boots now available from Bobcat Safety Footwear?

A) Dakota

B) Detroit

C) Dallas

Simply fill out the form below and tell us your answer for the chance to WIN!

Deadline for entries 31/08/26

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Setting goals in the electrical industry is essential for maintaining standards, meeting deadlines, and ensuring safe and efficient delivery of work. Whether working on installations, maintenance, or large-scale projects, clear goals help provide structure and direction.

However, the demands of the industry, tight deadlines, long hours, and high responsibility, can sometimes lead to pressure and imbalance.

Maintaining balance is key. Goals should support both performance and wellbeing, not come at the expense of safety or personal health. In a sector where attention to detail and decision-making are critical, fatigue, stress, and poor mental wellbeing can increase the risk of mistakes. Looking after yourself is not separate from doing a good job – it is a fundamental part of it.

Personal wellbeing in the electrical industry is often challenged by factors such as early starts, physical demands, travel, and high expectations. Over time, this can affect energy levels, focus, and mental health if not managed well. Recognising this early and building healthy habits can make a significant difference.

Understanding how to set realistic and sustainable goals is particularly important in this environment. Effective goals in the electrical industry are often:

• Clear, specific, and aligned with project requirements
• Realistic within time, staffing, and resource constraints
• Flexible to adapt to unexpected changes on site
• Focused on safety and wellbeing, not just productivity

Rather than focusing only on completing tasks quickly, it is important to prioritise doing the job safely and correctly. Consistent, steady progress, supported by good wellbeing, leads to better long-term results.

A useful way to check in with your own balance and wellbeing is to reflect on how your work is affecting you:

• Do I feel focused and in control, or constantly rushed?
• Am I getting enough rest and managing fatigue?
• How is my mood and stress level outside of work?
• Am I looking after my physical health as well as my workload?
• What is one small thing I can do today to support my wellbeing?

If you notice signs such as ongoing fatigue, irritability, lack of focus, or low mood, it may be time to take action. This could include taking proper breaks, speaking to a supervisor, adjusting your workload, or reaching out for support.

Looking after personal wellbeing can include simple but effective actions:

• Taking regular breaks to rest and reset
• Staying hydrated and eating regularly
• Getting enough sleep, especially during busy periods
• Making time outside of work to switch off and recharge
• Talking openly about stress rather than carrying it alone

It is also important to support others in maintaining both balance and wellbeing. In the electrical industry, strong teamwork and communication are essential, and people may not always speak up when they are struggling.

You can support others by:

• Checking in regularly with colleagues
• Encouraging open conversations about wellbeing and workload
• Being aware of signs of fatigue or stress in others
• Promoting a culture where asking for help is accepted
• Leading by example in working safely and taking care of yourself

Creating a supportive environment benefits not only individuals but the safety and performance of the whole team.

Ultimately, goal-setting in the electrical industry should not just be about getting the job done, but about doing it safely, sustainably, and in a way that protects your wellbeing. When personal health is prioritised alongside performance, it leads to better outcomes for individuals, teams, and the work itself.

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Bunker Load-Up’s brand new stackable drawers make storing, transporting and organising essentials even easier.

Busy tradespeople can choose a complete, fully built storage system such as the five-piece load up drawer stacking system or purchase individual drawers to create a custom storage set up. The new modular drawers can be put together with a choice of Bunker’s tough toolboxes, durable organisers, worktops and more.

Each modular accessory in the Load Up range is fully interchangeable and stackable, so your customers can load them up, stack them up and swap them out to suit their needs.

Whatever and wherever the job, with the Bunker Load-Up Stacking system your customers can securely transport all their kit to site with ease. Bunker Load-Up boxes and drawers seamlessly stack together offering total flexibility. What’s more, both the drawers and boxes feature tough locks for maximum security. With Bunker’s high-impact resistant construction and heavy-duty wheels, tradespeople can take on any terrain too.

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Welcome to the April issue of PEW. News headlines are dominated at the moment by wars and conflicts, whether it’s Russia- Ukraine, Gaza, or the wider Middle East region. Without getting bogged down in the politics – that’s for other channels – I’m sure we can all agree that war is a bad thing, more so for the people directly affected by it but also for the knock-on effects on the global economy.

Wars throughout history have been extensively covered by film and TV, and future catastrophic disasters are also depicted with varying causes and themes – I’m talking about the likes of The Day After Tomorrow, Greenland, Armageddon and The War of the Worlds. Many such films include storylines in which world leaders, scientists or other important figures are hidden away and protected in underground bunkers or secret bases (well apart from Bill Pullman’s President fighting the aliens in Independence Day). It got me thinking, who would be top of the UK’s list for protection should the end of the world become imminent. The Prime Minister and the reigning monarch are top of the list, whatever your views on them they are a given – some other politicians and royal figures might find themselves left behind! Moving on to trades, you have your key workers, in the medical field, food production and law enforcement among others. As much as I’d like to put myself forward as future editor of Nuclear Bunker Monthly, I feel print journalism might be a bit further down the pecking order. You want your bunker’s services to run smoothly and it to remain structurally sound, so construction professionals are of course a shoo-in.

In fact, tradespeople are sought-after in general anyway, without any national disaster. New research from welding specialist Tadweld has revealed the UK’s highest-earning trades for 2026, with bricklayers, carpenters and plumbers all in the top 20 – and electricians proudly top of the pile. It’s no secret that demand for electricians is booming. Between EV chargers, solar installs, battery storage and the general push toward electrification, there’s more work around than ever. The problem? Not enough people to do it. Contractors across the UK are still struggling to recruit qualified electricians, and many believe the industry needs a stronger pipeline of apprentices to keep up with future demand.

Scotland’s largest construction trade body, SELECT, has recently criticised the UK and Scottish governments for policies it says will undermine the electrical workforce of the future, with rising apprentice wages and decreasing financial support for taking on apprentices causing major concern. If the industry can’t bring enough new talent through the ranks, the skills gap could become the biggest challenge facing the electrical trade over the next decade.

One thing’s certain: the sparks are definitely flying in the sector right now.

– Tracey Rushton-Thorpe
Editor

Catch up on previous ‘Editor’s Viewpoint’ here

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Workwear is no longer worn only on site. Nick Pouslon at Carhartt explains what electricians now expect from their clothing and how wholesalers can respond with varied, flexible ranges.

The right workwear is important in every job and it should always be tough, durable and safe. But times are changing and workwear now has to do more than stand up to the job. The same clothing is often worn from the first fix of the day through wholesaler visits and into the evening or weekend. Durability still matters, but it is no longer the only factor influencing buying decisions. Comfort, fit and how workwear looks off site are increasingly part of the equation.

For electrical wholesalers, this creates an opportunity to strengthen workwear as a repeat-purchase category. Core, hard-wearing staples remain essential, but there is growing demand for kit that feels comfortable and presentable beyond the job. Ranges that reflect this reality are better placed to support consistent sales and customer loyalty.

Broadening choice

Black and dark colours continue to be a reliable seller and should remain readily available, but alternative colours and finishes are gaining interest. Neutral and heritage tones such as brown, grey, olive and cream offer a cleaner, less uniform look that many electricians are comfortable wearing away from site.

For wholesalers, responding to this demand doesn’t require large or complex ranges. Introducing a limited number of alternative colourways across proven products can offer customers choice while keeping stock manageable. Smaller items such as beanies or graphic T-shirts can also be used to add variety, providing easy add-ons at the counter without increasing risk. They are also typically lower in cost, simpler to size and well suited to repeat purchasing, making them a practical way to build basket spend.

Denim adapted

Denim is a good example of how established workwear categories have been adapted to suit modern working patterns. Traditionally chosen for toughness, denim could feel stiff, particularly when kneeling, climbing ladders or working overhead. Stretch technologies such as Carhartt’s Rugged Flex add flexibility while retaining durability. The added movement makes a noticeable difference on site, improving comfort during physical tasks. At the same time, stretch denim has a more relaxed feel that works away from the job. For wholesalers, it offers a familiar category that appeals to electricians looking for practical workwear without it feeling overly industrial.

The same applies to duck fabric. Known for its resistance to abrasion, tearing and wind, duck has long been associated with demanding environments. Adding a small amount of Rugged Flex improves mobility without compromising strength, making it better suited to long days that combine physical work with travel and site visits.

Comfort that holds up

Performance remains non-negotiable. Electricians still expect workwear to cope with physical tasks, changing weather and long days. What has changed is the expectation that comfort should last throughout the day.

Waterproofing is a clear example. Jackets that block rain are essential, but if they trap heat and moisture they can quickly become uncomfortable during physical work where the wearer builds up a sweat. Breathable waterproof fabrics allow moisture vapour to escape, helping the wearer stay dry without feeling cold or clammy.

Technologies such as Carhartt’s Storm Defender are designed to keep out heavy rain but have a breathable membrane which allows internal moisture to evaporate. This kind of technology is particularly useful when working hard outdoors in inclement weather. Durable water repellent (DWR) coatings also play an important role here, causing light rain to bead and run off the fabric while maintaining breathability, making garments more suitable for variable site conditions.

Any build-up of sweat can leave the wearer cold and clammy once it cools on the skin. Cotton might be soft and comfortable to wear but doesn’t make a good base layer as it stays damp. The trade need fabrics that wick sweat, dry quickly and help control odour keep clothes feeling fresher for longer, which matters when workwear is worn beyond site hours. Carhartt Force, for example, is made from a blend of cotton and polyester. It’s soft and comfortable but pulls moisture away from the skin and helps reduce odour build-up, giving all day comfort.

Lighter layers and women’s workwear

For electrical wholesalers, it is really important to supply women’s workwear ranges designed specifically for the trade rather than adapted from men’s products. As demand grows, having appropriate stock available helps support customers and strengthens the overall workwear offer.

Demand for lighter, more breathable workwear is particularly evident in women’s workwear, where those in the trade have been clear about wanting garments that don’t feel heavy or restrictive but still stand up to demanding environments.

New fabric developments are helping address this. Carhartt’s Tencel Fibre Series for women uses Tencel Lyocell fibres to create clothing that is lighter and softer while remaining durable. This range is breathable, regulates temperature and prevents moisture build-up, making clothing made of Tencel Lyocell suitable for both work and wear away from site. The range includes lightweight T-shirts, overshirts and joggers designed with practical use in mind. Stocking these lighter layers offers an opportunity to supply an underserved part of the trade and build longer-term customer loyalty.

Workwear is constantly developing with new technologies and better choice. Electricians still expect durability and performance but they are also buying with comfort, versatility and appearance in mind. Offering greater choice and clearly communicating product benefits can help build stronger customer relationships, encourage repeat purchasing and support consistent sales.

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Peter Lawson, Brand Manager for Overland Shoes, explains how wholesalers can help close the PPE gender gap and, in turn, reap the financial benefits.

Imagine the scene. It’s early morning on a new jobsite. You have eight hours ahead of you, most of which will be spent on your feet on hard, unforgiving surfaces. You pull on your safety boots and immediately feel it – they’re too wide, poorly shaped and uncomfortable. You’d ask for a better option but you already know there isn’t one because, as always, the only choice is a generic, male-designed safety boot. So, you make-do with footwear that was never designed for you and, worse still, may actively compromise your safety.

Sounds absurd, doesn’t it? Yet for many female electricians and other tradeswomen, this is the norm. For decades, safety footwear design has centred almost exclusively on the male workforce. When women have been considered at all, it has often been through a superficial ‘shrink it and pink it’ approach, rather than addressing the genuine anatomical differences between men and women. The result is a market saturated with products that simply don’t fit a significant and growing portion of the workforce.

The irony in this is that, instead of protecting the worker, poorly-fitting safety footwear can become a danger in itself. To put this into perspective, electricians and other trade workers walk an average of 10,393 steps per day. That’s nearly five miles every shift, or up to 25 miles each week. Most people wouldn’t dream of attempting that distance in poorly fitting footwear so it’s inconceivable that many women on site are expected to do so week in, week out, operating in sectors that are already considered high-risk.

And it’s not just a comfort issue. Beyond fatigue and reduced concentration, research shows that ill-fitting boots increase strain on the body, heighten the risk of slips and trips and can contribute to long-term musculoskeletal injury. Studies also demonstrate that women forced to adapt to male-designed footwear may alter their gait or posture, further compounding the risk of injury.

Comercial imperative

For wholesalers, as key suppliers of PPE, this represents both a responsibility and an opportunity. As the number of women entering electrics and other trade roles continues to rise, demand for properly designed, female-specific safety footwear will only increase. In this way, addressing the PPE gender gap is no longer a niche consideration but a growing commercial imperative.

The good news is that solutions are already emerging. This is seen in the recent arrival of the all-new Bobcat Safety Footwear women’s collection which has been purposefully designed to deliver the optimal balance of safety, comfort and style for women across all industries.

Engineered with insights from leading sports footwear technology and extensive research into the needs of working women, the dedicated women’s range – built across five distinct design handles – uses anatomically correct, gender-specific lasts to deliver true fit, real protection and all-day wearability.

At the heart of the range is comfort that works as hard as the wearer. Every model carries the signature Bobcat design language, with safety features tuned for real-world jobsite environments and the unique comfort advantage of Redbacks Leaf Spring Technology at the core. Unlike foam or gel inserts, which simply soften the impact, Leaf-Spring Technology helps promote better posture, balance and alignment and reduce strain on the lower body. This technology is particularly effective in reducing the risk of plantar fasciitis, a condition all too common among tradespeople who spend hours on unforgiving surfaces.

No sacrifice

Meanwhile, features such as lightweight materials, composite safety toe caps, metal-free construction and puncture-resistant midsoles ensure maximum protection without sacrificing flexibility or comfort.

Style is accounted for too with the collection spanning four distinctively bold, sharp contemporary styles, shown across 5 SKUs, designed to provide a tailored solution for the full spectrum of real-world requirements. For ultimate versatility, the Akron, available in sleek All-Black or on-trend Sage, brings all-day comfort with a trendy hiker-inspired look, breathable lining and triple-density outsoles. The Rockford adds a sportier edge, pairing a lightweight build with advanced safety features ideal for logistics and light assembly. Rounding out the range, the athletic Clinch keeps feet protected through tough shifts, while the Virginia steps up for high-heat environments with waterproof leather, heat-resistant soles and supportive wedge insoles.

The range also delivers a strong margin opportunity. With RRPs from £85 to £125, wholesalers can capture higher spend while offering a product that women in the trades genuinely want, need, appreciate and value. This is supported by a robust trade marketing strategy that proactively drives customers to the counter – from social media and influencer activity to targeted PR – boosting awareness, footfall and sales.

Closing the safety footwear gender gap is no longer a question of if, but who will lead the way. Those who recognise this shift and stock products that genuinely meet the needs of all workers won’t just be doing the right thing – they’ll be positioning themselves a step ahead of the rest of the market.

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Carhartt has Christmas all wrapped up with its exciting Christmas Gift Guide, a practical but festive line-up that’s ideal for tradespeople who want kit that works hard and still brings a touch of Christmas cheer.

Carhartt’s Relaxed Fit Outdoor Graphic T-Shirt is the sort of dependable cotton tee that always ends up at the top of the drawer pile, only this one comes with a playful ‘Hammy Outdoor’ graphic that brings a touch of fun to winter layering.

Stockings are a Christmas staple, and the Mountain Crew Sock 2 Pack earns its spot beside the fire. Available in both men’s and women’s versions, these wool-blend socks regulate temperature, wick sweat and prevent odour through long shifts. Cushioning at the heel, toe and arch keeps feet supported and abrasion-resistant yarns add durability for those who put in the miles every day.

For something small but seriously handy, the Carhartt Waist Pack makes a great stocking addition. It’s a no-fuss, showerproof bag built for the everyday essentials, with room for a phone, keys, cash and even a sneaky festive snack. For the tradesperson who’s always on the go, Carhartt’s Insulated 12 Can Two Compartment Lunch Cooler is a Christmas win. It will keep leftovers warm until lunch and cans cold for eight hours, with a separate top compartment that stops sandwiches getting squashed.

Of course, no Christmas gift list is complete without a hat or two. The women’s Knit Pom Jacquard Beanie brings festive spirit with a snowflake pattern and soft, stretchy construction that works with any winter outfit. For a bit of seasonal fun, the men’s Lookout Hat is reminiscent of Santa’s own, bright red with a pompom that adds enough Christmas cheer to raise a smile on even the coldest morning.

Whether you’re filling a stocking, wrapping something sturdier or making your own Christmas list, the Carhartt Christmas Gift Guide has plenty to choose from. From socks and sweaters to tool belts and trousers, it’s packed with practical gifts that bring a touch of festive fun to even the busiest trade schedule.

To view the Carhartt Christmas Gift Guide visit www.carhartt.com

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KNIPEX has become an Associate Supporter of Band of Builders, the national construction charity that carries out practical projects to help tradespeople facing life-changing or limiting circumstances.

Band of Builders brings together skilled volunteers from across the UK construction industry to complete projects that make a lasting difference to the lives of tradespeople and their families. From installing accessible bathrooms and building home extensions, to creating fully adapted outdoor spaces and delivering wellbeing support, the charity harnesses the skills and generosity of the trade to help those in need. As an Associate Supporter, KNIPEX will contribute to the success of these projects through a variety of fundraising activities, raising awareness across its UK customer base.

Founded in 2016, Band of Builders has delivered more than 35 projects across the UK, with a growing community of volunteers and supporters drawn from every corner of the industry. Each project is tailored to the specific needs of the beneficiary – often a tradesperson who has suffered injury, illness or bereavement – and delivered at no cost to the recipient.

The charity recently launched its Supporter Programme to provide structured ways for individuals and businesses to get behind its mission. Associate Supporters like KNIPEX play a key role in helping fund and facilitate the practical work that sits at the heart of Band of Builders’ impact.

“We know that being a tradesperson is about more than just the job – it’s a way of life, and one that comes with its share of risks and challenges. That’s why we believe in supporting organisations like Band of Builders, who are there for the trade when it needs it most. Together, we can make a real difference,” said David Barnes, Sales and Marketing Manager for KNIPEX UK.

For more information about Band of Builders and how to get involved, visit bandofbuilders.org.

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Hours outdoors leave tradespeople vulnerable to harmful UV rays, dehydration and heat stress. That’s why Carhartt has introduced the Sun Defender range – a collection of durable, high-performance workwear with built-in sun protection that doesn’t compromise on comfort or mobility.

Sun Defender fabric is rated to UPF 40+, offering maximum protection by blocking 98% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. The range includes lightweight, breathable garments that help workers stay cool and each piece in the collection is designed with Carhartt’s Force technology, which wicks moisture away from the skin and dries quickly to prevent discomfort in warm conditions.

For upper-body protection, Carhartt has introduced the Force Sun Defender Lightweight Long-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt. Made from a lightweight polyester blend, this long-sleeved top offers full arm coverage without adding unnecessary warmth. The breathable, fast-drying material actively pulls sweat away from the skin, keeping wearers cool even in direct sunlight.

For those who prefer short sleeves but still need UV protection, the Short-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt delivers the same moisture-wicking and quick-drying benefits along with UPF 40+ shielding. The relaxed fit ensures all-day comfort while the durable fabric is designed to withstand the demands of a tough working environment.

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