Blue Collar Workwear is a retail franchise focused on high-quality work boots, safety footwear, workwear apparel and flame-resistant (FR) gear. The business was founded in 1989 as a family-owned and operated enterprise in Olean, New York.

It remains headquartered at 2380 Constitution Ave., Olean, NY 14760. The brand began franchising in 2023 and is now offering franchise units in the U.S. with a proven model and support structure.

The brand caters to blue-collar workers and industrial customers by specialising in safety-toe footwear, FR clothing and a mobile shoe-truck service that reaches job sites within a 200-mile radius.

This clear focus on durable, purpose-built workwear distinguishes the company from general apparel retailers who do not cater so specifically to the trades market. Blue Collar Workwear positions itself as “your one-stop shop for all of your workwear needs,” emphasising customer service and product expertise.

Training

Blue Collar Workwear provides franchisees with a thorough training program to prepare them for successful business operations. The training includes classroom sessions, hands-on instruction, and optional ongoing support.

1. Initial Training: This consists of 41 hours of classroom instruction and 108 hours of on-the-job training. Topics include operations management, inventory, in-store processes, advertising, and an online module. Training is held in Olean, NY or another designated training center and must be completed to the franchisor’s satisfaction.
2. Opening Assistance: The franchisor offers pre-opening guidance, including help with site selection and store setup. Additional assistance beyond standard support is available at the franchisor’s then-current rates, plus expenses.
3. Ongoing Training: Franchisees may be required to attend up to two training sessions per year, such as seminars or webinars. These are typically held at the franchisor’s location or the franchisee's site at a rate of $250 per person per day, plus travel costs.
4. Replacement or Additional Training: If a designated manager cannot complete training, a substitute must attend and complete the program. Extra training is available either at the franchisor’s facility or at the franchisee’s location for an additional fee.

Territory Protection

Blue Collar Workwear provides franchisees with an exclusive territory, meaning no other company-owned or franchised outlets using the same or similar trademarks will be established within that geographic area.

This exclusivity is not dependent on sales performance or other operational benchmarks, and the franchisor may not alter the territory even if the population grows. The territory is typically defined by a three-mile radius or a population cap of 200,000 people, depending on the outlet type.

However, this territorial protection does not prevent the franchisor from using alternative distribution channels such as the internet, catalog sales, or telemarketing to make sales within the franchisee’s territory.