Derbyshire Makers – Rockfall
Founded in 1997, family-owned Rock Fall has revolutionised the health and safety footwear industry, while remaining loyal to their grand Derbyshire roots.
During a conversation with one of the Directors, Richard Noon, Richard explained the growth and development of Rock Fall from their humble origins. “We started in the markets back in the late eighties selling slippers and sports trainers. Eventually, we moved into retail shops, but the market had become saturated with people selling footwear. So, the decision was made to specialise in developing a new brand of safety footwear.”
Rock Fall are now a prominent industry player winning awards such as ‘Best Innovation in Footwear’ at the Annual Professional Clothing Awards in 2017, 2018 and 2019. An amazing three years in a row!
We can understand why these awards were well deserved by looking at their array of new and innovative products such as the RF002 Zinc. This fully conductive trainer is an industry first in Europe, and was designed in collaboration with contractors in the aerospace and defence industries to counter explosive atmospheres.
They herald health and safety, not only as an integral principle, but also as a creative canvas, allowing them to stand at the forefront of the safety footwear industry. Using world first innovations to provide safe, durable footwear that can withstand the most extreme challenges and environments.
Now into their second generation under the care of Stephen’s sons, Richard and Matthew, their head offices are on Wimsey Way, Alfreton. Locals may have spotted the famous, red three-mountain logo atop the business.
Working solely with world-leading component manufacturers such as LWG-accredited tanneries, FORCE10, BOA and Ortholite, Richard explains how their business operates.
“Regarding our customers, we don’t sell directly to the consumer, but supply businesses via Authorised Distribution partners who work closely with major end-users.”
While they don’t deal directly with the customer, they ensure the businesses they supply have the diverse products needed to suit every industry each step of the way.
Richard gave us a little more insight into the company’s current developments, and future plans.
“We’re opening up distribution warehouses across the globe. We currently have one in America, and are opening another in the Republic of Ireland, and the Netherlands. We also have plans for the Middle East and Africa. Regarding UK production, we have plans to open a new factory on the outskirts of Manchester by September 2025. Furthermore, we’re looking into other markets, such as hiking and leisure.”
Richard and his team are no strangers to choppy waters, but they have sailed through with a positive attitude and mindset.
“The key is to keep adapting. We follow market trends closely and always try to stay ahead of the game. Don’t get us wrong, COVID-19 certainly wasn’t a glamorous year, but we adapted massively during 2020, including putting up gazebos so our guys could sell shoes outside shops. I wouldn’t say it’s a positive, but we made the best of a bad situation!”
The number of world firsts that document their success indicates their ability to grow as a brand. Each boot is carefully curated and meticulously designed for each industry, regardless of the wearer’s gender. As one of the only British brands to release a range of women’s safety footwear, they are light-years ahead regarding social vision.
Speaking of championing equality, they are even verified by the Vegan Society. As per their mission for sustainability, they have delivered on their promises by using fully recyclable shoe boxes with renewable and biodegradable soy ink and installed LED lighting across the business to reduce the amount of CO2 previously produced by 15 tonnes per year.
The future for Rock Fall looks very bright, as Richard spells out in no uncertain terms his ambitions.
“We have many new products coming through which use hugely sustainable properties, such as bio-based and recycled materials. We are looking towards smart footwear, including footwear that identifies foot issues. One particular product, where the wearer taps their feet together twice and the emergency services will be automatically called, is in the pipeline. This is perfect for high-risk environments such as security personnel. We’re even working on one that can measure the sweat content that the wearer produces which from there could measure potential health issues.”
Most importantly, we are assured they’ll continue to keep their Derbyshire roots, and maintain their triumphant position as offering the industry’s finest boot.
