Thomas Boyle, 24, from Childwall has opened his first shop after turning a bedroom shoe-cleaning hobby into a thriving business. The entrepreneur started Crep Recovery after spotting an opportunity to help Scousers maintain their expensive trainers.
From bedroom to shop floor
What began as cleaning shoes for friends quickly grew through word of mouth. After four months, Thomas was working with Liverpool businesses selling second-hand shoes and decided to quit his day job. His journey saw him move from his bedroom to a shed, then a loft, and finally to an office space.
TikTok videos helped boost his profile, with viral content bringing in more customers. Thomas officially opened his shop at 161-163 Queens Drive in Childwall on August 16.
Viral moments and recognition
The business has brought memorable moments, including going viral with TikTok star Spudman after cleaning his work shoes. Thomas said: "At first, this was a side hustle. But the side hustle turned into a full-time business."
Speaking about the growing recognition, he added: "Even when I'm abroad I'm getting noticed. We went away about two months ago and someone bought me a pint in the airport."
