Graeme Parker has been wearing the same pair of Blundstone boots for nearly ten years, thanks to the craftsmanship of Ottawa cobbler Muhamad Merhi. Merhi, who operates his store inside the C.D. Howe Building in downtown Ottawa, will mark 25 years of business in 2026. Parker, a senior government adviser, praised Merhi for resolving shoe discomfort and creating a high-quality leather replacement handle for his suitcase.
Merhi, a skilled craftsman, inherited his trade from his shoemaker father in Lebanon before moving to Canada with his family in the 1980s. Despite economic fluctuations and external challenges, Merhi’s shoe repair business has thrived within the government building, attracting a loyal clientele of public servants over the years.
Observing fashion trends among Ottawa’s civil servants, Merhi has noticed the enduring popularity of Blundstone boots and the decline of zippered half boots. He also highlighted the detrimental effects of excessive sidewalk salt on shoes, emphasizing the importance of proper shoe care. Merhi takes pride in his ability to tackle challenging shoe repair tasks and values the personal connections he has built with his customers over time.
While acknowledging the declining presence of skilled cobblers, Merhi remains committed to his trade for at least another decade, driven by his passion for preserving and restoring footwear. His dedication to customer satisfaction and willingness to take on repair challenges set him apart in the industry.