Boot Barn said a growing share of its bulk workwear orders now comes from data-center construction, as AI infrastructure spending boosts demand beyond technology companies. CEO John Hazen said the retailer is monitoring nearby projects to determine which boots to stock, with regular work boots needed for site clearing and steel-toe boots for structural construction. Boot Barn has recorded comparable work-boot sales growth for five consecutive quarters across its nearly 600 stores. U.S. construction employment also rose by 22,000 jobs in August, according to the Labor Department. Brunt Workwear reported strong demand from California and Texas, where major AI infrastructure investments are concentrated, while the buildout faces questions about development speed and facilities’ energy and water use.