Boots made a significant contribution to the war effort and produced items for men at the Front, such as water sterilizers, vermin powder and anti-fly cream. Many fine chemicals such as aspirin and saccharin were previously imported from Germany and Jesse anticipated a shortage in supply. He enlarged the company's scientific laboratories and production facilities and manufactured for the government, domestic and overseas buyers. Over 900 women were involved in the manufacture of box respirators, used to combat enemy gas attacks. Over 5 million of these were produced during the course of the warAdd content here