What’s on your list of the greatest products made in Britain? Join economics journalist Steve Duke as he criss-crosses the island to meet the people still making things in our factories and workshops. Hear the stories behind some of our most iconic products, told by the people crafting them. Series 6 (numbers 51 to 60 on our list) arrives late summer. “A gem of a series” – Podcast Rex “Thoughtful and warm” – The Guardian ***** “A wonderful, life-affirming podcast” ***** “Important listening with a light touch” 2005 – British Podcast Awards – Silver Award 2005 – Independent Podcast Awards – Shortlisted 2004 – British Podcast Awards – Shortlisted 2004 – Independent Podcast Awards – Winner Have a suggestion for what needs to go on our list? Whatsapp me on 07767 888 319. Say hello on Instagram @thefactorynextdoor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
What this show covers
manufacturingcompilation episodeBritish manufacturingkilt-makingScotlandheritagetraditional craftcustom fabricationleadershipworkplace culturefactory tourroyal traditionceremonial dressBritish craftmilitary tailoring
What listeners will find here
Inside Edinburgh’s bid to keep hand-sewn kilt-making alive
Traditional hand-sewn kilt-making takes center stage as the show visits a workshop near Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Gordon and Louise of Nicolson Kiltmakers explain the craft, the calculations behind the pleats, and why provenance matters as they work to preserve a fading skill.
A bespoke storage factory turns out to be building a 15-meter helter skelter
This episode visits Moduflex in Avonmouth, where a bespoke storage maker is also crafting a towering helter skelter. Along the way, managing director Richard Blunden talks about surviving serious fraud, building employee culture, and why designing beside the factory floor matters.
Inside Savile Row’s workshop for the King’s ceremonial uniforms
The ceremonial uniform takes center stage as Jules Walker of Gieves and Hawkes tours the workshop behind the red-and-gold jackets worn by His Majesty’s Gentleman at Arms. The episode mixes royal pageantry, specialist tailoring, and a wider conversation about how Britain values its crafts.
A century-old pencil keeps Birmingham’s pen-making legacy alive
Birmingham’s once-dominant pen industry is the focus here, through a visit to YARD-O-LED in the city’s jewellery quarter. Owner Giles English tours the historic workshop, explains the company’s unusual name, and reflects on craft, loss, and life after Bremont.
Inside the small London team making Britain’s Remembrance wreaths
The Remembrance Wreath takes center stage as this episode visits The Poppy Factory in Richmond, where poppy wreaths for Remembrance Sunday are made. It explores the craft, the people behind it, and the unexpected skills and stories woven into the production line.
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