The Factory Next Door
Steve DukeWhat’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.
“A gem of a series” – Podcast Rex
“Thoughtful and warm” – The Guardian
***** “A wonderful, life-affirming p... more
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 61 | Founded | 3 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | EntrepreneurshipArtsBusinessDesign | |||
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Latest Episodes
You never quite know what you’re going to find when you visit one of our manufacturers.
On today’s episode of The Factory Next Door, we head to Avonmouth to visit a bespoke storage maker – but what we discover is far from expected.
We hear storie... more
When you need someone to escort the King’s crown to Parliament for the state opening, you call on his Majesty’s Gentleman at Arms – with their distinctive red and gold jackets.
And when you need someone to make a new uniform for this historic corps,... more
The epicentre of the global pen industry used to reside in Birmingham. Then the plastic biro arrived and everything changed.
But in the city’s jewellery quarter, a team of skilled silversmiths are ensuring the history of Birmingham’s pen industry co... more
Inspired by a poem about the horrors of war, the red poppy is worn by millions of people every year to commemorate those who have died in conflict.
And every November, on Remembrance Sunday, poppy wreaths of varying sizes are placed beside graves an... more
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Reviews
- Lovely podcast
Really nice insight into very interesting business crafts
Apple Podcasts5A Westbury's K
Ireland5 months ago - A little hit of positivity
In a country being run into the ground by a government who couldn’t be trusted to even run a bath, I was looking for some positivity about manufacturing in my beloved country. I found it here, definitely feel-good and gave me a little shot of optimism. It is now 2026 and these podcasts are from 3 years ago, so I sincerely hope these little businesses are still functioning and have not been forced to close because of the new regulations imposed by the current crop of politicians.
Apple Podcasts52Br2
United Kingdom5 months ago - Love it
I’m not in the UK, but love the stories of companies who are truly building things. My fave was the one about Curry & Paxton, which not only had a fascinating history, but also got me to buy a pair of their frames. Keep it up Steve!
Apple Podcasts5benry
Canada7 months ago - It’s like we’re touring the factory with him
So refreshing to have a break from the usual conversational podcasts and to go on an actual tour of the factories with Steve. It really feels like we’re with him and I’m loving the stories. Thank you.
Apple Podcasts5Eade1United Kingdom10 months ago - Wonderful
I love learning about all the creative makers in The Factory Next Door! I feel like I am exploring the factory with Steve, sitting beside him while listening to the wonderful, wholesome people that he interviews!
Apple Podcasts5VVB-R
Australiaa year ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #27 | United Kingdom/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Apple Podcasts | #141 | United Kingdom/Business |
Apple Podcasts | #28 |  Italy/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Apple Podcasts | #165 | Italy/Business |
Apple Podcasts | #12 |  South Korea/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Apple Podcasts | #78 |  Brazil/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Talking Points
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Audience Metrics
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Factory Next Door
What is The Factory Next Door about and what kind of topics does it cover?
A thoughtfully paced exploration of Britain's manufacturing heart, focusing on how small and heritage factories keep traditional crafts alive while embracing modern challenges. Episodes center on factory tours, founder and worker stories, succession, supply chains, and the emotional and social value of making things at home. A recurring thread is the human side of production—family dynamics, pride in craftsmanship, and the tension between heritage and modernization—with hosts highlighting brands from pottery and scissors to knitwear and fashion. A notable strength is the host's on-site, conversational approach that makes intricate production processes accessible and inspiring, often weaving in brand revival narratives and industry-wide chal... more
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How many listeners does The Factory Next Door get?
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What are the audience demographics for The Factory Next Door?
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How many subscribers and views does The Factory Next Door have?
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Which podcasts are similar to The Factory Next Door?
These podcasts share a similar audience with The Factory Next Door:
1. The Food Programme
2. Desert Island Discs
3. The Louis Theroux Podcast
4. Homing
5. Rosebud with Gyles Brandreth
How many episodes of The Factory Next Door are there?
The Factory Next Door launched 3 years ago and published 61 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact The Factory Next Door?
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What guests have appeared on The Factory Next Door?
Recent guests on The Factory Next Door include:
1. Richard Blunden
2. Jules Walker
3. Giles English
4. Jeff Short
5. Steve Pleasance
6. Susan Rose
7. Paul Jacobs
8. Nick Wright
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.