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 | 63 | Founded | 3 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | EntrepreneurshipArtsBusinessDesign | |||
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Latest Episodes
It’s truly one of our greatest materials. We make shoes from it; clothes, books, bags and furniture. Leather is extraordinary.
Over the millennia, we’ve become adept at using it. Today, in a West London workshop, a group of craftspeople continue to... more
For 500 years highland dress has been synonymous with Scotland, but these days there are more kilt-makers in India than within its home country.
On today’s The Factory Next Door we head to a workshop just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where efforts ar... more
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
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- Lovely podcast
Really nice insight into very interesting business crafts
Apple Podcasts5A Westbury's K
Ireland6 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 Kingdom6 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
Canada8 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 | #21 | United Kingdom/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Apple Podcasts | #91 | United Kingdom/Business |
Apple Podcasts | #149 |  Italy/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Apple Podcasts | #120 |  Netherlands/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Apple Podcasts | #142 |  Brazil/Business/Entrepreneurship |
Apple Podcasts | #169 |  South Korea/Business/Entrepreneurship |
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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 thoughtful tour through Britain's manufacturing and craft scene, spotlighting small to mid-size factories, family-owned workshops, and heritage brands. Episodes center on hands-on production, skilled trades, and the people behind iconic goods—from ceremonial uniforms and precision tools to bespoke textiles and vintage horology. The host blends factory floor walkthroughs with intimate conversations that reveal craft, resilience, succession, and the economics of keeping manufacturing alive in the UK. Notable throughlines include heritage branding, ethical sourcing, and the human impact of making things locally, often paired with forward-looking pivots in design, technology, and sustainable practices that resonate with listeners who care abo... more
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How many listeners does The Factory Next Door get?
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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. Full Disclosure with James O'Brien
2. Sliced Bread
3. What's Up Docs?
4. The Rest Is Politics
5. The Louis Theroux Podcast
How many episodes of The Factory Next Door are there?
The Factory Next Door launched 3 years ago and published 63 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. Gordon Nicolson
2. Louise Nicolson
3. Richard Blunden
4. Jules Walker
5. Giles English
6. Jeff Short
7. Steve Pleasance
8. Emma Willis
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