Make it British Podcast

Regular listeners to this podcast will know that I am all about encouraging brands to manufacture locally. But in some cases, it might not make good sense to do so.In this episode I explain the 4 reasons why you might NOT want to make in the UK.Want my advice on whether your product should or[...]

One of the questions that came up on one of our recent British Brand Accelerator group coaching calls was so good, I thought I'd bring it to you on the podcast this week.The question was about whether a small business that makes in the UK should be offering a discount when someone opts in to[...]

This week I’m bringing some very sad news - that the UK’s only cotton spinning mill, English Fine Cottons, which brought cotton spinning back to Greater Manchester in 2018, has very sadly gone into administration.In case you don’t know about the history of English Fine Cottons, it was set up by the technical textile spinners[...]

Today's guests are Andrea and David Courtney from Courtney & Co buttonmakersBack in 2012 I was contacted by someone who was trying to save the UK’s last remaining horn button maker - Grove & Sons. He was looking for investors to buy up the machinery and pattern books from the business so that the art[...]

This episode celebrates 15 years since I registered the domain makeitbritish.co.uk and busts some of the myths about UK manufacturing.You'll find out:Why I started Make it British and why I'm such a firm believer in UK manufacturing.The current UK manufacturing landscape.How the UK fashion and textile industry is made up of 1,000s of micro factories.How[...]

Christopher Nieper OBE is the managing director of David Nieper, a womenswear business in Alfreton in Derbyshire. The firm was set up by Christopher's parents sixty years ago and is now one of the most vertical textile operations in the UK. Christopher recently invested in state-of-the-art digital printing equipment so that the factory can print it's[...]

In this episode of the Make it British podcast, Karen McCluckie, the director of Bealies Adaptive Wear, shares her inspiring journey of creating adaptive clothing for wheelchair users and disabled individuals.Motivated by her son's disability and the lack of suitable clothing options in the market, Karen embarked on a mission to design stylish and functional[...]

This week I’ve been in the Midlands visiting factories, which is always one of my favourite things to do.I’d planned to take my podcast mic with me and get an episode to you today with an interview with one of the manufacturers, but sadly I was in such a rush when I set off early[...]

Today's episode is all about selling and sales, and how it's closely linked to product development.A lot of creative business owners say that they aren't any good at selling, so the natural tendency is to drop their prices or default back to making more products.I'm going to give you a different way of looking at[...]

Hear from 21 business founders as they give their tips on starting and growing a British-made brand.These snippets were taken from 21 different guest interviews on this podcast.If you want to listen to the full episodes you can find them as follows:Ep.142 Julie Deane, Cambridge Satchel CompanyEp.076 Jack Millington, Billy TanneryEp.143 Kath Whitworth, Celtic &[...]

On today’s episode I’m chatting with Catherine Bedford, founder of Dashel Cycle HelmetsCatherine had the idea for an innovative and stylish cycle helmet whilst watching the London 2012 Olympics. She set about creating her vision, and it took 5 years to develop and launch the Dashel helmet. All Dashel helmets are made in the UK,[...]

Welcome to Episode no.284!Circularity is the buzzword on everyone's lips right now. It's no wonder, when you hear that 350,000 tonnes of clothing goes to landfill in the UK every year. Something needs to be done to stop the mass-consumption that the UK in particularly seems to be pretty bad at!The United Repair Centre, a[...]

Today's guest is Lydia Bolton, a slow fashion designer tackling textile waste by upcycling unwanted fabrics and garments and turning them into one-off pieces.As well as having her own label, Lydia also teaches others how to upcycle with workshops that she runs and in her partnerships with big brands such as Lidl, Nike, Adidas and[...]

How to find fabrics, leathers and other raw materials for your brand, and avoid the most common mistake that many people make when sourcing fabric.FURTHER RESOURCESUK Fabric Mills on the Make it British websiteHANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate This Podcast

Sampling with UK manufacturers can be quite a different ball game to sampling with manufacturers overseas. Here's why you might not want to sample with lots of different factories.FURTHER RESOURCESQuiz: Are you ready to work with a UK factory? HANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagram

Tempted to skip this step? Find out why that might be a bad idea, and how having a tech pack can save you money in the long run.FURTHER RESOURCESTech Pack BundleQuiz: Are you ready to work with a UK factory? HANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate This Podcast

A Non Disclosure Agreement is a legal document you might ask a manufacturer to sign in order to protect your designs.Find out what the pros and cons are of asking a manufacturer to sign an NDA, and what the alternatives are.FURTHER RESOURCESHow to find a UK manufacturerHANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate This Podcast

What are the secrets to getting a response from a manufacturer when you reach out to them? I explain how to word your approach and why you might not be getting a response.FURTHER RESOURCESHow to get manufacturers to respond to your emailsHow to find a UK manufacturerWhy manufacturers aren't getting back to your emailsHANDY LINKSBritish[...]

What are the main costs that you will incur to start a brand, and how can you save money by making your product in the UK?FURTHER RESOURCES25 Hidden Costs of Starting a BrandHow Much Does it Cost to Start a UK-Made Fashion Brand?How to Start a UK Made BrandHANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate[...]

Discover the best ways to the ideal UK manufacturers for your brand, and how to ensure that they get back to you every time.FURTHER RESOURCESMake it British Manufacturer Directory5 Steps to Finding a UK ManufacturerHow to Start a UK Made BrandHANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate This Podcast

You might think that having the factory source your fabric for you sounds like the easiest option, but that's not always the case.In this episode I explain what your options are when it comes to fabric sourcing, and why many UK clothing manufacturers operate on what is known as a CMT basis.FURTHER RESOURCESCMT or Full[...]

Find out how long on average it might take to launch a brand and what the main variables are that will affect it.FURTHER RESOURCES5 Steps to Finding a UK ManufacturerHow to Start a UK Made BrandHANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate This Podcast

Discover the essential steps to turn your idea into a successful prototype.Get practical advice on how to bring your concept to life efficiently and cost-effectively and how to common pitfalls.FURTHER RESOURCES5 Steps to Finding a UK ManufacturerHow to Start a UK Made BrandHANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate This Podcast

Welcome to Episode 272 of the Make it British PodcastStarting off the new year with something a bit different. This episode explains everything.Looking out for my special FAQ series, starting on Monday 7th January.HANDY LINKSBritish Brand AcceleratorMake it British WebsiteYouTubeInstagramRate This Podcast

Hello and Welcome to Episode 271!As 2023 draws to a close, and for my last podcast episode of the year, I reflect back on the 3 biggest lessons that I've learnt this year.I also want to say a massive thank you to everyone that has listened to this podcast over the last 12 months. I[...]

Welcome to episode 270!In this episode I'm chatting with the fascinating Mark Shayler about all things sustainability.Mark is the author of You Can't Make Money From a Dead Planet, he consults with businesses big and small to help them do better when it comes to their environmental footprint, and he is one of the co[...]

Hello and welcome to episode 269 of the Make it British podcast!At the time of recording this we are just a month away from the start of 2024, and that can only mean one thing - time to start planning!If that idea fills you with dread, because you are a 'wing it and see' type[...]

Welcome to Episode 268 of the Make it British Podcast!In this episode, I am joined by Laura Ward, founder of the luxury British tennis brand Exeat.Exeat is the UK's most exported luxury tennis apparel brand, and Laura herself is the winner of many awards, including Global Startup of the Year. She's also one of the government's UK export champions, and the brand has been feature in Vogue, Forbes, The Financial Times, and Vanity Fair.In this episode, she's going to give you tips on how to export your brand globally and how she's managed to get such amazing press in such a short space of time.ABOUT EXEATExeat WebsiteExeat InstagramRESOURCES MENTIONEDUK Export AcademyCiment PleatingMade in the UK, Sold to the World HANDY LINKSBritish Brand Accelerator - Apply now to work with me to[...]

Welcome to episode 267 of the Make It British Podcast!In this episode, I share my recent experiences at the All Party Parliamentary Group for ethics and sustainability in fashion at the Houses of Parliament, organised by Fashion Roundtable.You can hear the full speech that I gave on the importance of localism, transparency, and ethical practices[...]

Welcome to Episode 266 of the Make it British Podcast!In this episode I discuss how and why investing in your own personal development can dramatically transform your business. I share insights from my own personal development journey and provide valuable advice on how investing in yourself can make a massive difference to your business growth.We'll[...]

Welcome to Episode 265 of the Make it British Podcast!In this episode I'm chatting with Pip Chawner, who is the founder of womenswear brand Philippa London. Pip has got some fantastic tips to share about her experiences of setting up her brand; some of the challenges she's had along the way, including a bit of[...]

Welcome to Episode 264 of the Make it British Podcast!What are the red flags to watch out for when searching for a manufacturer, particularly if you're starting your search on Google or another search engine?From misleading claims of being a UK manufacturer to refusing to sign NDAs and the importance of visiting the factory floor.[...]

Welcome to Episode 263 of the Make it British Podcast!Today I'm chatting to Clare Winton from Grow Wild Outdoorwear, a new brand for women in pregnancy and the early stages of motherhood.Clare had the idea to develop her maternity brand three years ago, and started, as many start-ups do, by searching Google to find a[...]

Welcome to episode 262 of the Make it British Podcast!In this episode, l explore the factors that go into setting the perfect price, from understanding your customer and competitors to considering the cost of alternatives.Join me as we unravel the secrets behind pricing strategies for product-based businesses that make in the UK. Get ready to[...]

Welcome to episode 261 of the Make It British Podcast!In this episode, you get the lowdown on why I ended up taking a 6 month break from podcasting. And why I've decided to make some big changes in my business.There's also some valuable advice on knowing when it's time to make changes in your own[...]

Hello and welcome to Series 6 of the Make it British podcast. After a 6 month break the Make it British Podcast is coming back! The first episode will be released on Friday 6th October 2023.I have so much to fill you in on! Thanks to everyone that has requested more podcast episodes. It wasn't until[...]

In this episode I discuss some of the hidden costs of manufacturing, and offer tips on how to avoid them.Whether you're starting a new brand, or growing an existing one, there's typically five common areas where costs can spiral out of control, but the good thing is, they are all easily avoidable.Topics covered in this[...]

In this episode I'm joined by Tamara Cincik, founder of think tank Fashion Roundtable to discuss the impact of Brexit on small UK textile businesses. We delve into the challenges of supporting and promoting heritage brands, the need for trade associations to refocus their agendas, and the importance of heritage manufacturing in the textile industry.[...]

We get a lot of people contacting us at Make it British asking if we can put them in touch with a sustainable or ethical factory to make their brand. So in this episode I define ways in which a factory might meet this criteria.I also talk about the launch of Primark's new circular denim[...]

24th April 2023 marks the ten year anniversary of the collapse of the Rana Plaza garment factory in Bangladesh, which killed over 1,000 workers and injured 2,500 more.To mark the occasion, I look back on this episode of the podcast with Dominique Muller from Labour Behind the Label, in which we discuss the issues around fast[...]

Do you know what the no.1 reason is that product businesses fail? It's not legal problems, it's not finance problems, it's not even marketing problems. In this episode, you'll find out what it is, and how to avoid it.You'll learn:Why everything starts with the customer [03:47]The reasons why getting your target customer right will help[...]

Download my Selling Price > Profit Calculator that goes with this episode here.Recently Bentley Motors announced their financial results for 2022, which revealed they'd had their best year ever. This is a luxury car brand, made in the UK, having a phenomenal year during a cost of living crisis.In this episode I discuss what small[...]

If you love factories, then today I have a little treat for you, as we are going on a factory tour with Contrado, who are a print on demand company.Contrado are a truly impressive UK manufacturer. They not only print fabric, leather and other surfaces like glass and pottery, in their huge facility in West[...]

When you run a UK-made brand you need to wear a lot of different hats!In this episode we explore all of the different jobs you need to do and the skills you need to have, on top of producing fantastic products.You'll learn:Why being the chief executive officer of your business is your first title [03:08]How[...]

On today’s episode I am chatting to Maxine Wells, who is the founder of Intimate Apparel Samples, a small lingerie studio in North West London.Getting lingerie made in the UK can be challenging. Whilst the UK once had thousands of machinists making underwear for the likes of Marks & Spencers, sadly there are only now[...]

Welcome to Series 5!After taking a couple of months hiatus to focus on writing my book, I'm back with a brand new series.I'll be answering all of your most commonly asked questions about manufacturing, marketing and selling products that are made in the UK, and have some fantastic guests lined up for this series too.In[...]

Hello and Welcome to Series 5 of the Make it British Podcast. The new series is coming very soon. The first episode will be released on Friday 3rd March.In the meantime, I wanted to tell you about a few things we have coming up, that if you are a listener of this podcast you will probably be[...]

Having worked with hundreds of British brands over the last few years, and speaking to them about what is working for them right now, and what they see working in 2023, here are 11 ideas you can use for growing your British brand in 2023.Discover:02:31 Why being a small business means you're in a great[...]

Meet Siwan Oldham, the founder of ByBiology, a business that is giving to scientific research by creating the most beautiful luxury silk scarves. Siwan talks about how her business idea came about, the reason she decided to manufacturer in the UK, and her journey so far in building the brand. Discover:03:59 What Siwan's background is[...]

Sarah Turner is the founder of Little Beau Sheep, a brand that celebrates the best of British wool through a unique range of hand-made laundry and body care products.Flying the flag for British wool, the Yorkshire-based entrepreneur came up with the idea of eco-friendly laundry balls to help families save money on washing. In this[...]

How do you attract the right peoplt to your brand, and keep them coming back for more?In this excerpt from one of the sessions at the Make it British Virtual Forum, you'll hear the ways in which three successful business founders are marketing their brands - and some of the tips they share may surprise[...]

There are around 4,000 manufacturers based in Greater London, making everything from bicycles, ballet shoes, military uniforms, neon signs, umbrellas, mannequins and paint. Photographer Carmel King and factory owner Mark Brearley have produced a stunning book showcasing 50 of the best manufacturers in London. In this interview I talk to them about London’s rich and[...]

When it comes to manufacturing a product, planning is critical! In this episode, I cover exactly what you need to have prepared before going ahead with your production.You’ll also find out what a critical path is, why you need one and most importantly, how to keep it updated.Discover:01:27 Why you need to plan your production03:46[...]

In this episode, I chat with Oscar Boatfield, who is one of the co-founders of bags and accessory brand BearMade who make all of their bags in the UK. If ever there was a great example of a business doing the right thing by both the planet and its customers, then BearMade is definitely it.Discover:02:27[...]

This episode answers some of your most commonly asked questions about pricing. Discover:02:12 What markup do retailers add?08:19 Should you raise your prices if the cost of your fabric and manufacturing has increased?13:06 Should you lower your prices if your customers only buy from you when you have a sale on?17:36 How do you set your[...]

In this episode, I chat with childrenswear designer Dawn Clarke, who is a member of Make It British and a part of our British Brand Accelerator programme.Dawn tells us all about her journey going from making everything in-house and bespoke, to creating ready-to-wear pieces with a UK manufacturer.Discover:04:03 Why Dawn made the switch from offering[...]

How can you sell a UK-made product, or any high end product, at a time when people may be more cautious about spending their money due to rising inflation and rising bills?Firstly, don't panic! I've got 5 tips to help you stay on track with your marketing and mindset during these uncertain times.Discover:02:06 Why you[...]

UK-made goods have huge value both at home and abroad. Are you doing enough to shout about your own British-made brand? I'll be sharing my 7 foolproof tips you can action right now to sell your UK-made goods. Discover: 03:01 Who will benefit from these tips and why there are no Union Jacks04:13 Why now is[...]

Want to know how to create a loyal following and keep happy customers coming back for more?Kate Barker (Lime Tree Design), Sue Longmore (Maude and Fox) and Linda de Ruiter (The Slow Wardrobe) share the customer service secrets that have grown their product businesses. Discover:04:22 How each of the businesses found out who their ideal[...]

Is it possible to launch a brand with just a few hundred pounds? We surveyed our Make it British members and they gave us the insights into how much it cost them to start-up a brand that is made in the UK, and what they spent their money on.This episode will be really useful for you[...]

Joining me this week is Veronica Galbraith from fun, colourful homewares brand Republic of Happy. Originally from Colombia and now living permanently in Cornwall, Veronica is a graphic designer turned surface pattern designer. She tells me all about how she deals with perfectionism and the things she would have done differently when launching her printed[...]

Do you want to manufacture in the UK but factories keep giving your efforts the silent treatment? This one's for you. In this episode, I share five actionable tips for things that you can do before you start to reach out to a manufacturer in the UK to find your perfect manufacturing partner. Discover:03:30 The[...]

Find out about an exciting recycled cashmere collaboration between three UK businesses.Dr. John Parkinson from iinouiio, Graham Holbrook from Turtle Doves, and Emma Mathews from Socko, share how the project came about, the importance of making in the UK and the possibilities of UK-made regenerated yarns in the future. Discover:04:41 How the collaboration came about[...]

Summer is a time for holidays - not just for you, but also for your manufacturer and suppliers.The Factory Fortnight - a time when manufacturers traditionally shuttered their doors for a couple of weeks - may be less common in the 21st century, but it is still something to prepare for.In this episode I talk[...]

This episode is dedicated to those of you that put sending an email to your mailing list at the bottom of your to-do list! Discover: 02:25 Why email marketing is more important than social media marketing04:24 How to make sure your email content is engaging so that people don’t unsubscribe08:21 What to do if you think you[...]

When you get a product manufactured, most of the time everything will go as planned. But what about the odd occasion when it doesn't? It's always better to have thought about what could go wrong in advance, and make sure that you have a plan in place if it does. That's when a manufacturing agreement can[...]

We're back! After a longer than planned hiatus, the Make it British Podcast has returned. And we'll be back to our regular Friday episodes. This week I'm discussing what went wrong with the recent rebuild of the Make it British website, and how you can make sure that it doesn't happen to you!Discover:01:09 Why it's[...]

We're taking a break from new podcast episodes for a while. Back soon!Stay Connected: Subscribe to the Make it British NewsletterFollow on InstagramConnect with Kate on LinkedinBritish Brand Accelerator

In this episode, recorded as an Instagram Live on Made in UK Day, I chat to two British makers:Joseph Azagury, a high-end women's footwear designer with his own atelier in Wimbledon, LondonNelson and Jenny Were from leather goods brand Nelson Were.We chat about how the both of them learned their craft and why it's so[...]

Linda De Ruiter is the founder of sustainable womenswear brand, The Slow Wardrobe. In this episode, we talk about Linda's business, The Slow Wardrobe, how she dresses women to feel more confident, and why she's chosen YouTube as the main marketing channel to drive sales for her business.If you find it difficult to get in front[...]

If you have a limited budget to spend on product development and stock, the worst thing you can do is pick the wrong manufacturing partner.Here's how to make sure that you don't.  Discover:06:00 The expensive mistakes brands make when it comes to choosing the wrong manufacturer.07:03 The potential pitfalls the can happen when looking for a[...]

In this episode, recorded as an Instagram Live on Made in UK Day, I chat to three UK manufacturers:Karen and Neville Clokey from NC Lancaster, who make cushions in LancashireSteff McGrath from Something Wicked, a UK-made lingerie brand and manufacturer.Alison Pottie from Wonky Woolies, a knitted accessory manufacturer in Scotland.We chat about why local manufacturing[...]

Make sure that manufacturers are getting back to your emails by avoiding these four common errors. Discover:03:08 The amount of emails that manufacturers are getting and why you need to stand out.04:23 The four reasons why emails to manufacturers don't get answered.07:13 The one topic you should NEVER start you email with.08:16 What you should do[...]

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In this episode, I chat with Paul Brown, founder of Wolf in Sheep's Clothing, a UK-made brand based in Suffolk. Paul founded his clothing business back in 2012, knowing nothing about clothing manufacturing, butwent on to set up his own micro-factory.He shares how much it cost him to get his micro-factory up and running, and[...]

Rosie Macpherson is the founder of Where’s Winnie, a luxury dog travel brand.Rosie came to me when she had an idea to develop an innovative new type of dog car seat. One where a small dog can travel in style and comfort, but which also offered safety and security. In this episode, Rosie talks us[...]

Julie Deane CBE is the founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company, which manufactures all its bags in the UK. In this episode, recorded as an Instagram Live on Made in UK Day, I chat to Julie about why the Cambridge Satchels are made in the UK, and how important it is to retain craftsmanship here[...]

Do you want to wholesale your UK-made brand, but don't know where to start?Is this episode we look at some of the potential pitfalls, and I give you my top 8 tips for success when selling to retail buyers. Discover: 02:22 Is wholesale right for your business?04:04 The 8 tips for selling to retail buyers08:22 Why doing[...]

The results of our Made in UK survey are in!Find out what consumers really think about buying UK-made goods.  Read the full survey results here: https://makeitbritish.co.uk/buying-british/madeinuk-survey-2022/ Stay in TouchBritish Brand Accelerator - Find out how you can work with me to build your British-made brandMake it British websiteJoin Make it British - become a member of our community and promote your[...]

There are generally 3 main reasons why sales might not be going as expected. But don't panic!As well as discussing what those 3 reasons for a sales slump might be, in this episode I also give tips on what you can do if sales aren't going to planDiscover: 03:32 The reasons why your sales might not[...]

In this episode, I'm chatting with Graham Holbrook from Turtle Doves, a company that recycles cashmere jumpers into brand new products, including their signature fingerless gloves, which sell over 200,000 pairs a year.Graham talks about how Turtle Doves manage teams of outworkers in the UK to make their products. And we also discuss an exciting new[...]

In this episode, I invite you to join us for our second Made in UK Day on 9th March 2022.Following the success of the inaugural Made in UK Day in 2021, the campaign is back this year to raise awareness of the need to buy more locally made products and to showcase all the amazing[...]

The price of everything is going up at the moment - from fuel prices and taxes, to raw materials and shipping. But what does this mean for you if you have a business that makes in the UK? In this episode, you'll hear thoughts from our Make it British members, both brands selling UK-made products[...]

Kitty Bruce-Gardyne is the founder of Scottish Textiles Showcase. Originally set up to give people special guided tours around the textile mills in Scotland, Scottish Textile Showcase is now a retail destination in Edinburgh.The shop represents some of Scotland's best textile businesses and Kitty tells the story of why she so passionately supports the Scottish textile[...]

One of the biggest mistakes that I see people making when they want to get a product made in the UK is that they think the first step that they need to take is to contact a manufacturer.But this is actually one of the last things that you want to do.In this episode I run[...]

In this episode, I chat with Chris Kyriacou, founder of activewear brand Soma Sportswear. Chris contacted me in 2019, looking for help to find manufacturers to make his very unique athleisurewear. In this episode, Chris talks through the process of going from idea to fully-fledged product and how we worked together to find the right[...]

One of the biggest problems that many fashion firms face is how they can dispose of their deadstock fabric.At the same time, designers often have issues with sourcing materials in small quantities. In this episode, we meet Deborah Lyons and Piarvé Wetshi, the co-founders of Last Yarn, an online fabric marketplace that solves one of[...]

If you have a business making or selling products that are made in the UK, what are the biggest trends that will impact you in 2022?Whilst the last 2 years have shown us that it is almost impossible to predict the unpredictable, having worked with hundreds of small businesses that make in the UK over[...]

In this episode I reflect on how much things have changed over the past couple of years for us at Make it British, as I am sure they have for you. I also look at which of the 61 episodes of the podcast I've recorded this year were my favourites, and why. Discover: 01:54 How Make it[...]

Shanna Bent is the founder of the conscious fashion brand Maison Bent.Having previously worked with Alexander McQueen, Roland Mouret, Agent Provocateur, in 2019 Shanna set up her own luxury label, with a determination to bust the myth that black designers just do streetwear.She’s had a lot of success in a short space of time, from[...]

When you have a product-based business and you're working with manufacturers, it's important to have a plan in place.There's no better time to do this than at the start of a new year.In this episode I give you tips on how to plan for 2022 and why you need to when you're working with manufacturers![...]

Charlotte Raffo is the founder of The Monkey Puzzle Tree, a homeware business that creates award-winning, artist designed fabrics and wallpapers with a twist and a conscience.Working with artists and designers to produce the most beautiful collection of products, The Monkey Puzzle Tree makes everything within a hundred mile radius of Leeds.The business has also[...]

Of all the social media platforms that small businesses use to promote their business, Instagram seems to be the one that evokes the biggest love/hate reaction. Especially if you’re a creative person, or run a product-based business.You might be constantly bombarded by a stream of reels and videos from other small businesses who seem much[...]

Today we are going on a trip to Leicester to meet the family behind textile firm Shahtex.The guys at Shahtex are experts in circular knitting. Up until recently, they have been knitting fabrics for big online retailers.⁣Shahtex have now invested in four state-of-the-art circular knitting machines, the first of their kind in the UK. ⁣These[...]

Lucy Jones was the founder of a prestigious, luxury lingerie brand back in the 1980s.Her distinctive silk lingerie was stocked in retailers such as Harvey Nichols and Rigby & Peller.After two decades working in education, Lucy decided to relaunch her lingerie brand, making the entire collection herself and at a small atelier in the UK.In[...]

Join me on a trip to Leicester to meet Said Saleh and Keith Cummings from Mars Knitwear. Based in Wigston, Leicestershire, the chaps at Mars have been making knitwear for over 30 years. Having been manufacturing thousands of pieces of acrylic knitwear for the big store groups, Mars has now gone back to creating smaller[...]

Monika Young is the founder and creative director of Monika the Label - a sustainable fashion brand inspired by 70s California and made in the UK.In this episode, Monika tells the story of how she set up and her brand, and what actions she took when she discovered her original designs and prints being copied[...]

What are some of the things that I see successful British-made brands do consistently?In the first episode of series 4 of the Make it British podcast I look at what makes for a great British-made brand. Discover: 04:11 Why having a great story to tell can help customers relate to your business06:17 How doing one thing brilliantly[...]

The new series of the Make it British Podcast is coming very, very soon! Make sure you subscribe so you don't miss it. As well as the usual advice and tips for making in the UK, along with interviews with some of my favourite people that manufacture products in Britain, we are doing something a[...]

I've interviewed some fantastic guests over the past 3 series of the Make it British podcast. To celebrate the milestone which is 200 episodes, I'm bringing you a summary from 21 of the Make it British members that I have interviewed over the last few years.All of them have built great UK-made businesses and have some[...]

Starting any business can be tough - especially one that involves making products! Whether you are just about start a brand, or you've already launched and it's not quite going to plan, here are 11 tips that will help ensure success.Discover:Why you should start with why [01:43]One of the first things you need to think[...]

Probably one of the questions that I get asked more than any other is 'how long will it take me to launch a new product if I make it in the UK?' The short answer is - 'how long is a piece of string!' The long answer is more complex, and involves taking into account several[...]

London-based designer Maria Grachvogel is renowned for her clever use of cutting to flatter the female figure. In this interview, Maria talks about why she has chosen to use more UK manufacturers for her collection, and how changing her business model has helped her to build closer relationships with her clients. She also discusses the importance of[...]

How do you follow up with a manufacturer (and have a better chance of a response)? In this episode I give you some great tips on how to make sure that you get a response back from a manufacturer ever time.This episode will be particularly useful for anyone who wants to follow up with someone[...]

One of our epidode's from the very first series that is well worth a revisit is this one with Andy Ogden at English Fine Cottons. Greater Manchester was once known as cottonopolis because it was the home to the world’s cotton yarn and fabric production during the industrial revolution.At the turn of the Twentieth Century,[...]

Unfortunately, mistakes can and do, happen in manufacturing, but there are ways to avoid them. In this episode, we look at the main reasons that manufacturing a product usually goes wrong, how to resolve the situation if it does and how to make sure that it doesn’t happen again.Discover:What are the common problems that can[...]

In this episode, I chat to Ian Maclean, managing director of John Smedley – the oldest operating factory in the world. John Smedley is one of the finest knitwear manufacturers in the world. The company was established 235 years ago, at the start of the Industrial Revolution, and they still operate out of the same factory in[...]

I think visiting a factory is essential for anyone that is developing a new product. One of the benefits of making in the UK is that factory visiting is far easier than if you are making your products overseas. In this episode, I run through my 7 reasons why you should be visiting a factory[...]

Julie Deane CBE, set up the Cambridge Satchel Company in 2008 with £600 and went on to make it a global, multi-million-pound business.But behind the success story, there was a lot of hard work, including having to set up her own factory in Leicestershire almost overnight.In this interview, she tells the story behind the brand[...]

Some people think manufacturers should do any initial work for no charge in order to pitch for your business. But that’s often not the case.In this episode, I explain why many UK manufacturers charge for sampling – and how that can be a good thing.Discover:The incorrect assumptions people may have about why UK manufacturers don't[...]

Labour Behind the Label is a workers rights organisation that fights for living wages for garment workers. They have produced a report about the unethical working practices of factories in Leicester making for Boohoo. The industry has often called into question how Boohoo can sell dresses for £4 and still make them ethically in the UK,[...]

In this episode, I look back over the first 100 episodes of this show to find out what makes British-made businesses great. There are many common themes running through the last 100 episodes and that I’ve heard again and again from those I’ve interviewed.Here are the 10 things that make British-made businesses great:UK manufacturers are[...]

Today I’m chatting to Lindsey James, who is the founder of womenswear brand Violet Flamingo.Lindsey was making and selling bespoke clothing for her clients from her studio before covid hit. Finding herself with no way to reach customers during lockdown, she started to do regular Facebook live calls from her studio, talking to her customers[...]

Just a quick one today, to say that I'm taking a break from recording new episodes after next week.In the meantime, I have selected 10 of the best episodes from the archive for your enjoyment, which will be episodes no.s 188 - 197I'll be back on 20th August (not 13th as I said on the[...]

Rita Britton is somewhat of a fashion legend. For 50 years she ran an independent fashion store in Barnsley, Yorkshire called Polyanna, which was an International hub for luxury fashion stocked with Rita's unique style.When Polyanna closed in 2014, Rita focused on developing her own brand, Nomad, made in the UK with fabrics sourced from Yorkshire[...]

If you want to develop a range of products but have little manufacturing experience you might be thinking of employing the services of a production consultant.In this episode, we’re going to look out what services a production consultant might offer, and why you might not want to use one if you want to manufacture in[...]

Brant Richards is one of the founders of HebTroCo.5 years ago, he and his business partner Ed had an idea in the pub - to start making trousers in Hebden Bridge, a town in Yorkshire that was once renowned for its trouser making.They launched the business on Kickstarter, knowing nothing about making trousers, and within[...]

Do you want a manufacturer in the UK? On today's episode I discuss the reasons why searching in Google for a manufacturer to make your products could be a very costly mistake to make.Discover:What can happen if you select a manufacturer using a Google search 1:29Examples of what you really find on page one of[...]

Johnstons of Elgin is the largest textile manufacturer in the UK. The 223-year-old company employs over 1,000 people and was the first to bring cashmere weaving to Scotland.Simon Cotton, the chief executive of Johnstons, describes himself as working for the most exciting company in the UK. Listen to find out how he plans to make[...]

This episode is a lesson to anyone that wants to make in the UK but is struggling to make their pricing work.YES, it is possible to have a thriving and sustainable brand that is made in the UK and be profitable.You just need to change the way you look at things.Discover: Why trying to find a[...]

Rebecca Mills has a background in buying and retail for some big-name brands, yet when it came to running her own business she found it very different.In this episode, she talks about how different it is running her own brand and some of the common mistakes that it is easy to make when you love[...]

I get contacted all the time by people looking for ‘more affordable’ UK manufacturers. They’re not making any money in their business and they believe it’s all the manufacturer’s fault because their prices are too high. But when I dig a little deeper, often I find that there are other parts of the business that need[...]

Debbie McKeegan has over 30 years experience in textile printing - specifically digital printing. She is the founder of TexIntel, a platform that provides fantastic knowledge and advice to the digital print industry and also the host of the Texintel podcast.In this episode Debbie answers all your burning questions about digital printing.So if you find[...]

There are really four different scenarios in which it's probably better to manufacture overseas than in the UK.In this episode, I run through what those four different cases are. Discover: How the amount of time that it takes to make something can play a big part in deciding whether it should be made here 01:41Which skills[...]

James Stewart is an experienced lean practitioner who has worked with Burberry and Fashion Enter to help streamline their manufacturing process.‘Lean’ is a method for producing products in smaller batches, closer to the customer, rather than making zillions of products overseas that no one wants to buy.Anyone that manufactures sustainably and locally in the UK,[...]

If your products aren’t selling - don’t get disheartened! There can be many reasons why products don’t sell, but there are also lots of things you can do to make sure they have the best chance of success.So before you think about slashing your prices, take a listen to this episode.Discover:The things you can do[...]

In an industry that is dominated by big brands, how can you stand out from the crowd and launch something new?In this episode, I chat to Hannah Lovegrove, co-founder of Lovegrove essentials, about what it takes to launch an organics skincare brand that is made in the UK.Hannah started her award-winning business in 2015 with[...]

What are some of the pros and cons of selling your products on an online marketplace?And how do you know which ones you should be on?Along with the well-established online marketplaces such as Etsy and Not on the High Street, there are lots of new ones springing up.Many of these specialise in certain niches, including[...]

Rich and Linda make stunning, digitally printed swimwear under the label Usual Objections. They manufacture all of their products from a micro-factory in their family home in Hackney, which they also share with 2 children and a blind pug!In this episode, they tell me about what made them decide to manufacture everything themselves, having tried[...]

When it comes to working out your selling prices, one of the biggest mistakes people make is getting their margin and mark-up all mixed up!It’s easily done as the two words are pretty similar. But it can be a costly mistake to make if you get it wrong.In this episode, I explain what the difference[...]

On today’s episode, we’re being joined by make-up artist Phyllis Cohen, who is also the founder of a business called Face Lace.Phyllis started her career as a make-up artist in the ‘80s during the New Romantic era when her illustrative make-up appeared in magazines such as i-D.She’s also worked her make-up magic on everyone from[...]

There are a lot of different costs involved in launching a brand. But in this episode, I break it down into four main segments: prototyping; stock; marketing and admin.I also advise on what the typical amount is that new businesses spend in getting their brand off the ground, and smart ways that you can reduce[...]

Rowena Howie’s Revival Retro store in central London is a destination shop for fans of her flattering dresses and stylish accessories.In this episode we chat about how Rowena has pivoted her business to online whilst the shop has been closed; how the government could help independent retailers; and how she puts the customer at the[...]

Choosing a manufacturer is one of the most important decisions you can make in the development of your products, so it’s important to find the right one.When you are assessing whether a manufacturer is a good fit for you there are certain questions that you should ask them. Some of these questions you may want[...]

Today I’m chatting to UK garment manufacturer Jenny Holloway who I first featured on this show on episode 21 back in January 2019.Jenny runs Fashion Enter, a social enterprise that makes 1,000s of garments every week in their North London factory. Fashion Enter also runs a training academy teaching people the essential skills needed to work[...]

When you go to visit any manufacturer for the first time it’s your opportunity to find out exactly how they operate.The more factories you visit the more you come to learn what makes a good fit for you and your business.But there are several key aspects to a well-run factory that you can look out[...]

Data and digital are drastically changing how we all shop and the way that products are made.In this conversation recorded at Make it British Live! Online, a panel of digital experts from within the fashion industry discuss the importance of data for businesses both large and small, and how it can initiate much more personalised[...]

A range plan is an essential tool for any product business. Without it you are setting yourself up for failure.Yet many of the small businesses that I speak to that are developing products say they don’t have a range plan. Or they don’t even know what it is!So in this episode, I explain what a[...]

John Elliott MBE founded Ebac nearly 50 years ago. The company has also sold 1.5 million dehumidifiers over the years and is the only manufacturer of washing machines in the UK.John is very passionate about UK manufacturing and his thoughts on the UK Government, the supermarkets and Which? make for entertaining listening. Discover: How John left school[...]

If you want to launch a clothing label should you get your first samples made by a seamstress or should you go straight to working with a factory?In this episode, I cover the pros and cons of both so that you can make the decision for yourself as to which you think is best for[...]

How Rachel Bowditch discovered a gap in the market and turned it into a thriving business with loyal fans.Alice Bow became an overnight sensation when it was reported that the Duchess of Cambridge was a big fan.Rachel discusses how she rapidly grew her business overnight by bringing her manufacturing in house. She also has some great[...]

Does the phrase critical path fill you with dread? Or make you jump for joy?When it comes to manufacturing a product a critical path is...critical!In this episode, I cover exactly what a critical path is and when and why you need one.You’ll also find out how to create one, and most importantly, keep it updated.Discover:What[...]

How can you find deadstock materials for your brand? In this episode, Dessy from Fashion Insiders & Co and I discuss some of the challenges of starting a fashion brand, including one of the biggest challenges of all, which is how to find raw materials in small quantities. Dessy has recently launched a platform call My Factori[...]

If you're struggling to find a UK manufacturer there's usually one of five reasons why you can't find one.In this episode, I explain what those five situations are. And give you suggestions for how to have more success in finding your ideal manufacturing partner.Discover:Why more people are looking for UK manufacturers now 00:45Questions I ask[...]

Lee Akpareva is a fashion designer, tailor and technology consultant. He's also creative director of Never Fade, a fashion store and creative space on Old Compton Street in London.We chat about collaborations within the fashion industry, helping new designers get a head start, and how blockchain and technology are impacting the fashion industry and manufacturing.Discover:About Lee[...]

Should you use Made in UK or Made in Britain? And what's the difference?A few people have asked why we chose to call the awareness campaign Made in UK Day and not Made in Britain Day.United Kingdon, Great Britain, The British Isles...it can be very confusing trying to get your head around all the different[...]

What does it mean to be a UK leather bag business in 2021?Today I’m chatting with Gillian Tusting from English heritage leathergoods brand Tusting.Gillian shares the story of how the family business, founded in 1875, evolved from a small tannery to a thriving part of the UK's leathergoods industry.She describes the craftsmanship that goes into[...]

If you manufacture a product in the UK, selling your product for too low a price could be detrimental to your brand.And putting your prices up could actually increase your sales!If you prices are too low, especially if you make in the UK, your customers may think there is something wrong.This applies not just for[...]

Welcome to series 3 of the Make it British podcast!On the 10th anniversary of the founding of Make it British I take a look back at some of my milestones over the last decade.How have perceptions of UK manufacturing changed in that time?To celebrate 10 years of Make it British we have launched Made in[...]

Made in UK Day is taking place on 9 March 2021. In this episode, I explain why I've started an awareness day for UK makers, and how you can get involved!Follow #madeinukday on social media to keep up to date with the campaign.Find out more at madeinukday.co.uk

What will 2021 hold for businesses that make in the UK?In the last episode of 2020, and the last of series two, I look at some of the trends that I think will impact businesses that make in the UK in the coming 12 months.Listen to this episode to hear my predictions - and let[...]

Today's episode is part one in a two part series where I'll be looking back on our year in 2020 and then looking forward to 2021.There is no doubt that 2020 has brought its share of challenges for everyone, but I am not going to dwell too much on the negative today. Instead, I take[...]

UK-made goods have huge value both at home and abroad. If you have a UK-made brand are you doing enough to shout about it?In this episode, I share my 7 foolproof tips you can action right now to shine a light on the products that you make.Discover:What you can do to make your brand stand[...]

Catherine Erdly is the founder of The Resilient Retail Club. She has a background in retail as a merchandiser for some of the best-known High Street retailers but now works exclusively with independent retailers and small businesses.In this episode, we discuss what went wrong at Debenhams and Arcadia, how the buying model of the big[...]

This is a recording of an Instagram live that I did on the last Friday in November. A day often referred to in the retail calendar as Black Friday.I discussed why the heavy discounting from many stores at this time of year are not really deals at all, and why many UK-made brands don't do[...]

How do UK manufacturers and brands compete with huge overseas factories and the likes of Black Friday discounting?In this episode, I revisit an interview I did back in 2018 which is still very relevant today.It's a ‘no holds barred’ interview with James Eden, owner of Private White V.C. who tells me how he’s turned a[...]

This week we've been spending time updating the About page on the Make it British website. It's still not finished yet so please don't look at the old one!It caused me to revisit the first-ever episode of this podcast when I talked about my background and why I set up Make it British.So I'm sharing[...]

Based in Cornwall in the South West of England, Celtic & Co is the original sheepskin boot company.Kath Whitworth and her husband Nick bought the business 30 years ago and trademarked the UGG boot in the UK.In this episode, Kath tells the story of how the brand has evolved over the last three decades.Discover:The history[...]

Julie Deane OBE, set up the Cambridge Satchel Company in 2008 with £600 and went on to make it a global, multi-million pound business. But behind the success story, there was a lot of hard work, including having to set up her own factory in Leicestershire almost overnight. In this interview, she tells the story[...]

Emma Mathews is the founder of sustainable sock brand Socko and the author of 'How to quit fast fashion; 100 expert tips for a sustainable wardrobe' In this episode, she talks about how she went from a career in advertising to launching a sock business, and why we should all learn the lost art of[...]

Christopher Nieper OBE is the managing director of David Nieper, a womenswear business in Alfreton in Derbyshire. The firm was set up by Christopher's parents sixty years ago and is now one of the most vertical textile operations in the UK. Christopher recently invested in state-of-the-art digital printing equipment so that the factory can print it's[...]

Rachel Attwood is the founder of luxury childrenswear brand Britannical, and a long-standing member of Make it British. The business started life making outwear for babies and was originally called The Great British Baby Company. The brand is known for its coats, which are now made for children up to 12 years old, and an adults[...]

Elizabeth Stiles is a straight-talking fashion buyer turned small business consultant.She helps fashion brands with their marketing, manufacturing and mindset, and has worked with clients such as Lucy & Yak and Olivia Rose.Discover: How to find your USPWhy Elizabeth won't buy from AmazonHow not to commit your life savings to stock when you launch a businessWhy[...]

The second in our series of live panel discussions in association with Kornit Digital, manufacturers of advanced digital printing solutions.‘Sketchpad to Shopping Bag: The Future of Fashion Production and Fulfilment’ continues the important debate around the future of the UK textile industry.I'm joined by panellists from education, design, manufacturing and retail, as well as the[...]

Davinder Madaher has been a textile and print designer in the fashion and homeware industry for 30 years.In this episode, he talks about his career - from working in print studios in New York to high street retailers in the UK.Davinder clearly loves what he does, and this enthusiasm and passion for the industry clearly[...]

Putnams is an award-winning homeware manufacturer based in Plymouth, Devon.The business was started over 40 years ago by Hedley Putnams' parents, and he and his sister Bubbles now run the business.Hedley had no intention of working in the family business but found that he loved working in manufacturing and employing people locally.Discover:Why you should listen[...]

Are you currently making your product overseas but thinking about bringing it back to the UK?The pandemic has caused ongoing supply chain disruption and many businesses are now looking to make locally.In this episode, I look at what some of the pros and cons are of moving your manufacturing closer to home.I also give some[...]

How do you feel about virtual trade shows?2020 has certainly changed the way the whole world works and does business, but if you are in the business of developing or sourcing products, how does that look for you?  I can’t see that long haul buying trips will be happening in the way they used to. Far[...]

Do you find Made in the UK labelling confusing? Do you have a product and want to find out whether you can label it as 'Made in the UK?' In this recording of a live masterclass I set the record straight on what can and can't be labelled as made in the UK. You’ll find[...]

In this episode, I introduce you to Jack Scott, the co-founder of Dash Water, a British brand with great provenance.Dash water uses only misshapen fruit and veg to flavour its water - produce that would otherwise go to waste because it's not 'perfect' enough for the supermarkets.Jack talks about how he set up a successful[...]

What is the true cost of that cheap coat that you buy on the high street?Whilst the price of clothing has gone down over the last sixty years, so has the quality. If you calculate the cost per wear of a cheap coat versus a quality, UK-made one you may be very surprised at what great[...]

Wouldn’t it be great if the UK textile industry could create less waste, increase sales and become more profitable? Local manufacturing is an increasing focus for brands and designers looking for a fast turnaround on products that don’t leave a large carbon footprint.Textile manufacturers now have the opportunity to capitalise on this by creating ‘just in[...]

Samantha Brooke is a knitwear designer who has worked in Italy for Alberta Ferretti, and in China for a mass-produced knitwear brand.She created her own micro knitting factory in rural Nottinghamshire three years ago producing personalised accessories and knitted dog products.Samantha is a great example of a small brand that is rapidly growing her business[...]

The Trunki needs little introduction; since its invention in 2006 over 4 million of the animal-shaped ride-on suitcases have been sold and it has become a design classic.What many people don't know is that the majority of the Trunkis have been made in the UK since 2012.Rob Law MBE is the founder of Trunki. He was[...]

Amy Fettis is the founder of fashion-led sportswear brand AIM Athleisure. When she first launched the brand she made all of the mistakes that many new businesses make - including developing a collection that was far too big, which killed her cashflow.She now uses the lessons she learnt from her own business to help others.[...]

Johnstons of Elgin is the largest textile manufacturer in the UK. The 223 year old company employs over 1,000 people and was the first to bring cashmere weaving to Scotland.Simon Cotton is the chief executive of Johnstons, and in this interview these are some of the points we cover:The history of Scottish cashmereHow the business[...]

Labour Behind the Label is a workers rights organisation that fights for living wages for garment workers. They have produced a report about the unethical working practices of factories in Leicester making for Boohoo. The industry has often called into question how Boohoo can sell dresses for £4 and still make them ethically in the[...]

Whether to wholesale is one of the biggest decisions that brands have to make, and it is often much more of a difficult decision for businesses that make in the UK as their cost price is often higher. Wholesale was the route that traditionally most brands went down if they wanted to build their profile quickly.[...]

It’s back to business this week for many retailers - but how will shopping change post-lockdown? And what effect will this have on businesses that manufacture locally?Whilst some people are rushing out hoping to secure a bargain on the seasonal stock that retailers are trying to shift before the summer ends, many others will be[...]

London-based designer Maria Grachvogel is renowned for her clever use of cutting to flatter the female figure. In this interview Maria talks about why she has chosen to use more UK manufacturers for her collection, and how changing her business model has helped her to build closer relationships with her clients.She also discusses the importance of[...]

We've had two pieces of good news this week so I thought I'd share them with you in this episode.The first is that the government has now officially placed orders with UK manufacturers for millions of pieces of PPE.And the second is that the Fashion Roundtable's campaign to get garment and textile roles onto the[...]

Emma Willis founded her shirt making business in 1989. She has had a shop on London's famous Jermyn Street for over twenty years and all of her bespoke and ready to wear shirts are made in England.The Emma Willis Factory in Gloucestershire has a team of dedicated seamstresses and cutters and she runs a successful apprenticeship[...]

Buying habits are changing and there is definitely a renewed interest in buying made in the UK products.At Make it British we've seen a 200% increase in enquiries from people looking for things that are made in Britain.In this episode I look at the reasons why demand has increased, how made in the UK brands[...]

David Williams has been supplying the UK knitwear industry his entire career.He is the UK agent for Stoll knitting machines and the founder of the Knit Design Centre - a studio in Leicester where designers can develop their ideas and samples with experienced knitwear technicians.During the Covid 19 pandemic he has worked with a local[...]

During the Covid_19 crisis many UK manufacturers have adapted their businesses to manufacture PPE.Specialised Canvas, based in Chesterfield, are one of the companies that very quickly pivoted their business to help alleviate the shortage of available protective equipment.In this episode, Paul Noble, MD of Specialised Canvas, explains how the firm has risen to the challenge[...]

In episode 114 I asked 'PPE - can we make it in the UK?' and on today's episode I thought it would be good to update you.It has been 5 weeks since the Government put a call out for businesses to help manufacturer PPE. Since then hundreds of UK manufacturers have filled in the form[...]

In this week's episode I talk to Lucy Blackley who founded technology company BombyxPLM to help fashion business owners manage their product development.A Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system helps your business have total visibility over the development of your brand from design through to production.Traditionally these software systems are expensive, but Lucy wanted to make[...]

Until a few weeks ago most people probably had no idea what PPE stood for. But during the Covid_19 outbreak PPE has regularly been in the news because Personal Protective Equipment can mean the difference between staying fit and well or catching the deadly coronavirus. In this episode I look at why there is such a[...]

Harris Tweed cloth is renowned the world over. Woven entirely in the Outer Hebrides, using wool from the local sheep, you could say it was the ultimate sustainable fabric. In this episode Ruth Masson, Marketing Manager at Harris Tweed Hebrides, tells us all about the history of the cloth and what makes it so special.[...]

The number one concern for all manufacturers right now is how they are going to pay their staff. They need help to support the jobs of their workers and retain their skills otherwise they may be gone for ever. We have so few manufacturers that we really can’t afford to lose any more.What is left[...]

This episode was published on the day our Make it British Live! trade show was due to fling its doors open to 1,000s of visitors.Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 outbreak we have had to postpone the live show until further notice.But never has there been a more important time to manufacture locally and support brands[...]

The coronavirus (Covid-19) is having a devastating impact on businesses all over the world. One of the industries likely to be hardest hit is manufacturing, because so many raw materials cross borders. In this episode I look at we can learn from how the coronavirus is impacting supply chains. Could it cause drastic changes in the[...]

On today's episode we're covering a topic that I know bothers a lot of you - how can you protect your designs from being copied. Dids MacDonald OBE has dedicated the last 20 years of her career in helping designers to protect their design ideas.Discover in this episode:What the myths are around protecting your design[...]

In this episode I interview Steff McGrath, managing partner at lingerie brand Something Wicked.The collection is entirely made in the UK by Steff's team in Leeds, giving the brand the flexibility to make everything to order.She is now helping other brands to make luxury lingerie in Britain too.More about Something WickedStay in TouchBritish Brand Accelerator - Find[...]

Vanners is one of the oldest textile businesses in the UK.They've been weaving silk since 1740, and moved their weaving business from London to Suffolk in the late 18th Century.In this interview I speak to Laura Gore, Vanners managing director, about what makes their business such a special UK manufacturer.Shownotes at www.makeitbritish.co.uk/107 More VannersStay in TouchBritish[...]

Nick Morley is the MD of Faering, an innovative, UK manufacturer that prints digitally onto wool and other natural fibres.Using the latest technology and renewable energy they can print direct to garments on-demand and with low minimum order quantities.In this interview Nick talks about how Faering uses the T-shirt printing model to minimise stock by[...]

Pantherella was founded in 1937 and has been making high quality, lightweight socks in Leicester ever since.I took a trip to the Pantherella factory to meet the current MD, Justin Hall and to find out about how the socks are made.Shownotes with videos and images from my factory tour can be found at www.makeitbritish.co.uk/105More PantherellaStay[...]

Tamara Cincik has over 20 years experience in the fashion industry and is the founder of Fashion Roundtable, the secretariat for The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Textiles and Fashion.Fashion Roundtable supports the diverse voices of the fashion industry, and provides a much needed link between fashion, business, consumers and policy leaders.In this episode[...]

What does a manufacturer include - and NOT include - in a cost price?In this episode I breakdown what you can expect a manufacturer to take into account when they quote you a price.And how to make sure that there a no nasty surprises when you get your final bill.Stay in TouchBritish Brand Accelerator - Find out[...]

David Collinge runs the the Burnley-based weaving business John Spencer Textiles.He is the sixth generation owner of the mill which, was originally founded by his great great great grandfather 150 years ago.I love David’s story because it is one of survival. It epitomises why some UK manufacturers have remained and flourished whilst many others fell[...]

What will 2020 hold for UK manufacturing?In the first episode of the year, and the new series, I look at some of the trends that I think will impact manufacturing in the coming 12 months.What's changed since this time last year?And what is the single biggest thing that will impact UK manufacturers and brands that[...]

We're back! Series 2 of the Make it British Podcast begins on Tuesday 7th January. You can expect to hear loads more tips and tricks for making in the UK, along with interview with UK manufacturers - and a few factory tours thrown in for good measure. In the meantime, if you're looking to launch[...]

Have you bought your Christmas gifts yet?Well, if you haven't, stop right there.Before you get bombarded by all the Black Friday deals, listen to this episode of the Make it British podcast and find out why buying a British made Christmas gift is more sustainable.This is a bonus Christmas episode.Series 2 of the Make it[...]

In this episode I look back over the first 100 episodes of this show to find out what makes British-made businesses great.There are many common themes running running through the last 100 episodes and that I've heard again and again from those I've interviewed.Here are the 10 things that make British-made businesses great:UK manufacturers are[...]

There is a lot of confusion about the labelling of products.Can we truly call something 'made in the UK' if the raw materials are from overseas?As the traceability of a product's supply chain is becoming increasingly important more and more people are questioning just how authentic a 'made in Britain' product can be if its[...]

Corinne Lewis-Ward is an artist and designer who is the founder of Powder Butterfly; a design studio that creates a range of British contemporary homeware gifts.Corinne was trained as a photography and has used her love of British landmarks to create a unique, and very British range of products. Living in Newcastle she started with a[...]

It's so important to get out there and meet manufacturers if you are developing a product.In this episode I explain the reasons why you should be visiting factories, especially if you are making in the UK because they are on your doorstep.Stay in TouchBritish Brand Accelerator - Find out how you can work with me to build[...]

Take a tour round a traditional East End umbrella factory with me as we visit James Ince & Sons. Richard Ince is the sixth generation of a family business which was founded 215 years ago. East London was once the centre for umbrella making in the UK due to its proximity to the City of London[...]

Lots of people try to launch a business or collection with a huge range of products. They then find they don't have enough funds to manufacture everything they set out to.They make expensive mistakes and their initial vision may never come to fruition.Or they try to find cheaper manufacturers in order to squeeze everything into[...]

How can you grow a clothing brand sustainably and ethically?In this interview I speak to the inspiring Sophie Slater from Birdsong who work with women's organisations and charities to make thoughtful clothes in inclusive sizes.50% of Birdsong profits go back to the organisations that they work with, including a women's charity in East London that[...]

From 18th October 2019 many UK-made clothing items exported to the US will face tariffs of 25%In this episode I discuss what items are affected and what this means for British brands that manufacture in the UK.Stay in TouchBritish Brand Accelerator - Find out how you can work with me to build your British-made brandMake it British[...]

England used to be one of the biggest manufacturers of shotguns in the world, but sadly, like many manufacturing industries in the UK, it has seen numbers decline.Longthorne are the only shotgun maker in the UK that manufacturer everything in house - creating bespoke guns for customers all over the world.In this episode I visit[...]

You've probably heard of greenwashing? But how about Britwashing?This episode tells you everything you need to know about what Britwashing is, and how to spot it.Sadly becoming all too common amongst brands and retailers trying to sell products for their own commercial gain under false pretences, I also call this 'fake it British'.There are several[...]

Reaching out to manufacturers and struggling to get a response?Don't be like Mr Vague, Mr Long, Mr Price and Mr Clueless - make sure that your email goes to the top of the inbox by avoiding these 4 common errors.Find out exactly what they are in this episode.Stay in TouchBritish Brand Accelerator - Find out how you[...]

Join me on a tour round Crown Northampton's footwear factoryIn this episode I chat to Chris Woodford, owner of Chancery Footwear, the factory which makes the Crown Northampton collection, and Mark Higgs, brand manager for Crown Northampton.Launched only a couple of years ago, Crown Northampton is quite different to the other shoemakers in the famous[...]

If you've got an idea for a product but you're tearing your hair out because you don't know what the next steps are, this episode is for you.You may have tried approaching manufacturers to help you and had no response, and wondered what it was that you said!Launching a new product is a bit like[...]

When Pippa Dziubinski started a business making printed bamboo baby muslins 2 years ago one of the most important things was being able to make the product in the UK.But she faced many of the same struggles that other new businesses face when trying to find a manufacturer - they just weren't that readily available.Through[...]

Are you making this one big mistake when developing a made in the UK product?On today's episode I tell you how to make sure you avoid this costly error if you're launching a brand made in the UK. It will also be helpful to those who have product-based businesses who are finding it difficult to[...]

A trip to Stoke-on-Trent this week to visit one of the last remaining potteries.I meet Andy Tooth and Jason Sims, owners of Heraldic Pottery, a company which bespoke prints fine bone china and glassware for designers and illustrators.More recently Andy & Jason also bought one of the last remaining potteries in Stoke - Duchess China,[...]

It’s very difficult to raise your prices for a product after you have launched it or communicated it to your customers.So how you can make sure that you’ve got them right from the start?Whilst the common calculation for working out a selling price might be to take the cost price and double it, or triple[...]

Isn't it disappointing when you buy something you love and it then needs replacing?Joel Chudleigh wants to solve that problem, by helping people to slow down on their purchasing. His ethos is to buy something that is made to last and enjoy it for a long time.His online retail store, Made to Last, brings together[...]

Why do two similar looking items often cost totally different prices, even in the same shop? A lot of it is to do with the cost price of the product. Yet so many different factors can affect that cost price.This episode runs through all of the different things that can make the difference to what a[...]

Join me on a journey around the Gosha London studio to find out what the life of a high-end garment manufacturer is really like.Mustafa Fuat started his manufacturing studio 23 years ago, knowing nothing about fashion OR manufacturing. He was in fact a pro footballer for Aston Villa!He’s obviously been doing something right, as he[...]

If you're purchasing something new does seeking out a product that is made in the UK offer sustainability benefits over one made overseas? There’s a lot of talk about sustainability at the moment when it comes to the products that we buy. And you can’t seem to turn without one brand or another launching something[...]

Katie Walker studied furniture at The Royal College of Art in the mid-90s and has had her own business making furniture in the UK ever since.She has three sides to her business; iconic Katie Walker Furniture pieces which sell directly to the public; made-to-order pieces sold as one-offs; and collaborations with other businesses, such as[...]

Join me on a factory tour around the Her Majesty The Queen's button maker. Established in 1655, Firmin & Sons are the oldest, privately-owned manufacturing company in the UK. At their prestigious metalworks in Birmingham they make not only buttons, but also ceremonial armour, helmets and other accoutrements. Firmin & Sons' sales manager, Tony Kelly, takes us on[...]

Billy Tannery is the first new goat leather company and tannery in the UK for over 50 years. Despite knowing nothing about leather production when they started, Jack Millington and his co-founder Rory Harker set up their micro tannery in 2016 after discovering the terrible waste of goatskins that are a bi-product of the meat industry. They use[...]

Made Here, Sold Everywhere The UK imports considerably more fashion and textiles than it exports. But the UK Fashion & Textile Association are aiming to address that. Paul Alger is Director of International Business at the UKFT. Over the last 30 years Paul has helped thousands of fashion and textile designers and brands to export their[...]

The Truth About Branding...it's not about a logo and it's not about generating contentSimon Middleton has had a parallel career for the last decade, as a brand strategy adviser, speaker, and author of books including the bestseller Build A Brand In 30 Days.He is also an award-winning manufacturer and creator of made-in-Britain menswear brands Shackleton[...]

Government figures say that manufacturing is only worth 9% to the UK economy - is this correct? A report by Cambridge University says that the Government has got it wrong when it comes to calculating the value of manufacturing to the UK economy.What is causing the error?And how should they be working it out?Shownotes: www.makeitbritish.co.uk/073 Cambridge University Report Craft's Council[...]

Tom Glover is from a family manufacturing business originally founded in Wigston in Leicester in 1796. He graduated with a degree in product design, and used his design skills to create the Peregrine clothing brand. He knew that the way forward for the family knitwear manufacturing business was to not have to rely on orders from[...]

This week I was at the Houses of Parliament for a meeting with the All Party Parliamentary Group for textiles and fashion to discuss the issue of the lack of skilled garment machinists in the UK.The meeting was organised by Tamara Cincik of Fashion Roundtable, who is the secretariat for the group. There were several UK[...]

There are around 3,800 women in UK prisons at any one time and only one in ten are able to get a job when they leave.It costs £46,000 a year to put women in prison in the UK - why not put this money to good use by training them essential skills while they are[...]

What's the best way of successfully manufacturing small quantities in the UK?In this episode, recorded at Make it British Live!, UK garment and textile manufacturers discuss how designers can work with UK manufacturers.Panellists are:David Williams (Stoll GB & Knit Design Centre) Diana Kakkar (MAES London) Adam Robertson (Kalopsia Collective)This episode was recorded at Make it[...]

Brant Richards and Ed Oxley tell the story of how they launched British menswear brand HebTroCo.In this audio recording of the talk they did at Make it British Live! 2019, Brant and Ed recount the tale of how an idea in the pub turned into a million pound business in just 3 years.Hear how they:Launched[...]

How can technology help UK textile manufacturing become more viable?Our panellists discuss what innovations and technology are helping make UK textile manufacturing relevant for the 21st Century.Panellists are:Nick Keyte (Gieves & Hawkes)Professor Steven Russell (Future Fashion Factory)Mark Randle (Galaxius Systems)Andy Ogden (English Fine Cottons)This episode was recorded at Make it British Live! Some of the points[...]

Want to understand more about protecting your designs?Potter Clarkson are Intellectual Property (IP) specialists, and in this talk, which was presented at Make it British Live!, Dave Holt and Sarah Talland present loads of really helpful information about protecting your design rights.If you develop any sort of brand or product and want to ensure that[...]

Join me as I walk you round the trade show floor at Make it British Live!Following on from the Review of Make it British Live! 2019 on Episode 061, this episode gives you the chance to meet some of the wonderful UK-made brands and manufacturers that were at our yearly event.Hear from fabric weavers, machinery[...]

Kate Dawson is the founder of the All in One Company which celebrates its 10th year in 2019. In this inspiring and moving talk Kate tells of the highs and lows of founding the UK's original onesie company. Made entirely in the UK, in Kate's own factory in Northumberland, the customisable all-in-ones can be created by[...]

Fast or Slow fashion...can we have both when it comes to making in the UK? Find out what our panellists had to say, when they were questioned by environmental journalist and broadcaster Lucy Siegle at Make it British live! Panellists are: Caroline Ash (Fashion Enter), Julia Redman (M&Co), Genevieve Sweeney (Genevieve Sweeney Knitwear) and Henrietta[...]

Tori Murphy trained in textiles at the Royal College of Art and established her home textiles brands in 2012. Starting with just 12 metres of fabrics to produce a few cushions, she now manufactures 8,000m of fabric a year, with a growing reputation for quality, modern fabrics and homeware, manufactured in a traditional way and[...]

Inspiring talks about UK manufacturing took place over the two days of Make it British Live! 2019 at The Business Design Centre, London.In this episode hear a round-up of what the important topics were, and what was discussed by the speakers, who included:Hareesh Kallambella, senior product manager, BurberryKate Dawson, owner and director, The All in[...]

Diana Kakkar runs a high end, small batch manufacturing unit in East London. She works with some well-known fashion designers as well as start-ups, helping them to produce their collections.Diana has some great tips for anyone wanting to understand about fashion manufacturing in small quantities.In this episode discover:How Diana transitioned into fashion from a completely[...]

How do you follow up with a manufacturer (and have a better chance of a response)?I get contacted by people all the time who say that manufacturers have not got back to them. When I dig a little deeper it is usually because the email that they've sent is unclear or tells their life history.[...]

Peter Grey is new business manager for Just Elegant - a garment manufacturer in Leicester.In this episode he gives an interesting insight from a manufacturer's perspective into how the garment industry in Leicester has changed over the last few decades, and how it is closely linked to the UK high street.In this episode discover:Why his[...]

Natalie Riachi has a real passion for slow fashion, and good quality luxury clothing that is well made.She grew up in Scotland and studied knitwear in Galashiels, where the knitwear industry was once a large part of the local area. Having worked in luxury fashion ateliers in Paris for the last few years, Natalie was[...]

As we celebrate 6 months of the Make it British podcast what have been your favourite episodes so far?This episode recaps what you may have missed, and gives you the low-down on the most popular topics and interviews.If you want to listen back to some of the best episodes of the first six months, these[...]

Lance Mitchell from weavers Mitchell Interflex discusses the promising future of the UK woven textile industry.Lance’s family business was established in 1907, and now has a fifth general family member working for them. From a picturesque mill dating back to 1786 in the Lancashire/Yorkshire borders, Mitchell Interflex were once weavers of striped deckchair fabric. They now[...]

In this episode I interview Peter Philips of Abbey England about his family business based in Walsall - the heart of the saddlery industry. Peter gives some great insights, not just into the leather and saddlery industry, but into the UK manufacturing and supply industry in general.There's no other company quite like Abbey England. Originally set-up[...]

Starting a British-made brand is a big undertaking. Isabella Ugochukwu has done just that, and in this episode shares her advice on launching, and growing, a premium British-made leather goods brand.I've known Isabelle for several years now and I've watched her business grow and blossom. She always has fantastic advice to offer those that are also[...]

Simple tips for how UK manufacturers can attract the right clients by just a few changes to their websites.In the latest episode of the podcast I give some simple tips for how UK manufacturers can attract the right clients by just a few changes to their websites.Sorry manufacturers, but you don't always have the clearest[...]

Kalopsia Collective is a social enterprise run by Adam Robertson and his wife Nina Falk. They do small batch manufacturing for designers and printmakers and in a simple and transparent way.Their aim is to create a sustainable alternative to traditional production systems using their assemble manufacturing method, thereby minimising waste and environmental impact with the[...]

With the rise in demand for ethical goods how do you find an ethical factory to produce them?The 50th episode of The Make it British Podcast is published during Fashion Revolution week. Fashion Revolution is a campaign that was set up as a reaction to the Rana Plaza disaster, which saw the collapse of a[...]

Bianca Elgar is a print designer, and founder and creative director of the Bianca Elgar brand.I first met Bianca not long after I founded Make it British, when she came to me looking with help to develop her first fashion collection using her prints.Her business has now evolved from a capsule collection of clothing to[...]

Did you know that 2019 marks 200 years since the landmark Factories Act of 1819? Otherwise known as the Cotton Mills Act, the act was passed to regulate work practices in textile factories.It stated that no children under 9 could be employed in the factories, and that children aged 9 to 16 were to be[...]

Martin Lowe describes himself as 'The Bald Headed Sock Seller' - but he's much more than that.His family business - Roy Lowe & Sons, which he runs with his brother Tim - produces socks for some of the most well known names on the high street.In its heyday Roy Lowe & Sons produced up to 640,000[...]

What's the best way of maximising your attendance at an event?As an event organiser I get lots of questions from exhibitors (and visitors) that are unsure of how to make the most of attending an event.In this episode I give tips and advice for what to do before, during and after an event to maximise[...]

With a background brand management and a family history in manufacturing, Finella Devitt is the founder of luxury accessory brand Firehorse. Working with talented designers, Devitt turns their artwork into beautiful silk scarves which are all made in the UKHaving worked as a business advisor to the creative industries, Finella has some great tips in this[...]

Unfortunately, mistakes can, and do, happen in manufacturing, but there are ways to avoid it.In this episode we look at:the main reasons that manufacturing a product usually goes wronghow to resolve the situation if it doeshow to make sure that it doesn't happen againIf you are struggling to find and work with UK manufacturers I[...]

What makes a great British brand?In this episode I chat to brand guru Simon Middleton about what makes an average brand stand out from an extraordinary one.Simon is my go-to authority on anything to do with creating a brand and telling brand stories - he's been voted one of the world's Top 30 branding professionals, and[...]

Why is swimwear so difficult to make when the products look so simple?This is one of the questions that I put to guest Paul Smithers from Halcyon Blue, a swimwear manufacturer based in Hampshire, UK.Paul fell into manufacturing by accident after acquiring the small factory that was making his swimwear brand for him. He now[...]

In 2014 I had the idea to set up a trade show for UK manufacturers. This episode tells the story of why the event came about - and how it nearly went very horribly wrong!For the first time, I share the behind the scenes story of what triggered the event happening in the first place, and[...]

In this episode of the Make it British podcast I discuss a love of knitwear, in particular the lost art of hand-intarsia, with Genevieve Sweeney.Genevieve trained as a knitwear designer, and after working for several well-known brands, she took the plunge and set up her own label - Genevieve Sweeney - which she describes as[...]

I think visiting a factory is essential for anyone that is developing a new productOne of the benefits of making in the UK is that factory visiting is far easier than if you are making your products overseas.In this episode I run through my 7 reasons why you should be visiting a factory - and[...]

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the bestDebbie Humphreys stumbled across her business idea when she took ownership of a whippet called Bruno and had trouble finding things to keep him warm.With a background in dressmaking and a successful wedding dress business, Debbie started to turn her hand to making clothes for her whippet. When other dog[...]

What are the rules surrounding whether you can label a product as made in the UK?"Can I label my product as made in the UK?' is one of the questions that I get asked the most.The answer to this question is not completely cut and dry, but in this episode I try and clear up[...]

Katherine Hooker started her business with one garment and has been perfecting it ever sinceIn this episode designer Katherine Hooker tells the story of how she took a garment from her wardrobe that she loved, and turned it into a successful business.Part of that success has been due to Katherine's dedication to craftsmanship and creating[...]

When it comes to labelling your products what is the best term to use? Made in Britain, made in the UK, or something else?In this episode I explore the different 'Made in..' labels that brands use to signify where their products are made.Find out which is best...Show notes for this podcast can be found at[...]

Cotton spinning has returned to the UK!Greater Manchester was once known as cottonopolis because it was the home to the world's cotton yarn and fabric production during the industrial revolution.At the turn of the Twentieth Century there were 9,000 people employed in the cotton industry in Ashton-under-Lyne, operating 2 million spindles.But after years of decline[...]

This week the Government released the Ethical Audit Committee's report into sustainability of the UK fashion industry.The report raised the issue of the unethical practices of some manufacturers in Leicester that are giving ‘made in UK’ a bad name.The report has recommended that there is a more proactive approach to HMRC's enforcement of the national[...]

What's it really like being a clothing manufacturer in Leicester?In this episode we hear from Mick Cheema, who runs garment factory Basic Premier in Leicester.Mick set up Basic Premier in 2012, to manufacture up to 70,000 garments a week for high street retailers. Once described as Leicester's greenest factory, in this frank interview Mick sets the[...]

You may have heard of English shoemakers such as Church's, Cheaneys and Tricker's, but there are quite a few other footwear brands that manufacture in the UK too.In this episode I pick my ten favourite British-made footwear brands - from heels, to boots; ballet shoes to slippers.For details of all of the shoe brands featured[...]

In this episode I catch up with Adam Mansell, CEO of the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT)UKFT is a membership network for fashion and textile companies and Adam is a keen supporter of UK manufacturing.In this interview Adam talks about how Brexit is affecting the fashion industry, and also talks about some of the[...]

Last week the UK Government released its interim report into the sustainability of the fashion industry. One of the issues that they addressed was concerns over fast fashion and how it might be leading to poor working conditions in UK garment factories where workers were being paid below the minimum wage and why this was happening.In particular[...]

In this episode I chat to product designer Mat Booth, founder of accessory and luggage brand Both Barrels.Mat founded Both Barrels a few years ago when he realised that there was a gap in the market for a travel brand that was stylish, beautifully crafted and functional.He talks about his design and development process, and[...]

Should manufacturers make samples for free? Some people think manufacturers should do any initial work for no charge in order to pitch for your business.But that's often not the case.In this episode I explain why many UK manufacturers charge for sampling - and how that can be a good thing.Show notes for this podcast: makeitbritish.co.uk/026Stay[...]

 Is the news that Clark's may close its brand new footwear factory in Somerset a sign that the UK manufacturing revival is over?Up to 300,000 pairs a year of the footwear firm's iconic desert boots were to be made at the semi-automated facility, creating up to 80 technical and managerial jobs.But Clark's have recently announced[...]

I'm delighted to welcome long-standing Make it British member Sian Reekie of The Hettie Trading Company to this podcast. Sian is a chemist by trade, but has set up a lifestyle business making accessories for both humans and dogs which she runs with other members of her family.In this interview Sian talks about her experience[...]

Is it really more expensive to make in the UK? Or is there a reason that some of the most profitable retailers are using more local manufacturing?In this episode I dive deeper into prices. More specifically - how you can sell a garment made in the UK and still make as much profit as you would[...]

Meet Jenny Holloway, owner of Fashion Enter, a social enterprise garment factory based in North London.Jenny not only manufactures for small brands and start-ups, helping create samples and small production runs, but she's also manufactured for some of the UK's most well-known retailers - such as ASOS and M&S.In this very frank interview, Jenny discusses how[...]

Putting it all together Over the last 4 episodes we've looked at products, materials, prices and MOQS. Today's show covers how to put it all together - and make sure that everything is delivered on time   This episode is the fifth in a series of 5 podcasts that accompany my Get Set for Manufacturing[...]

What is an MOQ and why do manufacturers have them? A minimum order quantity (or MOQ) is the lowest amount that a manufacturer is able to make of a certain product. The manufacturer generally sets their MOQ based on how many of a production run they need to make in order for it to be[...]

Welcome to Day 3 of the Get Set for Manufacturing Challenge! This episode tackles how to price a product. There are a few little calculations you’re need to make, and in this episode I explain how to make them. As well as a sanity check to make sure that you've got your prices right. I[...]

  Can a manufacturer source materials for you? Whilst some manufacturers may be able to source raw materials for you, depending on the product, in reality most UK manufacturers won’t have the time or the resources to do so. On this episode I look at why this might be - and what you can do[...]

Ever wondered why a manufacturer didn't get back to your emails? Listen to this episode of the podcast to find out the top 3 reasons why you may not be getting a response when you reach out to a manufacturer. This episode is the first in a series of 5 podcasts that accompany my Get[...]

What will the next year hold for UK manufacturing? In this episode I look at some of the trends that I think will impact manufacturing in the coming 12 months. With Brexit on the cards in March, 2019 is sure to be an interesting year for the UK - but how will it affect our[...]

In this episode I chat to Ian Maclean, managing director of John Smedley - the oldest operating factory in the world.John Smedley are one of the finest knitwear manufacturers in the world. The company was established 235 years ago, at the start of the Industrial Revolution, and they still operate out of the same factory in[...]

Are you thinking of starting a brand that is made in the UK, or developing a new product?In this episode I cover the 10 mistakes that people make when launching a new product, and give tips on how to avoid them.Subscribe to this podcast – and support UK manufacturing Stay in TouchBritish Brand Accelerator - Find out how[...]

Today I am interviewing Edward Sexton from Glencroft Countrywear, a company that have been members of Make it British from the very early days. Glencroft is a family business selling British wool and sheepskin products, as well as traditional country wear such as tweed hats. The business was started by Edward’s father, Richard Sexton, who[...]

In this episode I look at how UK textile manufacturing fared in 2018, and what I think the future holds for 2019 and beyond.- Was it a good year for the industry?- Who were the winners and losers?- And what are the challenges going into 2019?UK Manufacturing ReviewThis podcast is a summary of an article[...]

What are the benefits of manufacturing locally if you are a small clothing brand?In this interview with Katya Wildman, founder of Bombshell, I talk to her about why she chose to reshore the production of her dresses back to the U.K. and the impact that's had on her business.Recorded inside the busy factory in North London[...]

Do you think that manufacturing in the UK is more expensive?In this episode I dispel some of the myths around making in the UK being more pricey. Quite often it's down to not WHERE you manufacture, but WHAT you manufacture.Yes, the price of labour in the U.K. is higher than it is in many other[...]

In this interview I chat with Bhavik Master, director at Leicester knitwear manufacturers Jackmasters and producers of British Christmas JumpersDid you know that £220 million of Christmas jumpers are sold every year? Many of them are produced in Leicester thanks to the ability of local factories such as Jackmasters to turn around seasonal product in[...]

Want to know the best place to find a UK Manufacturer?In this episode I discuss how you can find a UK manufacturer. I believe the best way to find a manufacturer that’s right for you, and your specific product, is at a trade show.  Discover:Why a UK manufacturer might not be responding to your emailsThe reason[...]

There’s a misconception that manufacturing is unpleasant and unwanted work. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Producing physical product can be incredibly satisfying and fulfilling. Listen to my interview with Keith Hanshaw from The Leather Satchel Co. to find out more about the joy of manufacturingI had the pleasure of interviewing Keith Hanshaw, who works[...]

There are so many benefits to having your product made in the UK. But, once you’ve made the decision to make here, how do you find the right manufacturer for you?Whether you’re starting out with a new brand, or you’ve been making overseas and want to bring your production back to the UK, it can[...]

Can running a social enterprise and manufacturing a world-class product go hand in hand?I talk to the inspiring Jo Ashburner-Farr, who has reinstated her family's flag making business as an ethical manufacturing business, focusing on social profit.Run as a social enterprise, Red Dragon Flagmakers take on staff regardless of their background. They give them the skills and[...]

What difference does it really make if you choose to manufacture in the U.K. rather than overseas?You may wonder why I think it is so important that we support our U.K. manufacturers and continue to make here in Britain. In this episode I talk through some of the reasons why I bang the drum for[...]

How do UK manufacturers and brands compete with huge overseas factories and the likes of Black Friday discounting?In this episode I conduct a 'no holds barred' interview with James Eden, owner of Private White V.C. James tells me how he's turned a clothing factory that solely manufactured for other brands, into one that makes 9o%[...]

Who is Kate Hills? And why is she so passionate about UK manufacturing?In this first full-length episode I give you the behind the scenes of who I am, why I do what I do and who Make it British is for.DiscoverWhy I set up my own factory after I graduatedThe role that the model Kate[...]