Ep 6. Shoes

Inside the Factory is a popular BBC television series that takes viewers behind the scenes of some of the UK's largest factories to witness the manufacturing process first-hand. In season 2, episode 6, the show explores the world of footwear production.

The episode titled "Shoes" follows presenter Gregg Wallace as he visits a shoe factory in Northamptonshire, known as the home of British shoemaking. The factory makes over 1,000 pairs of shoes a week and employs around 200 staff, many of whom have worked in the industry for years.

The episode opens with Wallace donning a white coat and entering the factory through a small door, which seems to lead to a secret world of shoe manufacturing. Wallace introduces viewers to the history of shoemaking in Northamptonshire, which dates back over 900 years. He explains how the town became the center of the industry, due to its proximity to high-quality leather and skilled craftsmen.

As the tour of the factory begins, viewers are shown how leather is cut into different shapes and sizes to make the various components of a shoe. The factory employs a range of specialist machines and technologies to ensure that every shoe is made to the highest standards. From the cutting and stitching of the leather panels to attaching the soles, every step of the process is carried out with precision and care.

One of the most interesting parts of the episode is the insight into the craft of shoe lasting. The lasting process involves attaching the upper part of the shoe to the insole and sole, creating the shape of the shoe. This process is a skilled job that requires years of training and experience. Viewers get a close-up view of how a shoe is lasted from start to finish, and the skill and precision involved in getting it right.

The episode also explores the different types of shoes made in the factory, from traditional brogues and oxfords to fashion-forward sneakers. The factory produces shoes for a range of brands, from high-end designers to more affordable high street stores. Viewers get to see how the different types of shoes are made, and the range of materials and techniques used to create each one.

Throughout the episode, Wallace interviews a number of employees at the factory, from the leather cutters and stitchers to the designers and management. They all share a passion for their work and a pride in their product, which is evident in the quality of the shoes produced.

The episode concludes with a look at how the shoes are packaged and shipped to their final destinations around the world. From the factory floor to the customer's feet, viewers get a real appreciation of the skill and craftsmanship involved in the production of each pair of shoes.

Overall, "Shoes" is a fascinating insight into the world of footwear production, which will appeal to anyone with an interest in fashion, design, or manufacturing. The episode is well-paced and informative, with a good mix of technical detail and human interest stories. It provides a timely reminder of the importance of skilled craftsmanship and the role it plays in creating high-quality products.