Welcome to Meet the Makers, the podcast from Manufacturing NI.
Building on the success of our in-person events during Manufacturing Month NI each May, this new podcast series brings the conversation online offering direct access to the leaders shaping Northern Ireland's manufacturing sector.
Each episode, our host Stephen Kelly, CEO of Manufacturing NI, sits down with industry leaders to talk about everything from leadership and innovation to technology, people and the future of manufacturing.
Tune in for practical insight, leadership lessons, and how manufacturing leaders are shaping the future of the sector.
Meet the Makers is delivered by E-DATA and supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
So, let's meet the makers.
Episode 7: The Future of Northern Ireland’s High Streets with Glyn Roberts, Retail NI
What does the future look like for Northern Ireland’s high streets, and how can retailers adapt to a rapidly changing business environment?
In this episode of Manufacturing NI’s Meet the Makers podcast, Stephen Kelly is joined by Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Retail NI, for a wide-ranging conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing retail and town centres across Northern Ireland.
Glyn shares his experience of representing businesses through some of the most challenging periods in recent decades, including COVID, rising business costs and major changes in the way people shop.
The conversation explores:
• The changing role of Northern Ireland's high streets
• Why COVID became a wake-up call for retailers to embrace click and collect, online marketing, and omni-channel selling
• How data, AI and technology can improve retail operations and productivity
• How retailers are becoming community hubs, supporting local suppliers, post offices, and vulnerable customers
• The opportunities to create new businesses and new life on our high streets
Glyn also discusses the work being done through East Belfast Enterprise to turn vacant and derelict retail buildings into opportunities for new businesses and entrepreneurs.
For retailers, manufacturers and other businesses looking to understand how technology and digital transformation can support growth, the discussion also looks at how businesses can use technology not simply to market themselves, but to improve decision-making, productivity and day-to-day operations.
---
Meet the Makers Podcast is produced in partnership with Manufacturing NI and the E-DATA Collaborative Network, a network of businesses exploring how digital technology, data and AI can unlock business growth and build resilience.
Whether you are starting your digital journey or looking to build on existing progress, the E-DATA Collaborative Network can help you understand what works, learn from real business examples and access support to take action.
Sign up to benefit from peer learning and knowledge exchange – https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/ (https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/)
E-DATA is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
21 Sept 2026
Episode 6: John Woods on Seizing Opportunities and Building Linwoods into a Global Health Food Brand
In Episode 6 of Meet the Makers, Manufacturing NI CEO Stephen Kelly is joined by John Woods, founder of Linwoods Health Foods, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, ambition and the values that have shaped his remarkable business journey.
John shares how he moved from his family’s hardware and agricultural business into bakery and dairy, before spotting an opportunity in health foods that would grow into an internationally recognised Northern Ireland brand, now enjoyed in more than 15 countries.
With his “terrier-like” hunger for opportunity, John reflects on spotting possibilities, learning from setbacks and staying persistent in the face of uncertainty.
He also discusses the importance of continuous improvement, staying true to core values and embracing research, innovation and collaboration to keep moving forward.
The conversation explores:
• The risks and rewards of entrepreneurship
• Building a strong company culture and family business
• The role of research, technology and collaboration in driving innovation
• Learning from setbacks and embracing uncertainty
• Passing on values while encouraging the next generation to forge their own path
John’s story is a reminder that successful businesses don’t stand still. They evolve, adapt and keep looking for ways to do things better without losing sight of the values that built them.
Watch the full episode of Meet the Makers now.
---
Meet the Makers Podcast is produced in partnership with E-DATA Collaborative Network, a network of businesses exploring how digital technology, data and AI can unlock business growth and build resilience.
Whether you are starting your digital journey or looking to build on existing progress, the E-DATA Collaborative Network can help you understand what works, learn from real business examples and access support to take action.
Sign up to benefit from peer learning and knowledge exchange – https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/ (https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/)
E-DATA is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
19 Aug 2026
Shaping Northern Ireland’s Business Future - Insights from Gráinne McVeigh
In this episode of Manufacturing NI's Meet the Makers podcast, CEO, Stephen Kelly is joined by Grainne McVeigh, former Director at Invest Northern Ireland. Grainne shares her diverse career journey, from personnel management to international economic development in the U.S. and supporting investment and growth across Northern Ireland.
The conversation explores how companies successfully navigate market shifts through adaptability, strategic pivots, and niche positioning. Stephen and Grainne examine the evolving landscape of workforce development, emphasising why a collaborative, two-way relationship between employers and employees is vital for modern skills and sector growth.
The discussion also explores regional innovation and how greater collaboration across different sectors - particularly bridging the public and private sectors - can unlock new opportunities, drive digital transformation, and foster a collective approach to tackling future challenges.
Key insights include:
Surviving and succeeding in shifting markets
Working alongside major manufacturing investors via Invest NI
Building vital industry skills through two-way employee-employer relationships
How cross-sector collaboration drives regional innovation and - problem-solving
Why digital transformation and decarbonisation are becoming central to future competitiveness
Meet the Makers Podcast is produced in partnership with E-DATA Collaborative Network, a network of businesses exploring how digital technology, data and AI can unlock business growth and build resilience.
Whether you are starting your digital journey or looking to build on existing progress, the E-DATA Collaborative Network can help you understand what works, learn from real business examples and access support to take action.
Sign up to benefit from peer learning and knowledge exchange – https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/ (https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/)
E-DATA is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
6 Aug 2026
From Banking to Aerospace: Joanne Liddle’s Leadership Journey at IPC Mouldings
In this episode of Meet the Makers, Stephen Kelly sits down with Joanne Liddle, Managing Director of IPC Mouldings.
IPC Mouldings plays a vital role in the aerospace industry, producing components found in over 2 million aircraft seats worldwide - from in-flight entertainment bezels to armrests and latch assemblies that enhance passenger comfort. Joanne’s leadership has been instrumental in the company’s growth.
With a background in banking and finance, she took a less traditional route into manufacturing, bringing a fresh perspective to the industry. Her story highlights the value of transferrable skills in shaping effective leadership.
Drawing on both her financial background and her family’s engineering roots, Joanne has built a culture focused on quality, collaboration, and continuous learning. In this episode, she shares practical insights on:
- Working with external experts to avoid costly mistakes
- Approaching digital transformation with a clear, grounded strategy
- Building a strong talent pipeline through apprenticeships and school engagement
---
Meet the Makers Podcast is produced in partnership with E-DATA Collaborative Network, a network of businesses exploring how digital technology, data and AI can unlock business growth and build resilience.
Whether you are starting your digital journey or looking to build on existing progress, the E-DATA Collaborative Network can help you understand what works, learn from real business examples and access support to take action.
Sign up to benefit from peer learning and knowledge exchange – https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/ (https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/)
E-DATA is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
6 Aug 2026
From Family Timber Business to Global Agri Manufacturer: George Fleming’s Story
Some manufacturers chase growth at all costs. For George Fleming, the focus has always been on steady growth, strong values and investing in people.
In this episode of Meet the Makers, George shares how Fleming Agri has grown from its roots as a family timber business into a global manufacturer of agricultural machinery, exporting to markets including Australia and New Zealand while staying true to its core values.
With over four decades of leadership experience, George reflects on the importance of long-term planning, financial discipline, employee development and community involvement in building a business that lasts.
The conversation also explores how Fleming Agri has continued to adapt through innovation — from adopting CAD technology in the 1990s to using live digital drawings today to support more efficient operations.
Key highlights:
The legacy of strong family values as a foundation for success
Practical strategies for operational resilience in uncertain times
The power of collaboration and community in strengthening manufacturing networks
The importance of strategic planning, data-driven demand forecasting, and financial discipline
Lessons on leadership that inspire trust, loyalty, and long-term growth
Meet the Makers Podcast is developed in partnership with E-DATA, a network of businesses exploring how digital technology, data and AI can unlock business growth and build resilience.
Whether you are starting your digital journey or looking to build on existing progress, the E-DATA Collaborative Network can help you understand what works, learn from real business examples and access support to take action.
Sign up to benefit from peer learning and knowledge exchange – https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/ (https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/)
E-DATA is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Resources:
Fleming Agri website: www.fleming-agri.com (http://www.fleming-agri.com)
Manufacturing Month NI: www.manufacturingmonthni.com (http://www.manufacturingmonthni.com)
Manufacturing NI website: www.manufacturingni.org (http://www.manufacturingni.org)
E-DATA website: www.e-data.ai (http://www.e-data.ai)
6 Aug 2026
The Secret to 100+ Years in Food Manufacturing - Insights from Brian Irwin
In the realm of food manufacturing, understanding the landscape is critical for success. Brian Irwin, Director of Irwin’s Bakery, a cornerstone in Northern Ireland's bakery industry, shares his experiences and insights on navigating the challenges of this dynamic field.
In this engaging interview, Brian shares insights into the food manufacturing sector in Northern Ireland, emphasising innovation, resilience, and community impact.
Highlights:
• History of W.D. Irwin and its market position
• The importance of quality and innovation in food manufacturing
• Leadership lessons from a family business
• Impact of automation and digital transformation
• Community and economic contribution of local food producers
Meet the Makers Podcast is developed in partnership with E-DATA, a network of businesses exploring how digital technology, data and AI can unlock business growth and build resilience.
Whether you are starting your digital journey or looking to build on existing progress, the E-DATA Collaborative Network can help you understand what works, learn from real business examples and access support to take action.
Sign up to benefit from peer learning and knowledge exchange – https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/ (https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/)
E-DATA is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Resources:
Irwin’s website: www.irwinsbakery.com (http://www.irwinsbakery.com)
E-DATA website: www.e-data.ai (http://www.e-data.ai)
Manufacturing NI website: www.manufacturingni.org (http://www.manufacturingni.org)
6 Aug 2026
From Family Business to Industry Leader – The Hutchinson Engineering Journey
In this in-depth interview, Mark Hutchinson, CEO of Hutchinson, shares insights into leading a manufacturing business through growth, digital transformation, and community engagement.
Discover how resilience, culture, and innovation drive success in Northern Ireland's manufacturing sector.
We also explore how Hutchinson is putting innovation into action, including the use of Bluetooth tracking across the factory floor to locate components with one-metre accuracy, saving hundreds of hours every year.
Meet the Makers Podcast is developed in partnership with E-DATA, a network of businesses exploring how digital technology, data and AI can unlock business growth and build resilience.
Whether you are starting your digital journey or looking to build on existing progress, the E-DATA Collaborative Network can help you understand what works, learn from real business examples and access support to take action.
E-DATA is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Explore More:
Hutchinson website - https://www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk (https://www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk)
Lean Tours Community Initiative - https://www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk (https://www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk)
E-DATA website – https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/ (https://e-data.ai/contact_v2/)
Manufacturing NI website: www.manufacturingni.org (http://www.manufacturingni.org)
Contact Meet The Makers - Manufacturing NI Podcast
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Meet The Makers - Manufacturing NI Podcast?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
