Episode Summary:

In Episode 5 of Season 4, we sit down with Richard Patch, founder of the Manufacturers Hub, to explore how a side project to help his employer find new leads has grown into one of the most talked-about platforms in UK manufacturing.

What began as a simple database of suppliers and customers has quickly developed into a fast-growing online hub with thousands of followers, hundreds of businesses onboard, and a mission to make visibility and networking affordable for every manufacturer.

We explore:

• How Manufacturers Hub grew from a spreadsheet idea into a national platform
• Why visibility remains the biggest problem for SMEs in manufacturing
• The challenges of building a business while working full-time
• Why the price point was set deliberately low to encourage mass adoption
• Success stories from members who have won contracts and grown their reach
• Richard’s vision for scaling the platform in the UK and beyond

“It’s like Yellow Pages, but built for modern manufacturing.”
“If you haven’t got visibility, you haven’t got leads. And without leads, you haven’t got growth.”
“We’re not chasing big invoices. We’re chasing big numbers of members.”

This episode is packed with insight on digital visibility, community building, and why simple ideas can become game-changing solutions.

Key Topics:

• The origins of Manufacturers Hub and its early growth
• Visibility problems in UK manufacturing and how to solve them
• Affordable membership models and why £50 matters
• Balancing a startup with full-time work
• SEO, LinkedIn, and the power of content marketing
• Success stories from members gaining leads and contracts
• Scaling plans, including ecommerce and international potential
• Why branding and digital presence are critical for manufacturers

🎧 Listen now:

https://themetalguys.transistor.fm/

🧷 Episode Quote:

"We’re not here to take thousands from a few companies. We’re here to give visibility to thousands." – Richard Patch

🔗 Sponsors:

SteelBuy is a digital marketplace built for the metals industry, helping buyers and sellers connect with speed, transparency, and simplicity.

NERO Pipeline Connections is a trusted UK stockholder of stainless steel valves, fittings, and pipeline products, supporting industries from process to precision.

Comton Group Ltd. is a specialist recruiter for the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors, helping businesses hire the right people from shop floor to senior leadership.

🎙️ About The Metal Guys Talk Business

Hosted by Peter Comerford and Mike Bolton, The Metal Guys Talk Business is the go-to podcast for professionals in the metals, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Each episode explores the challenges, changes, and big ideas shaping the industry from the shop floor to the boardroom.

🤝 Connect with the Hosts:

Peter Comerford – Connect on LinkedIn
Mike Bolton – Connect on LinkedIn
Richard Patch – Connect on LinkedIn