The Metal Guys Talk Business

Comton Group
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Peter Comerford and Mike Bolton are The Metal Guys! They have worked in the metal sector for over 10 years, a huge global industry that produces more than a billion tonnes of material annually and affects all other industries and walks of life. They now run a successful recruitment and marketing company servicing the metal and engineering sectors, making them ideally placed to provide impartial, independent insight into the industry, sitting outside the hierarchy of the various stages of the industry from raw material to finished product. Under the moniker of The Metal Guys, the pair continue to gain insights from - and ask the difficult questions to - the decision makers and technical experts that you won't hear on any other podcast. If you produce, work with or supply metal, then tune in and join the conversation.

  1. S04E06 | Digital Product Passports with Matthew Ekholm

    2D AGO

    S04E06 | Digital Product Passports with Matthew Ekholm

    Episode Title: Digital Product Passports and their impact in the Steel Sector Hosts: Peter Comerford and Michael BoltonGuest: Matthew Ekholm, Strategic Engagements Manager, Provenant (Part of Protokol)Release Date: 17th February 2026 Episode Summary: In this forward-looking episode of The Metal Guys Talk Business, Peter and Michael are joined by Matthew Ekholm from Provenant (Part of Protokol) to unpack another of the big upcoming shifts facing the metals industry, Digital Product Passports. The conversation explores what Digital Product Passports are, why the EU is mandating them, and what they mean in practical terms for steel and aluminium producers, distributors, and stockholders. From compliance timelines and traceability to circular economy benefits and greenwashing concerns. This episode cuts through the noise and explains what businesses should be thinking about now, rather than in 2028. Key Topics CoveredWhat Are Digital Product Passports? Matthew explains Digital Product Passports as a digital evolution of traditional mill certificates, physically linked to products through QR codes or RFID, providing accessible and structured data across the product lifecycle. Discussion on why steel and aluminium have been prioritised under the EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation. Regulatory Timelines and What’s Coming A clear breakdown of expected timelines, including delegated acts for steel anticipated in late 2026, with compliance windows extending into 2028 and 2029. Why waiting until regulations are finalised could leave businesses scrambling to catch up. Impact on the Steel and Aluminium Supply Chain How Digital Product Passport requirements apply to manufacturers, stockholders, and downstream processors placing products on the EU market. Clarification on UK-only sales versus EU exports, and why Digital Product Passports are likely to become a global standard beyond Europe. From Paper Certificates to Digital Traceability Comparison between traditional mill test certificates and Digital Product Passports. How Digital Product Passports centralise quality, compliance, sustainability, and traceability data into a single digital system that follows the product through the value chain. Operational Challenges for the Metals Industry The realities for small, family-run, and less digitalised metal businesses. Why data readiness, supply chain engagement, and early pilot projects are critical, particularly where information is siloed or still managed manually. Circular Economy and End of Life Benefits How Digital Product Passports can significantly improve recycling, reuse, and material sorting at end of life. The potential to reduce down-cycling by giving scrap processors confidence in material composition, grade, and age. Greenwashing, Transparency, and Trust How Digital Product Passports help credible businesses prove sustainability claims while working alongside regulations like the Green Claims Directive. Why Digital Product Passports do not automatically eliminate bad actors, but strongly favour those doing the right thing. Data Security and Confidentiality Explanation of public versus privileged data within a Digital Product Passport. How sensitive commercial information can be protected while still enabling access for regulators, recyclers, and supply chain partners. The Role of Provenant (part of Protokol) An overview of Protokol’s background as a blockchain focused software company and how that expertise supports Digital Product Passport solutions. How Protokol helps companies through readiness assessments, pilot projects, and early stage implementation. Creating Value Beyond Compliance Why Digital Product Passports should not be seen purely as a regulatory cost. Exploration of opportunities around operational efficiency, sustainability storytelling, customer engagement, warranties, and long term business value. Learn more about Protokol: https://www.protokol.com Connect with Matthew Ekholm on LinkedIn PLEASE NOTE - This episode was filmed and recorded in 2025 hence using the Protokol name instead of Provenant. Provenant is a brand name for Protokol's SaaS product for Digital Product Passports. SEASON FOUR of The Metal Guys Talk Business is sponsored by: SteelBuy, a digital platform revolutionising the way businesses trade metal products online. NERO Pipeline Connections, a trusted UK stockholder of stainless steel valves, fittings, and pipeline products, supporting industries from process to precision. Comton Group, Recruitment Engineered for Metal and Manufacturing. The Metal Guys Talk Business is created and produced by Comton Group.Contact us via our social media channels to discuss the podcast and recruitment solutions for your business. Social Media Accounts LinkedIn: Michael Bolton - MikePeter Comerford - PeteComton Group - Comton Group TikTok: Mike - @comtonmikePete - @comtonpete Instagram:Mike - @comtonmikePete - @comtonpete

    1h 10m
  2. S04E05 | Manufacturers Hub

    09/23/2025

    S04E05 | Manufacturers Hub

    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 platformWhy visibility remains the biggest problem for SMEs in manufacturingThe challenges of building a business while working full-timeWhy the price point was set deliberately low to encourage mass adoptionSuccess stories from members who have won contracts and grown their reachRichard’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 growthVisibility problems in UK manufacturing and how to solve themAffordable membership models and why £50 mattersBalancing a startup with full-time workSEO, LinkedIn, and the power of content marketingSuccess stories from members gaining leads and contractsScaling plans, including ecommerce and international potentialWhy 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

    57 min
  3. S04E04 | Steel Quotas, Trade Pressure, and Supply Chain Survival: Paul Whitehouse on the Current Crisis

    08/11/2025 · BONUS

    S04E04 | Steel Quotas, Trade Pressure, and Supply Chain Survival: Paul Whitehouse on the Current Crisis

    Episode Summary: In Episode 4 of Season 4, we sit down with Paul Whitehouse, Managing Director at Steel & Alloy, part of Gonvarri Industries, to unpack the biggest trade and supply chain pressures currently facing the UK steel sector. Steel & Alloy is one of the UK’s leading steel service centres supplying the automotive industry, and Paul brings a sharp, honest view of how businesses are reacting to tariffs, trade restrictions, and market volatility. This episode is a must-listen for anyone operating in metals, manufacturing, automotive supply, or logistics. We explore: How recent quota changes are disrupting supply chainsThe unintended consequences of the UK's trade policyWhat stockholding risk looks like in today’s marketWhether service centres can plan long-term under current systemsWhat Paul would say to UK policymakers “We saw this coming. The issue was, no one wanted to deal with it.” “We’re not just competing on price — we’re competing on certainty.” “Our customers don’t care about quotas. They just need their steel.” Key Topics: Tariffs, quotas, and the problem with residualsStockholding risks in volatile trading environmentsBrexit, steel safeguards, and policy blind spotsThe reality of automotive supply chain pressuresWhy stable leadership matters in uncertain timesSteel & Alloy’s role inside Gonvarri IndustriesReal-world views from the commercial front lineWhat’s needed to futureproof UK steel supply🧷 Episode Quote: "This isn’t just about steel. It’s about the systems that decide who gets to compete." – Paul Whitehouse 🔗 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 and Guest: Peter Comerford – Connect on LinkedIn Mike Bolton – Connect on LinkedIn Paul Whitehouse – Connect on LinkedIn

    57 min
  4. S04E03 | Can UK Manufacturing Compete? Rowan Crozier on Global Growth and Thinking Bigger.

    07/31/2025

    S04E03 | Can UK Manufacturing Compete? Rowan Crozier on Global Growth and Thinking Bigger.

    Episode Summary: In Episode 3 of Season 4, we speak with Rowan Crozier, CEO of Brandauer, one of the UK’s leading precision stamping specialists, about what it really takes to scale a British manufacturing business in a global market. Rowan leads a business that exports 85% of its products worldwide, supplying into aerospace, automotive, medical, and emerging sectors like green energy. He also plays a national role in skills development and manufacturing policy. In this episode, we dig into: What it takes to sell precision UK manufacturing on a global stageHow Brandauer stays ahead with automation, apprenticeships, and investmentWhy UK firms must better understand their identity and valueThe realities of running a small business with big ambitionWhat Rowan wants government and industry leaders to understand nowWhether you’re leading a small team or trying to grow your export footprint, this episode is full of hard-won lessons and practical insight. Key Topics: Exporting 85% of production from a Birmingham baseHow a Tier 2 manufacturer can win Tier 1 workDigital transformation, robotics, and automation in precision stampingWhy Brandauer doubled down on marketing, video, and brandingThe importance of apprenticeships and succession planningRowan’s national work on skills policy and leadership in manufacturingThe balance between being proud of British manufacturing and thinking globallyThe real cost of standing stillEpisode Quote: "There’s no such thing as small anymore. If you want to grow, you have to act like a global business." – Rowan Crozier 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 a podcast for professionals in the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Each episode explores the challenges, changes, and big ideas shaping the industry from the shop floor to boardroom. Connect with the Hosts and Guest(s): Peter Comerford – Connect on LinkedInMike Bolton – Connect on LinkedInRowan Crozier – Connect on LinkedIn

    1h 29m
  5. S04E02 | The State of UK Manufacturing: Stephen Morley’s Unfiltered Take

    07/23/2025

    S04E02 | The State of UK Manufacturing: Stephen Morley’s Unfiltered Take

    Episode Summary: In Episode 2 of Season 4, we sit down with Stephen Morley, President of the Confederation of British Metalforming, to get his unfiltered take on the current state of UK manufacturing. Stephen has spent decades on the inside of the industry, working directly with companies across the country and lobbying for change at the highest levels. He’s honest, experienced, and not afraid to call out what’s not working and give his frank opinions on what is! In this episode, we explore: Why the UK is still struggling to compete globally in manufacturingThe policy and investment gaps that are holding the sector backHow trade associations like CBM are pushing for real changeWhat we can learn from other industrial models like Germany’s MittelstandThe future of skills, sustainability, and government supportWhy the time for nice words is over and action is overdueIf you care about the future of UK manufacturing or want to hear what industry leaders are really thinking behind the scenes, this is the one to listen to. Key Topics: The reality of running and supporting UK manufacturing todayWhy the UK’s industrial strategy feels stuckWhat’s missing in policy, investment, and long-term planningSustainability goals vs business pressuresSkills and succession across the manufacturing workforceWhat trade bodies can and can't do in a changing climateExport struggles, energy costs, and global competitivenessHow the UK can rebuild respect and resilience in its industrial baseSponsors: 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 a podcast for professionals in the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Each episode explores the challenges, changes, and big ideas shaping the industry from the shop floor to boardroom. Connect with the Hosts and Guest(s): Peter Comerford – Connect on LinkedInMike Bolton – Connect on LinkedInStephen Morley – Connect on LinkedIn

    1h 22m
  6. S04E01 | Rodney Rice, from Blast Furnace to Boardroom

    07/16/2025

    S04E01 | Rodney Rice, from Blast Furnace to Boardroom

    Episode Summary: We’re kicking off Season 4 with a guest we've been wanting to get on the mic for a long time: Rodney Rice, Director at Langley Alloys. Rodney’s career started in a blast furnace at British Steel and took him through R&D, marketing, and operations before he landed at Langley Alloys, a business focused on niche metals for some of the toughest environments in the world. In this episode, we cover a lot of ground: How 25 years at British Steel shaped Rodney’s careerWhat happens when opportunities stop knocking and how to take the leapThe challenges and rewards of moving from a big corporate to a nimble niche businessWhy Langley Alloys doubled down on Super Duplex and Nickel AlloysThe underrated power of websites and marketing in metalsLessons in leadership, internal growth, and building high-performing teamsIf you’re in metals, manufacturing, or leading a growing team, this one is packed with real, relatable insights. Key Topics: Starting out in British SteelWhat it means to “run out of road” in a big companyTransitioning from metallurgy to marketing and general managementBuilding credibility across industries without ticking every boxLangley Alloys' focus on high-performance alloys for harsh environmentsWhy websites, marketing, and video content still move the needleCareer development, apprenticeships, and creating stretch rolesHow to stop ignoring warm leads and build better customer journeysWhy young people want more than money and what to give them insteadSponsors: 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 a podcast for professionals in the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Each episode explores the challenges, changes, and big ideas shaping the industry from the shop floor to boardroom. Connect with the Hosts and Guest(s): Peter Comerford – Connect on LinkedIn Mike Bolton – Connect on LinkedInRodney Rice – Connect on LinkedIn

    1h 16m
  7. S03E14 | Addressing the Skills Gap in the Metal Industry

    10/01/2024 · BONUS

    S03E14 | Addressing the Skills Gap in the Metal Industry

    Podcast Show Notes: The Metal Guys Talk Business - Special EpisodeHosts: Peter Comerford, Michael Bolton, and special feature host Nadine Bloxsome (CEO, ALFED)Episode Title: Addressing the Skills Gap in the Metal IndustryRelease Date: 1st October 2024 Episode Summary:In this special episode of The Metal Guys Talk Business, hosts Peter Comerford and Michael Bolton are joined by Nadine Bloxsome (CEO of ALFED) to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding the skills shortage in the metal sector. Focusing on aluminium, the episode covers apprenticeships, career progression, and sustainability as key drivers in attracting the next generation of talent. With insights from industry leaders, the discussion highlights how companies are working to bridge the skills gap and foster a dynamic, future-ready workforce. Key Discussion Points: Apprenticeships & The Skills Gap: The launch of the Aluminium Federation's first-ever Apprentice Awards, aiming to address talent shortages and promote skill development across the sector.Mark Allen (President, ALFED) discusses the Federation’s role in spearheading initiatives that help cultivate new talent and build sustainable workforce solutions. Challenges in Talent Retention: Amy Bird (CEO, Countrywide Metals and Founder of Women in Recycling) offers her perspective on the challenges of retaining younger workers and women in the metal industry.The importance of creating visible career paths, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to encourage long-term retention. The Role of Leadership in Developing Talent: Michael Horan (CEO, Sherwood Stainless and Aluminium) highlights how effective leadership and mentorship can shape the future workforce, emphasising the importance of giving apprentices hands-on, diverse experiences.Leadership’s critical role in fostering a supportive and motivating environment to help young professionals succeed. Sustainability as a Key Attraction: Rachel Wiffin (Senior Engineer, Quality Systems Manager) explores the role sustainability plays in shaping the future of the metal industry, particularly the growing focus on aluminium recycling.How businesses can use sustainability initiatives to attract environmentally-conscious talent and position themselves as leaders in green manufacturing. Industry-Specific Insights: Mark Allen and Amy Bird share their experiences on how the metal sector is adapting to meet the needs of the current and future workforce.Amy Bird discusses the role of women in recycling and how initiatives like "Women in Recycling" are helping diversify the industry.Michael Horan’s approach to developing internal talent through robust apprenticeship programs and leadership opportunities. Learn More:For more insights on how the aluminium and metal industries are addressing the skills shortage, connect with Peter Comerford, Michael Bolton, and Nadine Bloxsome on LinkedIn. SEASON THREE of The Metal Guys Talk Business is sponsored by: SteelBuy: A digital platform revolutionising how businesses trade metal products online.TW Metals: A leading stockholder and distributor of high-performance metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium.Comton Group: A recruitment agency specializing in the metal, manufacturing, and engineering sectors. The Metal Guys Talk Business is created and produced by Comton Group.Contact us on our social media channels to discuss the podcast and explore recruitment solutions tailored to your business. Social Media Accounts: Follow us on LinkedInTikTok: @comtonpete and @comtonmikeInstagram: @comtonpete and @comtonmike

    1h 35m
  8. S03E13 | Passive vs Active candidates in the recruitment market.

    09/03/2024 · BONUS

    S03E13 | Passive vs Active candidates in the recruitment market.

    The Metal Guys Talk Business - Bonus Episode Hosts: Pete Comerford and Mike BoltonEpisode Title: Active vs. Passive Candidates in RecruitmentRelease Date: 3rd September 2024 In this bonus episode, Pete and Mike dive into the nuances of recruitment, specifically focusing on the differences between active and passive candidates. They discuss the challenges and strategies of recruiting top talent, particularly in the metals industry. The hosts share insights on effectively engaging passive candidates and the importance of a flexible, candidate-centric approach during the recruitment process. They also touch on the significance of understanding candidate motivations and how businesses can adapt to the evolving recruitment landscape. Key Discussion Points: Active Candidates: Typically found on job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, or through direct applications.Often looking for a step up in salary, especially given the rising cost of living.Tend to move quickly through the recruitment process, sometimes securing multiple interviews simultaneously.Employers need to make swift decisions to avoid losing these candidates to other offers.Passive Candidates: Often not actively seeking new opportunities but are approached by recruiters.Recruitment involves creating opportunities that align with the candidate's skill set.Requires a more tailored and persuasive interview process, focusing on selling the benefits and culture of the organisation.Need for businesses to be flexible in their recruitment processes to attract and secure passive candidates.Recruitment Process Challenges: The importance of a well-structured recruitment process, especially for passive candidates.The risk of losing top talent due to inflexibility in interview scheduling or offer delays.The need for businesses to understand the current market and adjust salary expectations accordingly.Candidate Experience: Emphasising the candidate's experience during the recruitment process to ensure engagement.The impact of timely communication and clear processes on candidate satisfaction.The critical role of onboarding and continuous development in retaining top talent.Industry-Specific Recruitment Insights: Challenges in recruiting within the metals industry, where specific experience and skills are often scarce.Discussion on how to attract candidates from outside the industry and the value they can bring.The need for businesses to be proactive and innovative in their recruitment strategies.Learn More: For more insights on recruitment and strategies to attract top talent in the metals industry, connect with Pete Comerford and Mike Bolton on LinkedIn. SEASON THREE of The Metal Guys Talk Business is sponsored by: SteelBuy: A digital platform revolutionising the way businesses trade metal products online.TW Metals: A stockholder and distributor of Nickel Alloy, Aluminium, Titanium, and Stainless Steel products in various forms.Comton Group: A recruitment agency specialising in the Metal, Manufacturing, and Engineering sectors.The Metal Guys Talk Business is created and produced by Comton Group.Contact us on our social media channels to discuss the podcast and recruitment solutions for your business. Social Media Accounts: Follow us on LinkedInTikTok: @comtonpete and @comtonmikeInstagram: @comtonpete and @comtonmike

    43 min
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About

Peter Comerford and Mike Bolton are The Metal Guys! They have worked in the metal sector for over 10 years, a huge global industry that produces more than a billion tonnes of material annually and affects all other industries and walks of life. They now run a successful recruitment and marketing company servicing the metal and engineering sectors, making them ideally placed to provide impartial, independent insight into the industry, sitting outside the hierarchy of the various stages of the industry from raw material to finished product. Under the moniker of The Metal Guys, the pair continue to gain insights from - and ask the difficult questions to - the decision makers and technical experts that you won't hear on any other podcast. If you produce, work with or supply metal, then tune in and join the conversation.

Information

  • Creator
    Comton Group
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022 The Metal Guys Talk Business
  • Show Website
    The Metal Guys Talk Business