Workerbee Signs Co-Production Deal with Made in Manchester

Workerbee, a Banijay UK company, has signed a first-look deal with Made in Manchester to generate new factual content ideas.

The two companies will work closely together and delve into Made in Manchester’s catalog of radio documentaries and podcasts with the aim of developing projects for television and radio.

Established in 2005, Made in Manchester has produced hundreds of documentaries across a wide range of genres, including history, investigative, lifestyle, social affairs, music and entertainment. It also produces drama, comedy and panel shows. Credits in the past year include The Truth About Jazz with Clive Myrie (World Service), Ukraine’s Nuclear Gamble (Radio 4/World Service), The Other Side of Death Row (World Service), The Day I Met The Queen (5Live) and Ricky Wilson’s Rock and Roll Classics (Radio 2). The company produces two hit podcasts as well: Distinct Nostalgia and Bisexual Brunch.

“Made in Manchester have a treasure trove of award-winning content that would work brilliantly on television,” said Rick Murray, CEO of Workerbee. “This is an exciting partnership, and I’m looking forward to working with Ashley and the team as we develop and expand our premium factual offering. This co-pro deal marks the first in a small number of key creative partnerships we are planning that will help Workerbee Films develop its next generation of world-class projects.”

Ashley Byrne, creative director of Made in Manchester, added, “As we enter our 18th year, the Made in Manchester team is delighted and excited to be working with Workerbee Group. Both companies have a rich heritage in developing compelling ideas for broadcast in different mediums and across a variety of genres, and our combined efforts will lead to the production of even more popular and award-winning programs. Radio and TV production continues to thrive, and we hope our partnership will unleash the talents of even more creative people in the North of England.”