The Rag Trade
1977 · Comedy · 2 Seasons · 22 Episodes ·
Follows the humorous struggles of workers in a London clothing factory.
E11. Stay In StrikeFenner lands a contract to supply a German businessman with new garments. Unfortunately he wants to see the workforce in action before he confirms the order!E22. The SampleOverjoyed at securing an exclusive Italian design, Fenner and Tony are slightly perturbed to find all the instructions are in ItalianE33. Fixing The RateFenner is appalled to find that although productivity is down, pay rates are going up! He tries to institute a Time and Motion study, but that doesn't find favour with the work forceE44. The Lunch ProblemPaddy holds a special meeting to discuss the extortionate cost of lunch; the general feeling is that Fenner should pay them a lunch allowance. funnily enough, Fenner disagreesE55. The Export OrderFenner manages to land an export order to a firm in New York. The catch is that they must be of a certain quality and out the door by 4pmE66. The Italian LineFenner upsets the status quo by bringing in an Italian to supervise a new line of designs. Despite initial misgivings the workforce suddenly warm to him when they find out he's drop dead gorgeousE77. Olive's BabyEveryone's concerned when Olive turns up late for work - which soon turns to astonishment when the realise she's brought her baby with herE88. The Wedding DressFenner becomes frantic then Mrs. Fenner starts doing stocktaking. Despite her best intentions, it's not long before she and Paddy are at loggerheadsE99. The SidelineA new line of fur garments causes consternation among the workforce - until they figure out they can make toy pandas from the offcutsE1010. The Guvnor's WifeThe girls are up in arms when Mrs. Fenner puts in a special order for a new outfit, and Fenner is caught in the middle when the inevitable ructions startE1111. The New GirlA new line in negligees prompts Fenner to bring in a new production supervisor and self-styled "business efficiency expert". Her goal - to increase the girls' efficiency.E1212. The BetGambling fever strikes the workforce when they discover that a horse called Paddy is running that afternoon at Aintree racecourseE1313. The AccidentWhen Mabel pricks her finger on a broken needle - and Kathy cuts her finger on the first aid box - Paddy holds Fenner to account for failing to prevent an industrial accident.E1414. The New BrotherFenner employs a new embroiderer to add finesse to some of the designs. It doesn't take long for Paddy to figure out the new recruit is far too productive, and she tries to get her to sign up to the union.E1515. Christmas RushChristmas brings down productivity no end, much to Fenners chagrin. Things get much worse when he realises that he hasn't bought his wife a Christmas present.
