The Pop Factory

The Pop Factory (TPF) is a music and media complex located in Porth, Rhondda, South Wales. It was originally a converted soft drinks factory that had previously belonged to the "Welsh Hills" brand, which later became "Corona." The venue is situated in the Thomas and Evans building, also owned by Bronwydd House and Porth Park. Officially opened in 2000 by Tom Jones, who smashed a bottle of dandelion and burdock against its walls, The Pop Factory gained prominence through a weekly TV show broadcast on BBC1 Wales and later HTV/ITV Wales. Hosted by Steve Jones and Liz Fuller, the show featured Welsh bands such as Feeder, Stereophonics, Lostprophets, Kosheen, and The Kennedy Soundtrack, as well as mainstream acts like Sophie Ellis-Bextor and S Club 7. A Welsh language version of the show, *Sesiwn Hwyr*, aired on S4C. The TV series ended in 2008 with no official reason provided.

The Pop Factory also served as the studio for musical entrepreneur Rob Reed, known for his work with Magenta. In 2011, the site was acquired by Valleys Kids and repurposed for offices, live venues, and other uses.

From 2003 to 2007, The Pop Factory hosted annual awards focusing on the Welsh music scene. Notable winners included Manic Street Preachers (Best Welsh Band in 2007), Stereophonics (Best Album in 2007), Lostprophets (Best Live Act and Best Welsh Band in 2006), and Tom Jones (Outstanding Contribution to Music in 2005). The awards were discontinued after 2007.