We’re Going to Be on TV: Behind the Scenes on DIY SOS UK Christmas: Gladiator Special

We’re very excited to announce that Century Containers will be featured on an upcoming DIY SOS UK Christmas: Gladiator Special — a festive TV episode of the iconic BBC renovation series. This isn’t just a brief cameo: our team and our work with bespoke containers were extensively involved in the build and filming process.

For over two decades, DIY SOS has been one of the UK’s best-loved renovation and community build programmes, led by presenter Nick Knowles and his team of skilled tradespeople and volunteers. The show brings communities together to deliver transformational builds, often in support of families and organisations in need

This year’s Christmas: Gladiator Special is set to be an extra-special edition, combining the hands-on build ethos of DIY SOS with a festive twist and broad TV appeal. While full broadcast details are being finalised, we understand the Christmas specials traditionally air across the holiday period on BBC One and attract a wide family audience.

What We Supplied

As part of our involvement, we proudly supplied two bespoke 20ft High Cube containers, specially converted to meet the needs of the project. These units were built at our facility and delivered ready to perform on site:

• 20ft High Cube One-Trip Containers — chosen for extra internal headroom and practicality.
• Fully customised internal fit-outs suitable for the programme’s use cases.
• Built for durability and repeated use in challenging site conditions.

These containers weren’t just delivered — they formed part of real works captured during filming, and our team worked alongside the DIY SOS crew throughout the build.

On Set and Behind the Scenes

During filming, our facilities also served as a location for interviews and logistics:

• The show’s presenter visited our depot for interviews and to view the container conversions first-hand.
• Members of the DIY SOS production team and build crew interacted with our team as part of the shoot.
• Our involvement wasn’t limited to supply: we contributed to discussions and practical considerations during the build sequence captured on camera.

It was an exciting opportunity to see a major TV production in action, and to contribute to a project that celebrates practical skills, collaboration, and community impact.

What to Watch For

The Christmas special promises:

• The signature DIY SOS build narrative — big ideas, tight deadlines, and creative problem-solving
• Festive spirit and feel-good moments
• A chance to see our container conversions in action on national television

Stay tuned for the official screening date. When the broadcast date and time are confirmed, we’ll share them so you can watch the episode and see our work featured on screen.

Thank you to the DIY SOS team for inviting us to be part of this project, and to everyone on our team who contributed to making it possible. We look forward to seeing it on TV and sharing the moment with our customers, partners, and community.

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