AutoBrew is the UK's first self-service bar and café. The Gibb Street business' owner and director Sean reveals more about this innovative spot for a drink.
Introduce yourself…name, job title, & the company you work for.
I'm Sean Longe and I'm the founder of AutoBrew, which can be found on Gibb Street at the Custard Factory.
In a nutshell, what do you do?
We are the UK's first self-service bar & café! Visitors to my bar can unleash their inner brewmaster at our Self-Service Tap Wall – which boasts recommended beers, ales, lagers, sours, ciders, or stouts on tap. The bar also offers a pretty extensive selection of cocktails, wines, spirits, and soft drinks to satisfy every taste.
How long have you been working in Digbeth?
6 years in Digbeth…and I wouldn't have it any other way! From working at the brilliant Mockingbird Cinema for 3.5 years, and then being on this exciting journey with AutoBrew for the past 2.5 years, Digbeth has definitely become a massive part of my life.
What makes your business so special?
Forget queuing at a bar, just pour yourself a beverage or two here at AutoBrew! You’re in complete charge of pouring your own pint. You can’t do that in Albert Schloss!
Forget queuing at a bar, just pour yourself a beverage or two here at AutoBrew! You’re in complete charge of pouring your own pint.
What do you like most about working in Birmingham’s Creative Quarter?
Digbeth is like a magnet for creative folks who march to the beat of their own drum. You never know who you might bump into here – we’ve even had celebs like Sophie Turner and Serge Pizzorno pop in for a drink. But I think people here are friendly and always down to try something new and embrace the unexpected. I love that energy, it's what makes Digbeth such a fun and inspiring place to be.
Where do you normally go for lunch in B9?
When we're swamped, the trusty microwave is a lifesaver! But for those times we can escape, Baked In Brick's pizzas across the street are chef's kiss.
Do you have a recommendation for the best thing to do in Digbeth outside of work?
You’ve gotta check out the Red Brick Market on Floodgate Street! It's this hidden gem jam-packed with independent stalls, all run by super-talented Brummie makers with some seriously cool stuff on offer that you won’t find anywhere else. I love going there for a little nosey.
You’ve gotta check out the Red Brick Market on Floodgate Street!
What are you currently working on?
Expect more events from us and we’re also adding taps that won’t be just beer!