Autobrew, the UK's first self-service bar and cafe located in Birmingham's Custard Factory, has announced its sudden closure after five years of operation. The bar, known for its unique concept of allowing customers to pour their own pints, shared the news on social media on June 5, citing a range of economic pressures.
Owner Cites Industry Challenges
In a heartfelt statement, owner Sean Longe explained that the decision came after tough meetings and a realistic assessment of the business's sustainability. He pointed to rising costs, including National Insurance, energy bills, VAT, and business rates, as factors that made continued trading impossible. Longe described the hospitality sector as facing a constant uphill battle and a fight for survival.
A Message to Customers and Staff
The statement expressed gratitude to customers and staff, saying, "Your support will not be forgotten. You've left us with some great memories and we've made some genuine friendships." Longe also paid tribute to other small business owners, calling them "modern day warriors" and urged customers to support local businesses facing similar issues.
A Unique Venue in Digbeth
Autobrew was a cozy spot in the Custard Factory, known for its mural of The Streets frontman Mike Skinner. It offered a self-service experience where customers could pour their own pints from a range of beers, alongside a well-stocked fridge with alcoholic and alcohol-free options. The closure marks the end of a five-year journey that Longe described as "a dream come true" and "an absolute blast."
