Alderney entrepreneur and consultant Abbie Grey has launched Brew & Build, a month-long programme of pop-up business events bringing together entrepreneurs, remote workers, aspiring founders and the wider community.
Hosted throughout June at The Blonde Hedgehog, the programme delivered 11 community events, including a panel discussion, business stand-ups, blue sky thinking session on the future of Alderney, a breakfast forum and even pottery painting.
The aim was simple: create an informal space where people could share ideas, learn from one another and build meaningful connections.
Abbie Grey (pictured), a consultant at Open Alderney and founder of several ventures, said the idea was inspired by her own relocation to Alderney earlier this year: “I arrived during winter, just after a big storm for the island. It didn’t take long to realise that what makes Alderney special isn’t just the island itself – it’s the people who call it home”.
Throughout the month, recurring themes emerged. While business owners acknowledged the realities of operating on a small island – from seasonal demand and boat deliveries to staffing and connectivity – they also highlighted the unique advantages of Alderney. Strong relationships, trust, community support and a
willingness to collaborate were repeatedly identified as the island’s greatest commercial assets.
Several attendees remarked that success on Alderney depends less on scale and more on becoming part of the community.
“One thing that really stood out was that the strongest businesses don’t just provide a product or service – they create a sense of belonging,” Abbie continued. “On Alderney, reputation matters, authenticity matters, and people genuinely want to see one another succeed.”
Following positive feedback and strong attendance, Brew & Build is set to return this autumn, with interest also being expressed from elsewhere in the Channel Islands, other island communities and rural parts of the UK.
“Following the success of the first series, plans are already underway for an autumn edition of Brew & Build in Alderney,” Grey said. “Staying true to its pop-up format, the initiative will continue to partner with different local venues while also exploring opportunities to take the concept beyond the island.”
