Hot on the heels of announcing the launch date for Tower Bridge Collective, Blend Family has revealed plans for their next food hall venture. Alfred Works, a bold reinvention of the historic Custard Factory site in Digbeth. Named after Alfred Bird, the chemist and inventor behind custard powder, this space pays tribute to Birmingham’s industrial legacy while carving out space for contemporary culture, food, and fashion.
Set in one of the city’s most exciting and up-and-coming districts, Alfred Works will span over 17,500 sq. ft of indoor space, featuring a vibrant indoor food hall with 15 kitchens, a large outdoor courtyard, immersive social gaming, and a kids’ area with a sandpit. Outside, just across the River Rea, an additional 10,000 sq. ft of indoor-outdoor events space, designed to bring warmth, play, and community into every corner of the experience.
The site will also house Blend Family’s second Blend Culinary Foundation Kitchen, continuing their mission to battle growing food poverty. The food hall will also welcome the third location of The Cream Store, a leading independent retailer known for its curated mix of clothing and lifestyle items with a community-led ethos.
Matt Bigland, founder of Blend Family, stated, “Alfred Works is built for Birmingham. By the people, for the people. It’s a space where kids can play, friends can gather, and stories can be shared over a pint or a plate. We’re building more than a food hall. We’re building a home.”
With multiple wins at the British Street Food Awards and features in National Geographic, Blend Family has earned national recognition for their ability to turn hospitality spaces into cultural destinations. Alfred Works will continue that legacy, bringing the same energy, ambition, and independent spirit that has defined their halls in Sheffield, Salford Quays, and London.
From independent Food Partners to fashion, sport and events, Alfred Works is designed to be more than just a destination. It will be a platform for collaboration, celebration, and cultural exchange. The announcement marks another bold step in Blend family’s rapid expansion, with Birmingham now firmly on the map.
Opening date to be announced soon.