From Bicycle to Business: How One Entrepreneur Transformed a Phone Box into a Craft Beer Haven

Meet Saul Press, an inspiring entrepreneur who turned a simple idea into a thriving business, overcoming challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. Starting out with just a bike, he began selling surplus draught beer from breweries struggling to find customers due to lockdowns. With support from Start-Up Loans, he secured funding that allowed him to enhance his operation with draught taps and refrigeration, leading to the creation of Beer Hatch in Norwich.

Initially, Saul’s venture began as a delivery service, where he would cycle around delivering kegs of unique craft beers directly to customers, perfectly capturing the essence of convenience and local support during difficult times. Wanting to innovate beyond typical take-away offerings, he saw a niche for delivering fresh draught beer to those unable to visit pubs. His vision came to life in August 2022, when he opened what was dubbed the UK’s smallest off-licence within a bright red telephone box located in Tombland. This quirky setup quickly became a hit, showcasing over 50 craft beers and becoming a local hub for beer enthusiasts.

Following the success of the phone box venture, Saul took a big step in 2023 by launching his own dedicated shop, claiming that Norwich’s beer scene is truly unmatched. Now, as an official start-up ambassador, Saul attributes his progress to not just the financial backing but the mentoring and guidance he received along the way. He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seize opportunities and reminds them that even the most extraordinary journeys start from just an idea. Saul Press now stands among respected business figures, eager to share his experiences and support others on their entrepreneurial paths.