CONNAGE HIGHLAND Dairy, based at Ardersier near Inverness, has this week opened its brand new ‘Connage Express’ milk vending machine operation.

Selling its own organic milk – both pre-bottled and also for self-service customer refills – is new for the business, which is better known for its range of multi-award-winning organic cheeses.

But now, open from 7am until 7pm, seven days a week, and accepting cash as well as cards, the vending machines will not only sell Connage's own milk and cheeses, but also products from other local businesses such as eggs and bacon. Milk customers can buy a pre-filled bottle of milk or purchase a one-litre bottle to refill themselves each time they return.

Owner Jill Clark said: “Whilst many customers still come into The Cheese Room where we stock a vast range of cheeses and other items, and many of our customers from further afield shop online, many people just want to come to a vending machine and take something away quickly. The fact that the Connage Express is open for longer hours than the shop also fits around people’s busy lives.

“During our first few days of opening we have seen a fantastic flow of cars coming along and customers seemed to be really enjoying the experience. The range of items is large enough that everybody can find something that they will enjoy and I think that people enjoy getting local, quality products in an easy and efficient way.”

Visit www.connage.co.uk to find out more.