Fresh milk and milkshakes are now available straight from the farm, thanks to a new vending machine in North Yorkshire.
Harrogate food hall Fodder has become the first retail outlet in the county hire to introduce the machine, which dispenses cow’s milk and flavoured milkshakes from Milk from the Hills. Customers can purchase fresh, gently pasteurised milk and milkshakes using reusable glass bottles that can be washed and refilled on future visits.
Four regular milkshake flavours—chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, and banana—are always available, along with two rotating weekly specials. Vanessa Pitt, general manager at Fodder, said: “Our link up with Milk from the Hills is a really exciting ‘first’ in the Harrogate area which adds a whole new dimension to a visit to Fodder.
“It also demonstrates just how passionate we are about showcasing innovative and forward-thinking Yorkshire suppliers. “The milk and milkshakes are absolutely delicious, so fresh, and we know our customers will love them.”
The milk is non-homogenised and comes directly from the Hill family farm in Hoylandswaine, near Barnsley, where four generations have farmed using a blend of traditional practices and modern technology. Customers using the vending machine can also watch a live ‘cow cam’ feed of the farm’s robotic Lely A4 milking parlour. The partnership follows Milk from the Hills’ popular appearance at the Great Yorkshire Show, organised by Fodder’s owners, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.
James Hill, managing director at Milk from the Hills, said: “We were blown away by the reception we received at the Great Yorkshire Show, which was recognised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society who invited us to become part of their Food Hall.
“We are proud to be joining a team who champion and support local farmers.” Fodder works with more than 400 Yorkshire suppliers, and all profits support the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s work to promote farming and the countryside. The milk vending machine is the latest addition to Fodder following a major refurbishment earlier this year.