Edinburgh Airport has a unique new addition: the world’s first shortbread vending machine.
Passengers can take a digital quiz to choose a Walkers Shortbread product, either as a gift or for themselves, and digital displays feature some of Scotland’s iconic landmarks, letting users learn the story of the 125-year-old brand.
A Walkers spokesman said: “The Scottish brand has partnered with leading UK travel retailer World Duty Free, which is run by global travel experience company Avolta, and unveiled the property in May.”
read more – Shocked Edinburgh woman lifts doormat to find monster toad underneath
read more – Plans for new Edinburgh Tesco store in Leith go ahead despite previous opposition
“This ‘first-of-its-kind’ interactive machine welcomes visitors into ‘The World of Walkers’ where they can learn about the history of the 125-year-old brand, enjoy complimentary shortbread fingers and be recommended products to buy from World Duty Free as they pass by.”
“Walker’s Shortbread is Edinburgh Airport’s most popular confectionery brand and is the only confectionery brand with its own dedicated space in the newly refurbished World Duty Free store at Scotland’s busiest airport, which is expected to welcome 15 million passengers in 2024.”
“The vending machine asks passengers to complete a digital quiz to help them find the perfect Walkers product for any occasion, whether it’s to give as a gift, share with family and friends or just enjoy, and then takes travellers on a journey to the Scottish Highlands, the home of Walkers Shortbread where our world-famous product is made.”
Apply Edinburgh Live Newsletter debt Or get more headlines delivered straight to your inbox
Users will also find a recipe for the hugely popular shortbread, which requires just four ingredients and has remained unchanged for over a century since it was created by Joseph Walker.
Nicky Walker, managing director of Walkers Shortbread, said: “As a family-run business, we’re thrilled to be launching the world’s first shortbread vending machine.”
“Provenance and heritage are incredibly important to our brand and are one of the reasons why our products are so popular around the world. Offering a traditional Scottish product and 125-year-old brand in an experiential sampling format is a great way to appeal to today’s consumer habits and is ideal for anyone unsure of which product to choose.”
participate Edinburgh Live Whatsapp Community Get the latest news straight to your message.
“In 2022, our export revenues increased by almost 10 percent – a true testament to the love people have for our products, with our GTR products now sold in over 30 markets. Partnering with World Duty Free to create this installation will enable us to reach a global audience whilst continuing our mission to share the joy of shortbread.”
Gail Taylor, chief commercial officer (non-aviation) at Edinburgh Airport, said: “Every year millions of people from all over the world come to experience the best that Scotland has to offer and what better way to say goodbye to them than with the airport’s fantastic hospitality.”
“We look forward to seeing these innovative shortbread vending machines installed at airports and seeing people returning home with a lasting taste of Scotland.”