Scotmid Co-op has opened its state-of-the-art new eco-friendly store beside Loch Ness in the heart of the Highlands.

The 4,500sq ft store, which is part of a five-unit complex in Drumnadrochit, features refrigeration controlled by a central plant and run on a natural refrigerant (CO2) rather than polluting HFCs.

Local resident and Scotmid’s North regional committee member Angus Maclean cut the ribbon to mark the official opening on Friday 25 January.

A quartet of pipers piped in the new customers through the doors with Inverness Caledonian Thistle mascot, Lionel Nessie, also in attendance to high-five children and pose for images. Customers also received goody bags containing groceries.

The store boasts a new tailored architectural structure and spacious lay-out, offering an enhanced shopping experience

Scotmid’s head of food, Kevin Plant, said: “We’re incredibly excited about opening this new store at Drumnadrochit – it looks fantastic and we’re certain local people will enjoy what’s on offer.

“We’ve expanded all of our ranges in-store and we believe our members and customers will be really impressed with the new look and improved offering available.”

Scotmid’s head of property and development, Maurissa Fergusson, added: “The launch of this store represents another milestone for us in providing convenience stores to match the demands of an ever-changing marketplace and the expectations of our valued members and customer base.

“The store design introduced here will completely modernise our customers’ shopping experience and we believe these changes represent the beginning of the future for Scotmid.”