INVERNESS Farmers Dairy has had a shop in Lochalsh Road for almost 30 years and its name then, as now, is synonymous with the best of service and top value prices.
At first the shop was basically an outlet for the dairy operation which was located behind the shop between Lochalsh Road and Telford Road. However, recent years have seen the shop develop out of all recognition, and anyone who has not been in the area for a while would be surprised to find such a smart mini-mart, with its wide range of foodstuffs, from cans, jars and frozen food to fresh fruit and vegetables, baking and fresh meat (which can also be ordered).
The story of Inverness Farmers Dairy goes back to 1912 when local farmers set up their own dairy in Waterloo Place. The Matheson family took the business over in the mid-1930s and the third generation of the family is still in charge today.
The dairy moved to Lochalsh Road in the early 1970s into the former Co-op premises, where they remained for many years. However, the depot moved to the Longman in the mid 1990s.
The relocation of the offices released a considerable amount of extra space which allowed the shop to really develop into its full potential. This meant that the premises had to be totally revamped. Internal walls were knocked down to produce the spacious shop area that you see today, more than three times the size it was previously. The shop managed to remain open while the work was carried out.
“Customers were so loyal throughout the refurbishments,” said Doreen Russell, “though sometimes Nora and I could hardly turn round.” Nora Robertson and Doreen are two of the longest serving members of the shop staff; the others are Colleen Stephen and Finlay Morrison – Finlay is the latest addition but nevertheless a well-kent face in South Kessock where he ran his mobile shop for many years.
Small general grocery stores have had a difficult time in recent years, and the competition from large supermarket chains has not made the situation any easier. However, those which have adapted to move with the times have survived and are prospering.
By joining the Nisa group of individual grocery shops, the Inverness Farmers Dairy is able to enjoy the buying power that larger chains have.
Now they stock over 2000 lines and all at competitive, good-value prices. Bargain offers are a regular feature, but the friendly good service is guaranteed.
“And if a customer wants something we haven't got, we will get it for them,” says Doreen.