Farmers say vending machines are helping them sell their produce directly to the public and be “a bit more in control” of their business.
Tom Pemberton, who runs a dairy farm in Lancashire, said social media videos about his self-service machines were “making milk sexy again” and added that they have also allowed him to educate people on where their milk comes from.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) said more farmers were using “innovative ways” to sell their produce.
Spokesman Adam Briggs said diversifying allowed farmers to “seek new markets and underpin the profitability of their business”.
Pemberton, a fifth-generation farmer, has 150 milking cows on his farm in Lytham St Annes.
Speaking in a field surrounded by his very friendly herd, he said he initially started with vending machines in 2016 before setting up a purpose-built parlour last year.
He said one of the key benefits was being able to leave it open 24/7.
“We get more customers after 17:00 BST than before which is mad to even think about,” Pemberton revealed.
“It’s quite big for a farm to open the doors for everyone to come and all through the night, but everyone is really, really respectful.”