Greggs has launched its first self-service Express unit as it looks to offer customers more convenience and speed in high-footfall travel locations.

The food-to-go giant opened the first Greggs Express this month at an MFG petrol forecourt outside Glasgow Airport, operated by franchise partner Motor Fuel Group.

The compact unit allows customers to serve themselves from a range of Greggs products, including savoury bakes, sweet treats and Fairtrade hot drinks.

The trial will assess customer behaviour and response to the new format, with a small number of additional units set to open across MFG-operated travel hubs over the coming months.

Greggs property director Tony Rowson said the format had been created to improve the customer experience by focusing on “convenience and speed”.

“The units will allow customers to grab their favourite bake or serve coffee themselves, ideal for customers on the move,” he said.

“Working with MFG, the trial will help us understand how this format can support our growth ambitions alongside our broader estate growth plans, while continuing to deliver the great-tasting food and value our customers expect.”

The move marks the latest format innovation from Greggs as it looks to reach more customers in locations where a traditional shop may not be suitable.

It follows the launch of its Bitesize Greggs format in November, which is designed for high-footfall sites where space is limited. Three Bitesize shops are currently open as the retailer continues to trial the concept.