Ice-cream brand Mackie's of Scotland has ventured out of frozen to launch a range of premium crisps.

Mackie's will produce the crisps in partnership with potato grower Taypack and they will be officially launched at the Royal Highland Show at the end of June. The range, which is available in 40g and 150g bags, will include sea salt; mature Cheddar & onion; and sea salt & vinegar variants, with limited edition flavours set to follow.

Competing against Walkers' Red Sky, Tyrrells Crisps and Burt's Chips was an ambitious step, admitted MD Kirstin Mackie, but a welcome challenge. "This is a market that is growing, does not have a Scottish-based player, and will benefit from Mackie's experience in indulgent treats."

She claimed it was too early to confirm listings, but revealed Mackie's was targeting both independents and multiples. A marketing and PR campaign will kick off in July.