A revamped M&S café has opened at a shopping centre – but some customers are unhappy about its self-service machines.

Launched with special guest, Percy Pig, the cafe at Hempstead Valley, in Gillingham, reopened this morning.

An M&S spokesperson said:“We’re really excited to open our new look M&S Café at Hempstead Valley today.

"Our new speedy and seamless digital ordering gives customers the choice of placing their orders in seconds at their table via their smartphone, or by using our new digital kiosks.

"And our great team of M&S colleagues are always on hand to deliver table service, answer any questions and help customers to place their orders.

“Our new 180-seat M&S Café is one of the first in the country with this award-winning design and offers customers in Hempstead Valley table service in a super stylish space to eat, drink and relax, with freshly prepared M&S Food, barista made hot drinks and comfy soft lounge seating.

"And there’s a whole host of M&S Café favourites on the menu, including Magic Coffee®, the hottest new style of coffee to reach the UK since the Flat White and exclusive to M&S Cafés, and our all new Brunch Menu, with favourites like eggs benedict, eggs royale and our all day breakfast wrap

“The new café also has its own M&S Slushee machine, so customers can try our fruity Percy Pig Slushee, which is made with real fruit juice and no added sugar, artificial colours or flavourings. And shoppers can also try out the Kids’ Munch Menu with a main, snack and side – with choices including pancakes, pizza and jackets. Plus, with Easter holidays starting next week, Kids Eat Free when parents or carers spend £5 or more.”

However it isn't good news for all.

One customer commented on social media saying the new café takes payments by a self-service machine – something some older shoppers might not be comfortable with.

They said on Facebook: "Real shame they've not catered for the OAPs who are the majority of their customers.

"They don't take cash and it's all done on self-service machines now, can't order at the counter.

"My poor nan has been going here every day for 20-odd years and now she can't go as she's far too old to understand self service.

"The café itself looks nice but shame they've made it difficult for its users."

However, M&S claims the changes will help serve customers quicker.

In response to the commenter, a spokesman replied: "We have gone self service, but that does help us to be able to get orders out to our customers quicker.

"We would love for your nan to still come and join us and not let the self-service machines deter her from joining us in store as we will have staff by our machines to help all our customers with ordering or any queries they have.

"Our ordering process is on screens but we will have staff to assist with those that need help.

"Our customers that are eating in will be able to go to a table of their choice and we will bring them their order.

"So it’s not completely self service, more self ordering with table service. This will allow staff to still be able to have a chat with our customers."