Tennent’s water cooler rewards travellers’ banter

IT MAY look like an everyday water cooler, but this machine is harbouring a secret. Created by Tennent’s Lager, the hi-tech cooler engages in conversation with passengers travelling through Glasgow Airport, and tests the quality of their banter.

Craig McGill and wife Zoe were the first to test their chat with the 'water cooler'. Picture: Business Wire

If the machine decides that travellers’ ‘patter is watter’ then they are served a glass of water.

However, if the water cooler is impressed with the efforts then the passenger is rewarded with a pint of Tennent’s.

A video shows intrigued passers-by peering in at the machine, and activating it with their voice. The machine then asks them to do a Highland jig, perform a Proclaimers number or repeat a stock Glaswegian phrase in return for a beer - or glass of water.

Craig McGill and wife Zoe were the first to test their chat with the 'water cooler'. Picture: Business Wire

Jane Cannon, spokeswoman for Tennent’s Lager, said: “We wanted to introduce international visitors to the real spirit of Glasgow; lots of chat, lots of humour and never too serious.

“The cooler is a great way for visitors to discover the concept of banter and for locals to brush up on their chat.”

The Tennent’s Water Cooler will be moving to The Dram on Woodlands Road on July 27th until the 28th, before arriving at the Clockwork bar on Old Cathcart Road (July 29&30) and will finish its brief tour of Glasgow in the Raven on the city’s Renfield Street from August 1st to 3rd.