A Loch Ness-based catering company is toasting success this week after receiving two national accolades recognising quality of service and business acumen.

The Loch Ness Coffee company received Investors in People (IiP) on March 26th and in the same month gained "Hospitality Assured" status which recognises exceptional standards in hospitality.

IiP is a nationwide initiative that encourages businesses to make use of their key asset - their staff- by developing skills in line with business objectives.

The Loch Ness Coffee company was originally formed in 1999 by Drumnadrochit duo Fraser Campbell and Willie Cameron to sell bagged coffee to outlets across the UK.  The business venture expanded late last year winning a major contract to provide catering for Historic Scotland at Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness. The partnership has a wealth of catering experience having run the Drumnadrochit Hotel for over 12 years.

Company director Fraser Campbell said: "We are delighted to receive recognition for the high standards we have set for the company. The IiP award was a major factor in gaining the contract for Historic Scotland. We only set up the catering side of this business last year and we have expanded quickly thanks in part to the business and staff development plan laid out in the IiP programme. "

IiP manager for Inverness and Nairn Enterprise, Stephen Wells said: "This company has gone from strength to strength using the available advice and support to maximise business and staff development. They have demonstrated the benefits of a firm commitment to high standards of customer care, staff training and long-term business planning."
The Loch Ness Coffee company has also been put forward for this years national training awards.