Ross Outdoors Ltd, the outdoor activity and climbing shop in Nairn, has been named a "Centre of Excellence" by the world famous Swiss army knife manufacturer Victorinox. 

The award recognises stockists who offer an excellent range of products, together with the highest level of product knowledge and customer advice.

All Victorinox stockists are considered for the award, but only the top 50 in the UK will be successful in achieving the title "Centre of Excellence".  The majority of these awards have, so far, been attained by larger multi-site companies.

The representative for Scotland was so impressed by Ross Outdoors Ltd that he made a personal recommendation on their behalf which resulted in receipt of the award. 

Andy Wigg, business development manager for Burton McCall, which represents Victorinox and Mag-Lite commented: "Ross Outdoors must be commended for the extensive range of products available along with the quality of their displays and level of customer service."

David Ross opened Ross Outdoors in March 2001, with business start-up assistance from Inverness and Nairn Enterprise (INE), after attending a pre-start course run by the local enterprise company.

"I am thrilled to receive this accolade," said David. "We always aim to offer our customers the widest choice of products possible across a number of ranges.

"I am always happy to spend time discussing various products with customers as I believe firmly in the importance of providing up-to-date advice and information to ensure that they can make a well informed choice appropriate to their needs. 

"For Ross Outdoors to receive this award confirms that if you set high standards you can compete with, and perhaps exceed, the service offered by larger, more established companies."