Highlands jobs and tourism boost

Highland Coast Hotels has continued its growth across the North Highlands of Scotland with acquisition of The Tongue Hotel. It’s a remarkable story as the group led by chief executive Roddy Watt and chairman David Whiteford only launched in 2021.

They also recently bought the Plockton Inn, having previously acquired Kylesku Hotel and Newton Lodge in Unapool, the Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch and the Royal Marine Hotel in Brora, due to reopen in June after a major renovation project.

Existing employees at The Tongue Hotel will be positively impacted by the group’s new status as a Real Scottish Living Wage Employer. There will be wage increases to reflect this, alongside additional training and development opportunities.

Since its launch, Highland Coast Hotels has created over 40 new jobs and implemented community-first strategies which have benefited the region and led to exciting business opportunities for those living locally, as well as creating many tourism and hospitality careers.

Highland Coast Hotels’ Chairman, David Whiteford explains: “We are delighted to be acquiring The Tongue Hotel and building on the work of previous custodians of such an historic and unique hotel. I very much look forward to the Highland Coast team becoming part of the Tongue community as we place even further emphasis on investing back into the local economy by creating more careers and business opportunities in the area.

“We are acutely aware that the hotel is held in great affection by both guests and the close-knit local community, and this is a responsibility we take very seriously as we develop our plans for the years to come. We are grateful for the continued support of the Scottish National Investment Bank which helped make the acquisition possible.”

David and Lorraine Hook, departing owners of The Tongue Hotel, say: “We have had a wonderful 15 years at The Tongue Hotel and are incredibly proud of everything we achieved, however it’s now time for us to pass the baton onto Highland Coast Hotels. Thank you to those who have supported us, from our always enthusiastic team to loyal guests and the local community in Tongue.”