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The Pierhouse Hotel and Seafood Restaurant at Port Appin, Argyll, has been named ‘Tourism and Hospitality Employer of the Year’ 2024 at the Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA).
The Highlands and Islands regional winners were announced at an awards ceremony and gala dinner at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness last Friday (4 October).
The ‘Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year’ category celebrates employers who have demonstrated “a real commitment to the welfare of their employees and for providing a supportive and inspiring work environment”.
This award also aims to highlight and celebrate employers who are showcasing tourism, hospitality and events as an exciting career path and inspiring the next generation.
In line with the Outlook 2030 strategy, businesses should support Scotland’s ambition to become a leading Fair Work Nation, and provide opportunities for development to their employees.
HITA winners will now proceed to the Scottish Thistle Awards national final in November to represent the region and compete with the best of the rest of the country.
Fiona McLean, general manager at The Pierhouse Hotel, said: “We’re really proud to have been recognised by our industry peers as ‘Tourism and Hospitality Employer of the Year’ 2024 at this year’s HITA awards.
“Our incredible team of 40 hospitality professionals work so hard to ensure our wee corner of Argyll gives the warmest of welcomes to all our guests, including the local Argyll community and visitors to the region.”
She added: “Here at The Pierhouse, we’re committed to providing a supportive and inspiring work environment to help everyone thrive and succeed in their hospitality career.”
Calum Ross, chairman of HITA, said: “Huge congratulations to everyone on what was a fantastic night for our tourism and hospitality community here in the Highlands and Islands.”
The Pierhouse restaurant, which has three silver stars, two AA rosettes and is one of only three Argyll restaurants to feature in the Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland 2024, is led by head chef Michael Leathley.
The Pierhouse is part of The Wee Hotel Company, which includes the Three Chimneys on the Isle of Skye.




























