Auchrannie celebrates
The Auchrannie Resort is celebrating 30 years of welcoming visitors, having expanded beyond all expectation since it was bought back into business in 1988, writes Colin Smeeton.
Having originally opened as a traditional 12-bedroom guest house, the business has now grown to comprise 85 bedrooms, 30 luxury lodges and seven couples retreats – capable of accommodating up to 425 guests each night.
As the business has developed it has been continually enhanced with the addition of two leisure centres, both with swimming pools, three distinct restaurants, a destination spa, outdoor adventure centre and a children’s playbarn.
As well as 2018 marking the 30th year of business, it has also been the year the business completed the transition to employee ownership, and in April become an accredited living wage employer. Auchrannie now employs more than 160 staff, with an annual turnover of almost £8 million.
Co-founder and managing director Linda Johnston said: ‘When we first opened in 1988, I don’t think anyone imaged we would be where we are today. What has been achieved is truly outstanding and a result of the huge amount of work that has been put in over the past 30 years.
‘Now is a good time to again thank again everyone who has played a part in making Auchrannie what it is; employees, suppliers, the community and, of course, our guests – each one of whom has helped us evolve.’