Inverness-based Highland Fuels said it has successfully completed the transfer of a majority number of shares of the company to its employees.

“We operate a fleet of over 45 road tankers, own 16 petrol stations and are supported by over 250 employees spread between our most southerly office located in Manchester to our most northerly office based in Lerwick, Shetland,” said Highland Fuels.

“Chairman and owner, George Shand, has been considering the future of the company and has always been mindful of the loyalty of the staff and the company’s roots in the north of Scotland.”

Stand said: “We’re proud of being different. We’re a Highland based company with a very wide reach. We live our values.”

Stand previously led a management buyout of Highland Fuels in 2001.

Managing Director Stephen Rhodes said: “Employee ownership is perfect for us. It truly enables every single employee to benefit from the company’s advancement and provides the right platform for us to realise a positive culture, high engagement and great performances as we progress to the future”.