A Lochaber commercial laundry is planning to add to its workforce after a £268,000 expansion.
MacKleeners, of Corpach, has installed a new industrial iron to help meet demand from tourist accommodation providers and other customers.
The firm, which started out as a coin-operated launderette on Fort William High Street before expanding into the commercial sector with pressing equipment, is expected to add three more staff to the workforce of around a dozen people it employs.
It has also invested in a system which allows up to 85% of the water it uses at its Annat Industrial Estate premises to be recycled.
The company received support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Highland Council’s Business Gateway and Highland Opportunity loan fund for the expansion.
Owner Robert Mason, who three years ago took over the business his parents founded in 1991, said: “We are very proud of our company’s track record of growth over the years.
“This is in no small part down to the hard work of our employees, most of whom have been with the company for 15 years or more, and the loyalty of our customers.
“It is great to have secured support from HIE, Highland Opportunity and Business Gateway Highland, which is enabling us to take things to the next stage. We look forward to increasing our contribution to the local economy and providing more employment opportunities.”
HIE account manager Elaine Jones said: “MacKleeners is an important part of the supply chain for the growing tourism, food and drink and manufacturing sectors, not just in Lochaber but further afield.”