STOATS has been confirmed as Scotland’s 1000th Living Wage-accredited employer.

The Scottish Government target was to reach 1000 accredited employers by autumn 2017.

Visiting the company’s Edinburgh headquarters during Living Wage Week, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon congratulated the company on gaining accreditation.

Stoats, which makes a range of oats-based products, employs 33 people. The company, founded in 2005, earned Living Wage accreditation shortly after moving to its new production facility three months ago.

Sturgeon said: “I am delighted that Scotland has reached this landmark during Living Wage Week. I congratulate Stoats on their commitment to demonstrate leadership in the business community by paying workers a fair, living wage.”

Tony Stone, managing director of Stoats, said: “Our staff are absolutely integral to our brand. We appreciate the hard work our team commits to produce 38,000 porridge oat bars by hand daily.”