Founded in Inverness in 1997, the firm has built a reputation for delivering high-quality architecture across the Highlands and Orkney. In 2019, it expanded its regional presence with the opening of a second office in Thurso, reinforcing its dedication to serving communities throughout the north of Scotland.

Director Vicky Hazell said: “All successful businesses evolve, and the EOT model is particularly well-suited to creative organisations like ours. Our professional team is deeply invested in the success of the practice, and employee ownership strengthens that connection.”

Employee owned trusts were introduced by the UK government in 2014 to encourage employee participation in business ownership. Under this model, companies are owned by a trust representing the employees, with trustees elected by staff members. The John Lewis Partnership remains one of the most recognised examples of this structure.

Scotland is seeing a surge in employee-owned enterprises, with over 2,500 across the UK and a national ambition to reach 500 in Scotland by 2030. Inverness is already home to two of Scotland’s largest employee-owned firms – Highland Fuels and Carlton Bingo – alongside other notable Highland-based EOTs such as Aquascot, Swanson Fruit, Caley Timber, and Dynam. 

“This change means our staff have a real stake in our success and will benefit directly as we continue to thrive,” Ms Hazell added. “While our commitment to delivering a high quality service remains unchanged, the added benefits of community impact, staff satisfaction, and shared success make this a powerful investment – for us and for our clients.”

HRI Munro Architecture’s move to employee ownership reflects a broader trend of purpose-driven business models that prioritise long-term resilience, collaboration, and community value.