Best Companies has awarded Heathcotes star status for its dedication to staff development as an integral aspect of its business growth.

The restaurant group has invested in its own chef’s academy and wine tasting courses. It also writes in-house newsletters, carries out league tabling and has a list of mystery diners to provide feedback on each restaurant in order to develop each outlet.

In addition, each restaurant has its say in the running of the business through monthly board meetings.

The chief executive of Best Companies, Jonathan Austin, said: “We set up more than seven years ago to identify companies that are doing things differently. Heathcotes are certainly doing this and as a direct result they are reaping the rewards.”

Heathcotes has grown from a village restaurant with four fulltime staff to a group of 11 restaurants employing more than 400 staff. Five further outlets are due to open this year.

Best Companies also researches and compiles The Sunday Times Best Companies to Work for lists. Details: www.heathcotes.co.uk

Photograph: Director Paul Heathcote and Jonathon Austin