London Marathon Events (LME) has acquired Caledonian Concepts and Loch Ness Marathon Ltd, taking the reins of some of Scotland’s most iconic running and cycling events in Inverness and the Loch Ness area.
Founded in 2006 by Malcolm and Caroline Sutherland, Caledonian Concepts has drawn thousands of participants to the Loch Ness Marathon, Etape Loch Ness, and the Inverness Half Marathon, and has raised an estimated £14.5 million for charities in the Highlands and across the UK.
Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, commending the Sutherlands and their team for creating “fantastic events in a stunning setting” that build on the spirit of sport, local community, and charitable support.
Brasher affirmed that LME is committed to respecting the events’ unique feel and community ties, promising to “build on all they have done” to keep inspiring people of all ages to stay active and engage with the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.
Malcolm Sutherland reflected on the journey of establishing the events and the impact they’ve had on participants and the local community, saying, “We are immensely proud of what we’ve created over the last 18 years.”
He highlighted that the acquisition was a testament to the events’ success, crediting the hard work of volunteers, sponsors, charity partners, the Highland Council, and local residents who rally each year to support competitors from around the world.
Now, with LME’s expertise behind them, Sutherland sees potential for even greater growth and impact, sharing his excitement for the “next chapter” with the added energy and reach of LME’s experienced team.
LME, which celebrates the 45th London Marathon in 2025, has acquired other notable events in recent years, including the Brighton Marathon and the Bath Half Marathon, while extending its influence in athletics with ventures like Athletic Ventures, a partnership aimed at transforming UK athletics.
The company works closely with its parent charity, the London Marathon Foundation, and has awarded over £108.5 million to projects promoting an active lifestyle across the UK.
Malcolm and Caroline Sutherland will continue to lead their dedicated team of local volunteers and staff, working closely with LME to uphold the beloved character of their events while elevating them on the global stage.
Sutherland sees the partnership with LME as the perfect alignment of values, adding:
“The synergy between Caledonian Concepts and LME made this acquisition natural — we’re both driven to inspire inclusivity in sport and support our communities.”
As the world-renowned London Marathon continues to grow, it appears the Highlands are now set to join this legacy, raising the profile of Scottish endurance events and strengthening their impact in communities near and far.
