A total of seven Bermudian businesses have been recognised for meeting tough service standards.

The Bermuda Tourism Authority handed out its first awards for national service standards — and said it highlights their “superior hospitality and customer service.”

Karla Lacey, BTA chief operating officer, said: “Completion of the programme provides a powerful marketing advantage for these businesses.”

Each business is now marked on the gottobermuda.com website, identifying their achievement.

In addition, they appear at the head of listings in their categories — allowing visitors to the site to find them more easily — and they are allowed to display a special seal advertising their status.

Russ Ford, of Bermuda Transportation Services, said: “The national service standards programme has been a tremendous boost to my transportation company.

“This was just what our staff and customers needed so that the people of Bermuda and our overseas guests can be provided with a Bermudaful experience and share that experience with others.”

Chris Garland, a partner in the Flanagan’s Irish Pub group, said: “I encourage more local businesses to be certified so that the country as a whole can progress further with the hospitality industry.

“I congratulate all our staff and management for achieving this valuable recognition.”

The other five businesses honoured by the BTA were 27th Century Boutique, Alexandra Mosher Studio Jewellery, Bermuda Perfumery, Chopstix Fusion and Dolphin Quest.

All the successful businesses had to show a consistent performance over five key skills — welcoming, engaging, delivery, promoting and accountability.

And at least 70 per cent of staff dealing with customers had to complete the certified tourism ambassador programme.

Their performance was checked by undercover judges, who visited each business several times to check standards were adhered to.

Any business that wants to learn more about certification under the scheme should visit www.Service.bm.

The programme will be open to new participants in September.