Searchlight reached a peak of number eleven on the UK Albums Chart, and was certified Silver in the United Kingdom and marked the beginning of a period of commercial success for the band across Europe.

The Big Wheel (1991) and Amazing Things (1993) both reached the top five of the UK Albums Chart, whilst Amazing Things gave the band their debut appearance on the German Albums Chart following a peak position of number forty-seven.

In 1996, Runrig released a cover version of "Rhythm of My Heart" by Rod Stewart which was included on their compilation album Long Distance.

Long Distance achieved considerable commercial success across Europe, reaching number thirteen in the United Kingdom, six in Denmark, sixty in Germany and number one in their native Scotland, whilst achieving both Gold certifications in the United Kingdom and Denmark.

In 2007, a remixed version of "Loch Lomond" featuring the Tartan Army, entitled "Loch Lomond (Hampden Remix)" gave the band their only appearance in the Top 10 of the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number nine and achieving a Silver certification in the United Kingdom.