Ascot Group completes sale of its media business to HomeServe PLC founder Richard Harpin

Andrew Scott, CEO of Weston-super-Mare based Ascot Group, has completed the sale of Business Leader, the Groups’ B2B media and events company to Richard Harpin, Founder and Chairman of the £4 billion HomeServe PLC business. 

Business Leader serves ambitious entrepreneurs, business leaders and professionals across the UK via a print magazine, newsletters, podcasts and a news website. It also operates high profile business events including the Business Leader Awards. 

In acquiring Business Leader, Richard Harpin will support it to create an inspirational and agenda-setting business publication for entrepreneurs across the UK. 

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As part of the acquisition founder Andrew Scott will remain with the business as Chairman. 

Richard Harpin, founder and Chairman of Homeserve PLC, said: 

“Having grown HomeServe from a £50,000 investment into a £4bn business, I know how important it is to have access to the right mentorship, networking opportunities and newsflow. Business Leader’s loyal following and multi-channel approach means it is uniquely placed to become the go-to outlet for ambitious founders and entrepreneurs”. 

Andrew Scott, founder and CEO of the Ascot Group, said: 

“Since launching the Ascot Group in 2004 it has been my mission to support businesses and help them grow through our marketing, media and technology companies. Business Leader has built a community of tens of thousands of high-growth businesses via our magazine, online content and events, and Richard will support this even further. 

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The great news is that Business Leader will continue to operate and expand from our offices in Worle. I am looking forward to being part of the ongoing journey while also supporting Ascot Group’s core marketing and technology businesses which have continued to enjoy rapid growth in recent years.” 

The Ascot Group was established by serial entrepreneur, investor and marketing expert Andrew Scott in 2004 and employs 110 people across 3 sites. The Group includes a marketing firm, data and software business, a property company and a private equity venture supporting start-ups and entrepreneurs with investment and business support. 

Ascot Group was advised by Charles Cook, Managing Partner of Bristol-based Cook Corporate solicitors.