ASCOT Group's B2B media and events company, Business Leader, has been sold to the founder and chairman of the £4 billion HomeServe PLC business.

Andrew Scott, CEO of Weston-based Ascot Group, has completed the sale to Richard Harpin.

Business Leader serves business professionals and entrepreneurs via a print magazine, newsletters, podcasts and a news website.

Not only that, but it also operates high profile events, including the Business Leader Awards.

Mr Harpin will continue to support people in business across the country through the publication. Mr Scott will remain as business chairman.

Ascot Group employs 110 people from its offices in Worle.
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Mr Harpin 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.”

Mr Scott added: “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.

"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 website reads: "When Andrew Scott launched his business and marketing consultancy firm, Purplex, in 2004 he had a dream of building a world-class business. 3 years later, in 2007, he opened an office above an estate agent and took on his first employee.

"Today the Ascot Group has a multi-million turnover, 80+ employees and a 7-figure balance sheet with strong liquidity. It operates from facilities in London and across 3 purpose-built offices near Bristol with over 15,000 sq ft space.

"The structure was formalised in 2012 when Ascot Group (Holdings) Ltd was incorporated as a holding company, with a number of subsidiary companies, a property business and an investment arm."