Inspired Business Media, the international business events company established in Newport, in 2013 by Jason Awatar and Leigh Hussain have acquired Palace House, the Grade 2 listed building in Newport city centre, as the company headquarters, following a £1,000,000 investment supported by Barclays.

Established in 2013 the business now employs 54 staff, producing industry leading business to business conferences, round tables and events, supporting educational learning and strategic meetings for the world’s most innovative and pioneering organisations such as Google, Facebook, IBM and Amazon at luxury venues in London, New York, Amsterdam and Dublin.

Leigh Hussain, Director of Inspired Business Media said,

“We are local boys who are passionate about our business and giving local talent the chance to grow and develop. We are going to create up to 5o new jobs this year and needed more space, which is when we decided to acquire the 200-year-old “Palace House”, home to former archbishops and derelict for a number of years. This property is part of Newport’s forgotten history and we are delighted that the local council and surrounding residents have been supportive in this huge restoration project.”

Graham Turner, Barclays Business Manager, said,

“As champions of local business, it is essential that we support local growing businesses such as Inspired Business Media. Leigh and Jason are great examples of an entrepreneur using their experience, contacts and skills to develop a successful business.  By really understanding the business and issues they have faced, Barclays has been able to support the business throughout its development. This is great news for Newport in restoring this historical building back to its former glory while creating jobs for the local community. ”

Jason Awatar continues,

“We have faced a number of challenges since starting the business including my own personal challenge when I suffered a major stroke on stage during an event in 2017. We are well positioned within the local and international markets and can use this investment supported by Barclays to grow and strengthen our business. Running a business is tough but the rewards far outweigh the downsides even after working long hours. Corporate social responsibility is very important to us. We will continue to promote sustainability and ethical working practices, whilst finding new ways to invest in Newport and support our local economy.”

For further information visit www.inspiredbusinessmedia.com