Happy 20th birthday to us!

We are absolutely stoked to announce that First Media is 20 years old this year!

Waaaay back in 1999 – when you had to dial up to use the internet and MSN messenger was the cool way to spend your evenings – the company was first founded by Ian Hargreaves.

Initially specialising in multimedia CD-ROMs, over the last two decades, we’ve evolved into a forward-thinking media agency who’s doing genuinely innovative work in web design, eLearning and events.

Barely a day goes by when we’re not working with global brands, the biggest organisations in sport and local authorities on trailblazing digital projects – all from our offices in the sleepy Lincolnshire Wolds.

What does founder and current Managing Director put the company’s recipe for success as being? Simply, being able to understand the customer.

“We pride ourselves on always taking the time to understand our customers’ needs,” Ian said.

“After we’ve spent time with a client, we use the knowledge and expertise of our team to solve their problem and produce what they want.”

Director Shane Trail joined the company back in 2003 and now leads on eLearning projects for clients such as the Premier League, the FA and International Olympic Committee.

“I absolutely love my role because I get to work with a great team and excellent clients every single day. Also, I get to help large organisations create great online content and achieve better results," Shane explained.

Over the last decade First Media has become one of the UK’s key digital innovators, but what does the future hold for the one-time family-run startup?

“We’re going to continue to offer our clients what they need,” Ian said.

“Whether that’s an online course, website, marketing material or an event – we’ll be able to help.

“One of our biggest strengths as a media agency has been our ability to offer expertise in various areas… and we’ll continue to do that long into the future.”

Shane also added: “I’m also really excited to see First Media grow and develop into a truly global company that has an impact on people’s learning journey’s all over the world.”

“Let’s see where we are in another 20 years’ time!”