Hull-based Happy Kidz Day Nursery has been bought by a former Birmingham restaurant and bar owner looking to move into childcare.
Founded in 1996 by Anita and Ian Anderson, Happy Kidz Day Nursery offers day care for up to 72 children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.
Over the years it has built an enviable local reputation and is a popular choice for parents both in the local area and in the surrounding towns and villages. It also holds several accolades, including Excellence in Childcare, and the National Day Nursery Association’s “Quality Counts” accreditation.
Happy Kidz is one of two Hull venues owned by Anita and Ian, who decided to sell their James Reckitt Avenue site so they can spend more time with their family.
The new owner, Tejinder Bal, said: “I’ve worked for several companies in the hospitality industry over many years, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve started to feel a stronger need for the intrinsic rewards of my working life. It’s something I’ve felt was missing until now.
“This was the biggest factor in wanting to get into childcare because I would be working for a company that would help shape future generations.”
Tejinder expanded: ‘When moving into a completely new industry, it was important that the target company had strong experience and Happy Kidz had been operating for 25 years, so it definitely fit the bill.
“Furthermore, I was full of confidence that there is a strong management team in place, complimented by an experienced team of nursery professionals, which made the purchase decision much easier.”
Tejinder added: “In the short term, I am not going to make any immediate changes as the business is working well.
“However, I will take this opportunity to learn and observe and, with the help of management and external consultants, implement procedures and processes to fine-tune the business offering so that we can provide children and parents with a truly outstanding service. We can all be proud.”
Anita Anderson commented: “I’ve run the business for 25 years, so selling it has been emotional. It’s like one of your children leaving home to start a new chapter in their lives, it’s exciting for them but at the same time it’s hard to let go, especially since several of my employees have been with me for over 10 years. years and one person 18 years.
“I believe that the new owner will take care of the daycare and my staff and can help it in its new phase, and I wish him all the best in his new venture.”
Vicky Marsland, assistant director of childcare and education at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, said: “I am very excited to see Mr Bali take the business forward, allowing Anita and Ian to spend more quality time with the family abroad. This is a great example of new entrants to the industry and about the possibilities for those who want to expand.
Lawrence Roberts, Associate Director of Christie Finance, who sourced the financing for Tejinder Bali, commented: “I am so delighted for Tej and would like to thank him for his continued confidence in me in providing a competitive financing package to enable him to purchase Happy Kidz Nursery.
“As the first buyer in the industry, it was important to find a well-functioning daycare center, but also the right team to make it happen. I think Tej will be successful and I wish him all the best!
