Bright Stars Nursery Group, one of the UK’s largest major nursery operators, has acquired The Cheshire Day Nursery business through Christie & Co for an undisclosed sum.
The Cheshire Day Nursery group consists of four nurseries and one day nursery with extensive freehold and leasehold properties. Over the years, these have been sympathetically modernized to maximize their original features and create first-class environments for all participating children.
All sites are located in prime locations in and around North West England including Latchford, Winwick and Thelwall.
Founded in 2000 by sisters Julie Mannering and Brenda Burling, the nursery portfolio offers a total of approx. 464 children aged 0-5, whose annual fee income grows to over £3 million.
The couple recently decided to consider selling the group to pursue a well-earned retirement from the industry.
Julie and Brenda commented: “We are both delighted to have found a wonderful home for our nurseries after over 20 years of arrangements. We were very focused on making sure that when we sold we left all the staff, children and parents in very good hands and we feel we have done this with Bright Stars.
“Like any sale process, this has been an eventful journey, but we wish Stephen and his entire team at Bright Stars all the best and hope they continue to build on what we have achieved over the years. We would also like to thank Nick at Christies for his support and advice throughout during the process.
Stephen Booty, director of Bright Stars Nursery Group, said: “We are delighted to have acquired the Cheshire Day nurseries and the four fantastic nurseries will significantly increase our presence in the North West.
– Daycare centers have built a strong reputation for excellent childcare. We look forward to working with staff, parents and their children as we continue to build on Julie and Brenda’s legacy.
Nick Brown, Head of Brokerage – Childcare & Education, added: “It’s such a great feeling to be able to help two owners retire from the childcare industry, knowing they’re passing on a premium business to new buyers.
“I have known both Brenda and Julie for a long time and they have put their heart and soul into providing the highest level of childcare in some amazing buildings.
“This is a market-setting deal, which shows that buyers are very keen to acquire the best settings in premium destinations.
“I would like to wish them well in their retirement and I am sure that Bright Stars will thrive in all of these environments and over time we will see their footprint in this area grow.”
