Group of nine nurseries sold to Kids Planet in landmark transaction

Preston based Redwoods Dowling Kerr, the UK’s leading childcare business broker, has announced the successful sale of The Hunny Pot Day Nursery, a highly regarded group of nine day nurseries across Leicester, to Kids Planet Day Nurseries.

This transaction represents one of the most significant childcare deals currently seen in the UK market, highlighting the continued strength and depth of demand for high-quality nursery groups.

The Hunny Pot Day Nursery Group has built an outstanding reputation across the region, delivering exceptional childcare provision through a diverse portfolio of settings.

Operating from a mix of freehold and leasehold premises, the nurseries are strategically located across Kibworth Beauchamp, Birstall, Coalville, Whetstone, Countesthorpe, Oadby, Fleckney and Wigston Magna.

Collectively, the group provides a substantial number of registered childcare places and has consistently demonstrated strong demand from local communities.

Several of the settings have achieved excellent Ofsted ratings, including multiple ‘Good’ outcomes and one ‘Outstanding’ setting, reflecting the group’s ongoing commitment to delivering the highest standards of care and early years education.

The 685-capacity portfolio comprises a strong mix of established, high-performing nurseries alongside newer settings that are already demonstrating encouraging growth and occupancy levels.

Bosses say the acquisition by Kids Planet Day Nurseries Group represents an excellent strategic fit.

As one of the UK’s leading childcare providers, Kids Planet is well-positioned to build upon the strong foundations of The Hunny Pot Group, supporting continued growth while maintaining the quality and consistency of provision across all settings.

The sale was successfully negotiated and managed by Jenna Caldwell, Director of Operations at Redwoods Dowling Kerr, who worked closely with both parties to ensure a smooth and efficient transaction.

Jenna said: “This is an excellent example of a high-quality group attracting strong interest from established operators within the sector. The strength of the brand, combined with a capable management team and a well-balanced portfolio of settings, made this a highly compelling opportunity.

“The transaction achieved a strong multiple, reflecting the quality of the business and the continued appetite for well-performing childcare groups in the market. It has been a pleasure to support the seller throughout the process and to secure a buyer who is so well aligned with the future direction of the group.

“This deal further reflects the resilience of the childcare sector and the continued appetite from experienced operators looking to expand their presence. Transactions of this nature underline the confidence that exists within the market, particularly for well-managed groups with clear potential for further growth.”

Redwoods Dowling Kerr is part of the Altius Group, the UK's leading boutique business broker group, headquartered in Preston.