Sale – Multi-Site Nursery Group
Reasons to choose Wilson Browne
On this page:
The Transaction
Holly Threlfall advised on the successful sale of a Nottingham-based nursery group operating across three sites. The business had been built over several decades by its sole shareholder and director and was sold to an established childcare provider with sector expertise.
The Challenge
Selling a childcare business involves more than a standard business sale. Buyers need confidence that the business meets the sector’s strict regulatory and safeguarding requirements, including:
- OFSTED compliance and inspection history
- Staffing and safeguarding obligations
- Health and safety procedures
- Regulatory registrations and notifications
At the same time, the owner had to manage extensive due diligence while continuing to run the business and maintain confidentiality with employees and parents until completion.
The Approach
Holly worked closely with the seller to:
- Manage a detailed due diligence process focused on operational and regulatory compliance
- Find practical solutions to complex information requests
- Negotiate fair and commercial warranty and liability provisions
- Coordinate the transaction efficiently while minimising disruption to the day-to-day operation of the business
- Support regulatory consent and notification requirements throughout the sale process.
By combining corporate transaction expertise with an understanding of the childcare sector, we were able to keep the transaction progressing while protecting our client’s interests.
The Outcome
The business was successfully sold to an experienced nursery operator who understood the sector and shared the seller’s commitment to employees, parents and children.
The transaction delivered a smooth transfer of ownership, providing continuity for the business and confidence for all stakeholders involved.
Top Tips for Selling a Nursery Business (or any business)
- Get ahead of compliance
Ensure your policies, procedures and regulatory records are up to date. Buyers will scrutinise compliance closely. - Prepare for the workload
The information-gathering process can be significant. Understanding what will be required early can help avoid delays and deal fatigue. - Build the right advisory team
Working with advisers who understand both M&A transactions and the childcare sector can make a significant difference to the speed and success of a deal.
Whether you’re preparing for a future exit or have already received an offer, Holly Threlfall and the Corporate team at Wilson Browne can help you navigate the process and maximise value.