Schofield Sweeney advises on nursery acquisition

A day nursery in Reigate, Surrey has been acquired by Kids Planet Day Nurseries – one of the UK’s largest nursery groups.

Established in March 2020, Somers House Nursery, part of Cavendish Lodge Nursery and Pre-Schools, owned by Jodie and Kevin Potter, is a reputable 80-place setting that offers year-round childcare for babies from six months, toddlers, and pre-schoolers up to five years.

Cavendish Lodge was advised on the sale by West Yorkshire-based commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney. The sale will allow the Potters to concentrate on their other two London-based day nurseries.

Kevin Potter, said: “Selling Somers House was never part of our plan, but it was important that if we ever did, it would be to people who shared our family-centred ethos. The Kids Planet team impressed us from the outset with their personal approach and the warmth of a family-run organisation, far removed from the more corporate alternatives that we met along the way.

“We’re reassured knowing the nursery will continue under a team who truly understands and values its character. We wish Kids Planet every success for the future at Somers House.”

Nick Brown Director & Head of Brokerage – Childcare & Education at Christie & Co, which brokered the deal, said: “It has been a pleasure working with Kevin and Jodie. It’s always hard for owners when they have poured so much of their time, love, and effort into creating something special – when it’s time to let go, this can be a challenge. They can now concentrate on their other nurseries which are located closer to where they live. They should be very proud of what they have achieved at Somers house over the last five years. Thanks to Mike, Jack and the team at Schofield Sweeney for being proactive and playing their part in getting this deal to a successful conclusion.”

Cavendish Lodge was supported on the transaction by a multidisciplinary team at Schofield Sweeney, including specialists from Corporate, Environmental, Commercial Employment and Tax.

Jack Venable, Solicitor at Schofield Sweeney, said: “We were delighted to support Jodie and Kevin in this transaction. Cavendish Lodge is a true family business and they were keen to ensure Somers House would be in good hands.”

Kids Planet was represented by Mills & Reeve.