Successful pre-school in Kent sold to experienced operator

Sticky Fingers Pre-School, located within Essex, has been sold to an experienced operator. The sale was advised by Redwood Dowling Kerr and our market-leading team.

Just a few miles from the Greater London borough, the pre-school was first established in 1995 and has been successfully operating under current ownership since 2010. The current owner, Pauline Manning, has cemented the pre-school as an excellent provider of childcare in the local area.

The pre-school is registered for 26 children, aged between 2 and 5. It operates, by choice, throughout term-time only and provides all children with ample play and learning equipment in large open rooms, with unlimited use of the rear garden.

As well as being recognised as a reputable provider of childcare in the local area, Sticky Fingers Pre-School also received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted in its last inspection, with the report from Ofsted also citing the staff and the accessible location as excellent assets to the pre-school.

After running the nursery for 11 years, Pauline wished to enjoy her well-deserved retirement and instructed Redwoods Dowling Kerr in the sale of Sticky Fingers. The pre-school’s excellent reputation led to high levels of interest in the business, with 11 viewings and 6 strong offers made.

Sticky Fingers was sold to a buyer with vast levels of experience in the sector, with the buyer currently working within childcare and wishing to move into the area. The buyer was attracted to the business due to the excellent location, alongside the opportunity to increase operational times.

Upon completion of the sale, Pauline, the vendor, said: “The whole experience was very good, with brilliant communication throughout. Having RDK deal with the sale removes a great deal of work and concerns. I wished to retire and sell my business to someone who had a genuine interest in the sector, which RDK helped me find. I would definitely recommend them for their expertise and knowledge. Sarah was also professional and friendly at all times and was ready to give advice when needed”.

Experienced Sales Negotiator Sarah Ellison said: “It has been a pleasure working with both the vendor and buyer. Having 6 offers and 11 viewings secured Pauline the knowledgeable and keen purchaser she desired, with the buyer ready to move in just over 8 weeks since making the offer. I would like to wish both the buyer and Pauline the best of luck with their future endeavours”.