The group has been improving its services at many of its 34 nurseries, and the new investment from Allied Irish Bank (GB), will allow it to continue this upgrade programme.
It will also provide a platform for future growth, through potential acquisitions and creating jobs, as the group seeks to expand further. The group currently employs just under 600 staff.
David Johnson, Just Childcare director, said, ‘The funding provided by Allied Irish Bank (GB) is being used to complete the refurbishment of some of our nurseries and enhance even further the facilities that we offer, some of which include sensory rooms and Forest Schools. ‘I have worked with Allied Irish Bank (GB) for over 13 years, they are a long-standing supporter of Just Childcare and funded our set-up in 2004.’
Property expert Christie & Co. carried out the portfolio valuation and assisted the investor in refinancing the upgrade and expansion project.
Mike Rogers, senior relationship manager at Allied Irish Bank (GB), said, ‘Just Childcare has built up an enviable reputation and we are very pleased to continue our support of their business. This is an exciting stage of their development as they look to enhance their current nurseries and also embark on a potential acquisition trail to grow the business further.’
Directors David and Jacqueline Johnson (below) started the Just Childcare nursery group in 2004, and it has grown rapidly in recent years.
Between them the couple have 65 years of childcare and education experience.
In 2014, the business received investment from Phoenix Private Equity, which saw it grow from seven to 34 nurseries in three years.
The group is due to open its 35th site in Preston Fernbank in the next few months.
In Nursery World’s annual Nursery Chains supplement, Just Childcare was the 11th largest nursery group offering 2,251 childcare places, with most of its nurseries graded good and outstsanding.