Overview
Thrive is one of the UK’s largest children’s nursery groups, with 46 settings in North West England and Scotland that operate under a range of local brands. Thrive Childcare and Education is committed to delivering high quality early years education across the whole nursery group.
The management team is led by CEO Cary Rankin who has been with the nursery group since 2015. He is supported by a strong senior management team who have significant experience in the education and healthcare sectors.
Company website: thrivechildcare.com
Investment Team
Investment Strategy
Thrive’s nurseries are well-positioned to benefit from growing demand for quality early years education across the UK. This growth is underpinned favourable population trends, increasing female workforce participation and cross-party support for increased government funding. The nursery sector remains highly fragmented, with over 15,000 nurseries in the UK. Apiary will provide additional capital and strategic support to drive an acquisitive growth strategy.
Cary Rankin
CEO
"Our partnership with Apiary will allow us to continue to invest in our nurseries and deliver the very best levels of care and education. In addition, there is a clear opportunity to expand Bertram’s footprint through selective acquisitions."
Key Details
Number of nurseries: 49
Number of children's places: 4,038
Number of staff members: 1,200
HEADQUARTERS: Edinburgh
INVESTMENT DATE: February 2019
SECTOR: Education
STATUS: Current