Eversheds has advised Phoenix Equity Partners (‘Phoenix’) on the acquisition of day nursery provider, Just Childcare Limited (‘Just Childcare’). The acquisition represents an initial investment alongside the founders of Just Childcare to support the future development of Just Childcare.

Just Childcare operates six day nurseries in the Northwest of England, with a seventh to open shortly. Phoenix hopes to use the acquisition of Just Childcare as a platform from which to build a leading business in this sector through bolt-on acquisitions and new openings, for which it is committing substantial additional funding.

The team was led by Partners James Trevis and Alasdair Outhwaite and assisted by Corporate Associates Elizabeth Tindall and Laura Evans, Property Senior Associate Sam Bhachu, Employment Legal Director Jane Cotton and Banking Associate Jessica Burgess. Tax Partner Ben Jones and Senior Associate Colin Askew provided tax planning and structuring advice.

James Trevis commented:

“Following the success of the acquisition by Phoenix of the Gym Group on which Eversheds advised, we were delighted to work with Phoenix again on this strategically important acquisition. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Phoenix as they develop their presence in the fast-growing childcare sector”.

Commenting on the acquisition, Barry Robinson of Phoenix said:

“This is an attractive sector with clear opportunities to build a significant group and we are proud that we can play a part in making a difference in such an important area of the economy. The acquisition was completed on a tight timetable and Eversheds did an excellent job of marshalling us through it.”