Kids Planet mulls global expansion

The UK’s second largest nursery chain, Kids Planet, is mulling over an international expansion strategy that has the potential to transform the group into a global childcare powerhouse.

Speaking at TheBusinessDesk.com’s annual Rainmakers Conference, Kids Planet CEO, Clare Roberts, said there are opportunities in the US, Europe, and the Middle East where the group can leverage its reputation for high-quality childcare and innovative operational model to break into new territories.

She said: “The international opportunity is enormous. The US market has been massively disrupted by COVID-19, creating unique expansion possibilities that we’re eager to explore.

“Regulation is key in childcare, and, at Kids Planet, we are in an excellent position to leverage the UK’s internationally respected childcare provision.

“Each state in the US is almost like a separate country, and every international market has its own complex regulatory environment. We’ve already proven we can navigate this by successfully expanding into Wales, demonstrating our ability to maintain our culture and values across different regulatory landscapes.”

Founded in 2008 during the financial crisis, Kids Planet emerged from Roberts’ personal challenge of finding flexible childcare while maintaining a demanding career.

What began as a two-nursery operation has transformed into a £200m enterprise employing 7,000 staff. Kids Planet currently has 235 nurseries, caring for 36,500 children across the UK.

Roberts’ expansion has been strategic, and laser focused. Unlike many rapid-growth businesses, Kids Planet has maintained an emphasis on quality and cultural consistency. The company’s unique selling proposition – employing zero agency staff and investing heavily in training – has been a critical differentiator in a fragmented market where the top 10 operators represent just 12% of the sector.

Roberts’ growth plans are not solely focussed on cracking the international market.

She envisions a multi-pronged approach involving further strategic acquisitions in the UK and potential greenfield development.

Interestingly, a third of potential acquisition opportunities now come directly to Roberts via LinkedIn, reflecting the trust and reputation she has built in the sector.

This organic deal flow provides a significant advantage in identifying potential sellers who are seeking responsible, values-driven acquirers.

Financial backing will be crucial to further expansion. Having previously worked with BGF and now partnered with Freemman Capital, Roberts understands the importance of aligned investor relationships. Her current strategy focuses on doubling the business size within two years.

The company’s training academy, which currently delivers apprenticeship qualifications to 700 learners, could also become a strategic asset in international markets. While she sees this primarily as a recruitment tool, it represents potential additional revenue and a mechanism for maintaining the company’s high-quality standards in new territories.

The global childcare market is projected to grow significantly, driven by increasing workforce participation and changing family dynamics. Kids Planet’s model of high-quality, values-driven care could be particularly attractive in markets seeking innovative childcare solutions.

Her leadership style – characterised by strategic thinking, operational hands- on approach, and a commitment to maintaining company culture – has been critical to driving forward the company. Having grown the business while raising three children, she brings a unique perspective to scaling a childcare enterprise.

She said: “Our success isn’t just about numbers. It’s about making a genuine difference to children, families, and the colleagues who care for them.”

It is exciting times for Kids Planet, and the next 12 months may see Roberts’ vision of a globally recognized, high-quality childcare brand moving from aspiration to reality.

For an industry often characterised by fragmentation and inconsistent quality, Kids Planet’s ambitions represent more than just business expansion. They signal a potential reimagining of childcare as a professional, strategic, and values-driven sector.

As Roberts herself says, this isn’t just about growing a business – it’s about creating opportunities for children and families across the globe.