Better Business / Member news
Award-winning law firm helps nursery client grow through acquisitions
Barcan+Kirby’s commercial services division recently supported a long-standing client in the early years sector with the acquisition of two additional nursery settings.
Muddy Nurseries acquired Little Tots Montessori Nurseries in Reading and Stoney Heath at the end of 2024, doubling its total number of settings in the South East to four.
In 2021, Natasha Ascott, the founder of leading children’s outerwear brand Muddy Puddles, brought her background in education and passion for nature into the childcare sector, focusing on settings where outdoor play and forest schooling are central to the learning experience.
Georgina Bryant, head of corporate + commercial at Barcan+Kirby and recognised for her expertise in legal transactions within the nursery sector, was introduced to Natasha in the early stages of this journey.
Georgina Bryant, head of corporate + commercial at Barcan+Kirby and recognised for her expertise in legal transactions within the nursery sector – photo: Barcan+Kirby
She supported the purchase of Natasha’s first nursery, The Children’s Room Day Nursery in Wendover, followed by the acquisition of Sunshine Montessori Nursery in late 2022.
These transactions cemented a strong working relationship between Muddy Nurseries and the firm’s corporate + commercial and commercial property teams.
Following a period of consolidation focused on operational integration, the opportunity to acquire the Little Tots Nurseries arose in 2024. The corporate + commercial team facilitated the completion of the purchase ahead of the October 2024 Budget announcement — a key concern for both parties amid anticipated tax changes.
Thanks to its wide-ranging commercial expertise, the firm provided comprehensive support across all critical areas. Alongside handling the main corporate transactions — involving both share and asset purchases — the commercial services division advised on freehold and leasehold matters, assisted with lending processes, offered employment support and addressed ad hoc commercial issues.
“The team at Barcan+Kirby are just great – down to earth, easy to work with, and simply always ‘on it’,” said Natasha Ascott, the founder of leading children’s outerwear brand Muddy Puddles
Natasha commented: “The team at Barcan+Kirby are just great – down to earth, easy to work with, and simply always ‘on it’. They take the time to explain things but understand the commercial drivers and provide the right information so I can make informed decisions and move quickly when deadlines are looming.
“I chose George and her team as I was impressed by their expertise, and have grown to really value the partnership I now have with them as they help me grow and cement the reputation of Muddy Nurseries as a childcare provider.”
Main photo: Little Tots
Barcan+Kirby are member of the Bristol24/7 Better Business network, an initiative to help businesses thrive while creating a positive impact on Bristol and the people who live here. As part of their membership, businesses can publish member news stories like this. For more information, visit my.bristol247.com/better-business
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