Christie Finance supports Emperor Nurseries with acquisition of Dragonflies Childcare in Hampshire
Christie Finance is proud to have supported the successful acquisition of Dragonflies Childcare in Chandlers Ford by Emperor Nurseries Group. The funding was arranged by Finance Consultant Catherine Cattermole and follows a confidential sales process handled by our sister company, Christie & Co.
Christie Finance
Dragonflies Childcare has been a valued part of the Chandlers Ford community, offering care for up to 42 children, including holiday and wrap-around services for school-aged children. Under the ownership of Helen Clemons since 2018, the nursery has developed a strong reputation for its commitment to child development, supported by a dedicated and experienced team.
Helen made the decision to sell in order to spend more time with her family. Following an introduction from Christie & Co, Emperor Nurseries Group emerged as the ideal buyers, aligning with the values and ethos Helen worked hard to instil. Directors Sunil Unadkat and Avi Sethi bring with them personal experience as parents and a strong commitment to high-quality, homely childcare environments. Dragonflies will be their second setting, complementing their existing nursery in Hertford.
The purchase was supported by tailored funding from Christie Finance. Catherine Cattermole comments,
“The acquisition of Dragonflies Childcare demonstrates how strategic funding can empower ambitious childcare operators to grow responsibly and sustainably. We secured competitive funding for Emperor Nurseries by highlighting their exceptional operational track record, including the successful turnaround of their existing nursery setting. Their clear vision, combined with the quality and stability of Dragonflies, made for a compelling case. It’s a pleasure to support their continued growth.”
Helen Clemons, former owner, adds,
“It was very important to me to find a buyer that I felt would uphold the values and ethos we have worked hard to create at Dragonflies and also take good care of the amazing staff team at the heart of the nursery and out-of-school club. I am confident that Dragonflies will continue to flourish in Sunil and Avi’s capable hands.”
Sunil Unadkat and Avi Sethi, Directors of Emperor Nurseries Group, comment,
“We were very particular about choosing the next nursery to add to our group at Emperor Nurseries, as our litmus test is always ‘Would we send our own daughters here?’ Thankfully, we came across Dragonflies, which provided that cosy, ‘home away from home’ feeling we were searching for.”
Christie Finance is delighted to have played a key role in this transaction, helping another high-quality operator grow their portfolio and continue delivering excellent early years education.
Dragonflies Childcare was sold for an undisclosed sum.
Contact the broker:
Catherine Cattermole
Finance Consultant