Our unique nursery directory, which is meticulously updated every six months, has established itself as the authoritative guide to this fast-growing industry and is increasingly relied upon by market analysts, commentators and researchers. This issue lists more than 150 nursery chains in the UK and Ireland. We are always keen to include new providers and urge anyone who is not currently included and who operates at least three nurseries to get in touch.
Our expanded feature coverage tackles all aspects of nursery chains'
operations, from buying and selling property to making the most of outdoor space. Nursery chains are concentrated in the south-east, and on page four we explore the upsides and downsides of running nurseries in the capital itself. Operating in the city centre brings specific challenges, not least the need to balance high staff and property costs and fees.
However, it's not all about profit and loss; children's welfare is at the heart of any nursery chain's business. Fundraising is a natural extension of this and we look at some of the different charities that chains have chosen to support on page 15.
