Bumbles Nursery Group has bought Sure Steps Derby Lane Nursery in Liverpool, bringing its growing portfolio up to four settings.

Bumbles Nursery Group acquired Sure Steps, which has an effective operating capacity for 58 children aged up to five years, following a confidential sales process with Sofia Beck at specialist business property adviser Christie & Co.

Sure Steps has been owned and operated by John and Ann Miller since 2011. The pair decided to sell as they wished to start their retirement and the property was owned by their pension fund.

Ian Makinson, director at Bumbles Nursery Group, said: “This expansion strengthens our commitment to providing excellent early years care and education in the Liverpool and Sefton areas, ensuring that more families have access to quality childcare within their communities. Our team looks forward to welcoming more children to Bumbles Nursery and continuing to offer a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment that inspires young learners.”

John and Ann Miller said: “When we acquired the setting, we could see the potential. We have invested in the nursery over the years and it has consistently grown and transformed into a thriving setting with passionate and committed staff caring for generations of children. We are sure that Ian and the Bumbles Nursery Group team’s enthusiasm for childcare will continue our legacy.”

Sofia Beck, director – childcare & education at Christie & Co, said: “This was a confidential opportunity which attracted Bumbles Nursery Group from the offset due to its location and outstanding reputation. The nursery is an excellent addition to the three other nurseries they currently own. We were delighted to assist Ann and John with the sale which sets them off on their journey toward retirement, and it’s great to help Angela [Bumbles’ original managing director] and her team secure this nursery which undoubtedly has further scope and potential for them to build on and explore.”