Tibeca21 Management GmbH, owned by the founders of nursery group KMK kinderzimmer, has acquired British subsidiary kinderzimmer UK.

Kinderzimmer UK, which launched its first nursery in 2023, will operate as an independent entity under Tibeca21’s majority ownership. Kinderzimmer UK will continue its expansion, with a focus on providing high quality early years education throughout London and the Home Counties. It currently runs 10 settings, with nurseries in locations including Muswell Hill, South Kensington, Walthamstow, White City, and Walton on Thames.

MK kinderzimmer was founded by Karina and Melf Kruse. “We are thrilled to bring kinderzimmer UK into the Tibeca21 portfolio and contribute to the development of the UK early education landscape,” said Melf Kruse. “Our mission is to ensure that every child has access to the best possible start in life. We see this acquisition as an opportunity to expand our reach and make a real difference in the lives of families across the UK.”

“We are proud of this significant step in our journey towards enhancing early childhood education, ” said Karina Kruse. “The market in the UK clearly shows that demand for high-quality education is growing, but that meeting this demand often falls short of expectations. We are
proud to contribute to a positive change here and to make a real difference for children in particular, but also for society in general, with a clear focus on quality and innovation.

“Of course, bringing kinderzimmer UK into our portfolio is also a matter of our hearts. We hope that more promising concepts will be added and that we will be able to make a significant difference in the educational landscape.”

Tibeca21, which brings extensive experience in the early childhood sector, is the majority shareholder, with investment company Haniel a 25% shareholder. Haniel holds 60% of German company kinderzimmer GmbH & Co KG.

Vishav Roma, kinderzimmer UK chief executive, said : “Having our original founders, Karina and Melf Kruse, gain majority ownership of kinderzimmer UK through Tibeca21 marks an exciting new chapter for our company. Their deep passion for early childhood education and commitment to our mission will continue to guide us as we grow and innovate in the UK market. We are thrilled to embark on this next phase of our growth together.”