Bertram nurseries expands in Scotland

One of the largest groups in the UK, the deal takes the number of nurseries owned by Bertram to 41 across Scotland and north-west England. It now employs 1,000 staff and provides 3,500 nursery places.

• Bertram nursery group acquired in management buyout

Enchanted Forest was set up by Bernie and Mariessa Devlin in 2006 in Erskine. The other nurseries are in Thornliebank, Greenock, Inverkip and Robroyston.

Mrs Devlin said, ‘In my mind’s eye I can clearly recall our first group of children as well as remembering their names and I remember with fondness our first members of what was to become an amazing team of people.’ 

‘Over the years Enchanted Forest has nurtured, cared for and educated thousands of young children in the West of Scotland, as well as developing hundreds of staff to progress as individuals and in their careers.

‘Enchanted Forest was my first baby, it was my place with the people I have loved which never felt like work, it’s where our daughter Róisín grew up and where we have seen many children as well as staff grow too.

‘We are comforted in handing the reins to Bertram, who share our vales and have a desire for quality as they expand in the Scottish market.’

Bertram Nursery Group managing director Cary Rankin said, 'Enchanted Forest has often been described as an extended family that sees the world through the eyes of children. We felt their friendly approach chimed with our own and are delighted to welcome them into our own family.’

Mrs Devlin said, ‘In my mind’s eye I can clearly recall our first group of children as well as remembering their names and I remember with fondness our first members of what was to become an amazing team of people.’ 

‘Over the years Enchanted Forest has nurtured, cared for and educated thousands of young children in the West of Scotland, as well as developing hundreds of staff to progress as individuals and in their careers.

‘Enchanted Forest was my first baby, it was my place with the people I have loved which never felt like work, it’s where our daughter Róisín grew up and where we have seen many children as well as staff grow too.

‘We are comforted in handing the reins to Bertram, who share our vales and have a desire for quality as they expand in the Scottish market.’

Earlier this year, Bertram was acquired by its management with funding from Apiary Capital and Santander. There were unconfirmed reports that the group plans to expand to 100 nurseries with Apiary Capital’s backing.

Earlier this year, Bertram was acquired by its management with funding from Apiary Capital and Santander. There were unconfirmed reports that the group plans to expand to 100 nurseries with Apiary Capital’s backing.

In Nursery Chains 2018, Bertram was the 10^thlargest nursery group in the UK with 2,923 places.