kiana group has been sold to Kalaidos, a subsidiary of Klett Group
kiana group is a leading Swiss provider of childcare services. With its clear focus on providing high-quality and nature-driven childcare services at affordable prices, kiana group experienced a tremendous growth story in recent years. Since its foundation in 2014, kiana group has continuously opened new locations across Switzerland, and has a current capacity of approximately 450 childcare spots with around 100 employees in more than 10 nurseries.
The Deal
Following a targeted approach of strategic and financial investors, Kalaidos positioned itself as the perfect partner for kiana group and simultaneously offering an attractive succession solution for the founders. The transaction will enable kiana group to accelerate its growth journey and will enable Kalaidos to offer the full education journey – from nursery to university.
Daniel Grünig, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of kiana group, commented, “Lincoln’s team always impressed us with their great commitment, ideas and knowledge. They managed the process calmly even in the more hectic phases and always pursued our objectives consistently and efficiently. We succeeded in finding an optimal succession solution in a very short time, and we would like to thank the Lincoln team for their great job and their always courteous and professional support in this important phase of our lives.”
Our Perspective
Øyvind Bjordal, Managing Director and Head of Lincoln Switzerland, added, “We are pleased to have found a good home for kiana group to further its expansion story with a strong strategic partner. The sale of kiana group marks another successful Lincoln sell-side of an European multi-site childcare business next to All About Children and KMK Kinderzimmer.”
Kalaidos
Kalaidos, a company of the German education provider Klett Group, operates private educational institutions throughout Switzerland for all age groups, from kindergarten to university. In addition, the group produces and distributes educational media. Kalaidos employs approximately 2,900 people in Switzerland and provides education for more than 18,000 students. In 2021, Kalaidos achieved overall revenue of CHF 187 million.