European soft play firm enters UK market

A Sheffield-based legal firm has supported a European soft play operator with its first UK move.

MD Law advised Dutch leisure group 24 Indoor on its acquisition of Rascals Party & Play Centre, in Preston. 

The deal marks the UK debut of Monkey Town, the group’s flagship indoor playground brand and the largest of its kind in Europe.

Monkey Town currently operates more than 75 venues across the Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland, with plans underway for further expansion into Spain and the UK. 

The Preston site, which has served local families for more than 17 years, will be rebranded under the Monkey Town banner as part of the company’s wider growth strategy.

Peter van Wijk, chief executive at 24 Indoor, said: “This acquisition is a major milestone in our UK rollout. 

“Rascals has strong local roots and a loyal customer base, which makes it the perfect launchpad for our brand. 

“Our ambition is to combine the best of what’s already there, with the operational excellence and innovation that 24 Indoor is known for.

“We were also pleased to collaborate closely with MD Law, who provided crucial legal support throughout this transaction.”

Legal advice for 24 Indoor was provided by James Burdekin and Travis Wood, of MD Law, while Scott Sanderson and Jack Ware, of Hawsons Chartered Accountants, led the financial transaction.

James said: “We were pleased to support 24 Indoor on this exciting transaction and work alongside the team at Hawsons. 

“There was excellent collaboration from all parties throughout the process, and we’re delighted to have played a part in helping Monkey Town successfully enter the UK market.”

Jack added: “Rascals has a fantastic reputation in Preston and the wider Lancashire community, making it a valuable and strategic addition to Monkey Town’s portfolio.”

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