Nursery chain 'set for growth' after profit boost

A childcare operator founded to fill a market gap is cheering a financial boost.

Little Angels has seen profits more than double.

And boss Debbie Wylie says its momentum is set to continue, with plans for new sites tipped to nearly treble childcare place numbers to 800.

The business – which employs around 100 staff – has branches in Newcastle and Northumberland, with further sites on the horizon as part of a five-year growth strategy.

Debbie said: “I started Little Angels in 1999 because I couldn’t find suitable childcare for my son, and the business has grown from strength to strength.”

That growth, she said, has been supported by business coach Ian Kinnery, who Debbie met via the Entrepreneurs’ Forum.

She said: “Scaling a business is a daunting task for any entrepreneur, so I wanted to work with someone who had a proven track record not just for helping grow other businesses, but their own too.

“Ian has walked the walk, and his insight has had a priceless impact on Little Angels.

“He took me out of my comfort zone – in a safe way – and I also felt comfortable sharing the difficulties that arise for every entrepreneur scaling a business.

“The difference he’s made has been transformational.”

Ian added: “Running a business can be one of the loneliest roles you’ll ever take on.

“Debbie’s journey shows the incredible results that can happen when a leader invests in themselves, while benefiting her community by creating a business that provides first-rate development for youngsters.

“I’m thrilled with the direction her company is headed in, and she should be incredibly proud of what her and the team are achieving.”

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