Babilou Family announces the acquisition of nearly 200 establishments of the Dutch BLOS network. One year after its arrival in the Netherlands, the group has established itself as a major player in the field of education, serving the development and well-being of the children in its care.

One year after its arrival in the Netherlands and the acquisition of the Wonderland network, Babilou Family strengthens its presence in the country with the acquisition of the BLOS network. Created in 1992, BLOS has c.200 establishments and 9,400 places for children aged 0 to 14. 

The early childhood (0-4 years) and after-school (4-14 years) care sector is very important in Europe and particularly in the Netherlands, where the educational approach is particularly well known. 
Babilou Family and BLOS are united by a common vision of high-quality education and aim to offer children a familiar, safe, and stimulating environment. As Babilou Family, BLOS considers that every day is an adventure and is committed to place experience and development, as well as self-confidence, at the centre of its activities.

With this acquisition, Babilou Family strengthens its position as a major player in education in the Netherlands. In 2021, the group plans to welcome about 12,000 children with its network of 230 nurseries and after-school care centers.

“The Netherlands is one of the leading countries in the field of childcare, early education and development. With the addition of BLOS to our existing network of nearly 800 facilities around the world, run by more than 10,000 professionals in 12 countries, we see yet another opportunity to share best practices and put into practice our know-how in early childhood care. The real beneficiaries of such knowledge sharing are the children and parents we serve.” Xavier Ouvrard, CEO Babilou Family.

By joining Babilou Family, BLOS begins a new stage of cooperation with an established international company in childcare and early years education. Max van de Blaak, Director of BLOS childcare, commented: “We are delighted to be joining Babilou Family as it is the natural progression of the initial vision we set out over 25 years ago: to offer every child the very best in development opportunities. Key to that vision is the continuing ability to invest in quality. With the support of Babilou Family, we will embark on our next phase of growth, which will include further developing our educational approach, training of employees, upgrading the facilities, and ensuring high-quality services to parents.”

This intended step is subject to ACM's approval. The BLOS works council has offered positive advice.