What began as a family’s mission to create quality childcare has evolved into a thriving franchise network spanning the UK. Today, three generations lead the business, supporting franchisees to grow – with exactly half now running multiple Banana Moon nurseries of their own.
Their second consecutive Elite Franchise Top 100 ranking rounds off a big year for Banana Moon. Read more about their success story and why 2026 could be your year to make a difference!
Shooting for the moon
Banana Moon Day Nursery was established in 2006 and began to franchise in 2010. To mark their 15-year franchising milestone, they’ve been taking a moment to reflect. Throughout the year they’ve been sharing 15 brand promises that have shaped their journey. These promises include:
15 years of growing together as a franchise
Banana Moon offers franchisees a reliable, scalable business opportunity in a sector that’s in hot demand. They’re proud to be the only a BFA ‘established’ nursery group franchise. They were also recognised in this year’s Top 20 Large Nursery Groups in the daynurseries.co.uk awards for the second consecutive year.
A testament to the success of their business model is the fact that 50% of their franchisees manage multiple locations, with several moving onto their third territories. As well as appealing to franchisees looking to own and operate multiple locations, Banana Moon’s strong reputation and proven model make them a brilliant option to include within a wider portfolio of trusted brands, under a MUMBO (multi-unit, multi-brand operator) model.
15 years of feeling part of a family
Banana Moon proudly remain a family business, and they uphold the same vision and values that they started out with. The idea first took shape when Managing Director Mark Bates struggled to find a quality nursery for his own child.
Today, three generations of the Bates family – Mark, Mike (Mark’s dad and co-founder) and Josh (Mark’s nephew) – continue to drive the business forward with one shared goal: to make Banana Moon ‘The Most Loved’ nursery group and franchise.
Banana Moon know that high-quality childcare and successful businesses go hand in hand with well-trained, supported and happy franchisees and teams – the wider Banana Moon family that bring their values to life every day.
15 years of building communities, not just businesses
Banana Moon believe it’s their responsibility to support communities in ways that reach beyond providing exceptional childcare. They’ve introduced a number of safety initiatives under the ‘Bright futures’ title:
- Little hearts, bright futures (2023) – Installed an automated external defibrillator (AED) in all nurseries.
- Big moments, bright futures (2025) – Equipped all nurseries with a LifeVac anti-choking device.
They were presented with the Natalia Shvarts QFP Community Builder of the Year Award for 2025, with their ‘Little hearts, bright futures’ initiative being key to this recognition.
A bright future
2025’s continued growth shows just how passionate Banana Moon’s franchisees are about their mission to inspire a generation. But it’s not just been a year of reflection, it’s been a statement of intent for many more successful years of franchising to come.
Banana Moon’s sights are set firmly on the future – and helping more and more franchisees shoot for the moon!
Why become part of this growing franchise?
- Equipment package, including CCTV and biometric systems
- Proven business model
- Access to an established brand
- Ongoing nursery guidance and business advice
- Property search support
- Bespoke curriculum
- Banana Moon Training Academy
- Bespoke marketing plan using data and insights
Testimonials:
We really value the way the franchise keeps us ahead of the curve when it comes to regulation and policy. In a sector where expectations and standards are constantly evolving, their ability to provide timely updates and practical guidance has been key. The franchise’s commitment to strong policies and hands-on support has allowed us to focus on what matters most: creating the best environment for children to thrive and building a nursery we’re proud of. – Lorraine Ellis from Banana Moon Day Nursery Bromley
From the very start of my journey in 2020 I have felt incredibly supported. The franchise stood by me and our nursery every step of the way, offering everything we needed to navigate such an unpredictable time [due to the pandemic]. Their presence and reassurance made all the difference. I’m proud to be part of a franchise that genuinely cares about people, supports growth and puts well-being at the heart of everything we do. – Jayne Garbutt from Banana Moon Day Nursery Catterick
Over the last 10 years, being part of the Banana Moon network has been one of the most rewarding and supportive journeys of my career. From the very beginning, I have always felt there was someone to turn to, whether for advice, reassurance or simply encouragement during the more challenging times. They truly go above and beyond, and I feel very proud and grateful to be part of such a dedicated and inspiring network. – Amanda Penny from Banana Moon Day Nursery Aberdeen