Danish firm Famly is acquiring FirstSteps, a Leicester-based pioneer in the Early Years software world.
The deal will see more than 600 FirstSteps customers welcomed to the Famly platform in the coming months, supported by FirstSteps staff who will all officially join the Famly
team from their offices in Leicester.
The acquisition of a major early years software company by another provider is said to be the first of its kind in the UK.
Famly CEO Anders Laustsen said: “At Famly, we want to support shared early childhood, where educators and owners are working in the closest possible collaboration with their children’s families – to make sure children have the best possible start to life. I’m so thrilled to finally announce this deal, which has been made possible through a lot of hard graft from our team and the new members of the Famly at FirstSteps.
“Most of all, I just want to thank Kirit and Kokila for three decades of service to the sector that has provided the foundation for Famly to thrive – and for sharing our vision for better early childhood. And to all FirstSteps customers, we can’t wait to meet you and show you what Famly can do for you and your families.”
FirstSteps began making early years software when it involved installing the program with a floppy disk. The software has moved a long way since then, and the company’s 30-year tenure in the sector has left a proud mark.
Founder Kirit and his wife Kokila – whose son inspired the creation of FirstSteps and now works for FirstSteps – will be taking a well-deserved retirement once the deal concludes in the summer.
FirstSteps CEO Kirit Patel said: “Famly and FirstSteps started the same way, a father who wanted to make things easier for the staff at his child’s nursery. As we approached retirement I wanted to make sure we had the right partner to carry that legacy on and Famly is clearly that partner, with their excellent customer focus, great reputation in the sector, and fantastic modern software.
“Thank you to all the FirstSteps customers who have put their faith in us for so many years, your loyalty means a lot. Just as I trust Famly to look after my brilliant team here in Leicester, I trust them to look after you.”
