Fergus Cunningham’s Post

Due to the current market conditions of escalated construction, land costs and a hyper-competitive early learning market, the location of a childcare centre is critical to its success. Determining if a site is suitable for childcare use is extremely complex and this is why developers and operators rely on our Childcare Needs Assessment Modelling and Financial Feasibility Study, to ensure it’s a viable and profitable childcare business. At Mollard Property Group, we understand the unique challenges that come with identifying if a site is suitable for a childcare business. As specialists in the design and development of compliant early learning centres, we can streamline the entire development process. Our comprehensive Childcare Needs Assessment Modelling and Financial Feasibility Study provides a detailed analysis of the site and it’s development parameters, such as: supply and demand, competition, ease of access, exposure, demographics, the financial viability for the appropriate number of places and identify any potential issues with planning and licensing, prior to commitment. Giving our clients the right advice and the confidence to make informed decisions, and importantly de-risking the entire development process, avoiding costly mistakes and delays. With over 40 successful projects nationwide and a 100% approval rate, trust us to handle everything from site assessment to planning approvals. Get a free site assessment today and ensure your childcare centre's success! Contact us now to find out more. #MollardPropertyGroup #earlylearning #BeTheCentreOfAttention #ChildcareCentre #Childcare #EarlyLearning #opportunity #development #ChildcareInvestment #SecureYourFuture #InvestmentSuccess #ChildcareDevelopment #UnlockPotential #ProvenExpertise #MinimiseRisks #LucrativeVenture #ExpertiseYouCanTrust #ChildcareDevelopment

For about four years, I’ve been dreaming of the day I could make this announcement. And now, that day has finally come... and gone! Things have been so busy that I haven’t had a chance to share the news until now. But here it is: On August 5th, our self-service platform went live! 🎉 When my Co-Founder Lea Rozencwajg Henry and I launched CocoRio in February 2020—right before the world turned upside down—we thought we’d have our platform ready by the end of that year… We thought we could create an innovative and creative concept, test it in the market, and fully understand our customers’ needs in just a few months. We thought we could build a complex booking system that allows for flexible, customizable choices and also works as a search and matching engine to find your perfect creative nanny. We couldn’t have been more wrong... But the last four years have been some of the best of my life, filled with learning from our amazing customers and creatives. Thank you to everyone who has worked with us so far—you’ve helped shape the future of creative childcare. Now, we finally have a platform I’m truly proud of. So, if you’re a parent, carer, or business, you can now: 🔍 Search our curated roster of creative nannies and mentors (all vetted to the highest standards) by skill, language, location, and more. 📅 Post recurring or ad hoc jobs for free, view applications, chat with candidates, get expert support, and find the perfect match. 📲 Manage your bookings and find last-minute covers 24/7. And if you’re a creative, you can: ✨ Access high-quality, meaningful, and flexible childcare work that lets you use your skills. 💸 Get paid instantly, just like Uber. ⏰ Manage your schedule with full flexibility. Now the exciting part of my job starts—seeing how you use the platform and continuing to develop it with your feedback, so keep it coming! Sign Up on https://cocorio.co.uk/

Building a Brighter Future for Early Years: The Power of Flexible Working A new report from Timewise explores the challenges of recruiting and retaining staff in the childcare sector, and the role that flexible working can play in solving this crisis. Here are some of the key findings from the report: * The childcare sector is facing a significant staffing shortage, with many providers struggling to fill vacancies. * Flexible working arrangements can help to attract and retain staff, by making it easier for people to balance their work and family commitments. * There are a number of benefits to flexible working for childcare providers, including reduced staff turnover, improved staff morale, and a more diverse workforce. If you're a childcare provider, this report is a must-read. It's packed with practical tips and advice on how to implement flexible working arrangements in your setting. You can download the report here: https://lnkd.in/ez9S8cSA #earlyyears #childcare #flexibleworking Let's work together to create a childcare sector that works for everyone!

I saw this map, which said it costs $488/month for childcare for 1 kid in TN. My real-world research says it's $1,425/month for my 3-year old. Maps like these show a single, simple number. And that can be dangerous. I had to dig to find that this map (currently being shared widely) is based on data from 2016. So I looked up current childcare costs, and found that today, care for a 4-year old is $622, and an infant is $728 per month in TN. (Economic Policy Institute) And that STILL doesn't make sense based on my real-world experience trying to find care for my real-world kid. Here are the prices I found, which average to $1,425/month: Option 1: $305 / week ($1,220 / month) Option 2: $320 / week ($1,280 / month) Option 3: $350 / week ($1,400 / month) Option 4: $450 / week ($1,800 / month) -- the only option which ensures staff are paid a living wage. The CHEAPEST 5-day option I found was a church ministry that has a half-day program (25 hours / week) for $660/month. I think it's important when we see a pretty map like this, with very simple numbers, to take a moment and gut check. Maybe do a little research (gasp!) Because $1,425 is a lot more than $488. $1,425 is also a lot more than EPI's "current" data of $622/month. If we don't take the time to understand the true cost, and the other factors that parents must consider (is it quality care? Is it within driving distance? Does it cover the hours a parent needs in order to work? Is it worth the wage tradeoff based on local earnings?), we end up not understanding the real challenge of working parents. We do simple math, come up with simple understanding, and create "simple" solutions --- which don't end up solving what is actually a very complex situation. I know that I'm a sample size of 1. I'm sure the EPI used some big data set to come up with their averages, and there is probably a good research basis for the state average cost of childcare at $622 / month. But to everyone that relies on big data to set policy, programs, and calls to action -- just remember that stories of real people navigating real challenges in real time really, really matters -- and could make all the difference. Talk to your people. Find out what they need. That usually works best. #childcarecrisis #workingparents #employeevoice #workervoice #data

Tenants in high-demand, non-discretionary sectors is a factor that is critical for a successful long-term commercial property portfolio. Childcare is one of those sectors, which is why we have five high quality childcare providers in our current portfolio. It's fantastic to see the strength and outlook of this industry highlighted.

📊 The Aus Childcare Industry: Growth and Opportunity Snapshot 🚀 The number of Centre-Based Care facilities in Australia has grown significantly over the past decade, from 6,268 centres in 2013 to 9,273 in 2024—averaging a 3.6% growth rate annually! 📈(1)(2) But it’s not just about the numbers. The market is evolving: ✅ The sector has moved from oversupply to a more balanced state thanks to strong demographics and childcare subsidies. ⚠️ However, localized oversupply still exists in metro and developing areas, where returns are often higher. The sector remains fragmented, with independent operators making up 80% of the market. Yet, consolidation is on the rise as larger players scale through acquisitions and new developments. The remaining 20% of the market can be split between 7 big operators, with Goodstart Early Learning (8.3% market share) and G8 Education (5.3%) the two largest (1) 🔑 🌟 Private equity is paying attention! With M&A activity heating up, the industry is primed for more consolidation and growth as lager for-profit players acquire smaller competitors. We're set to unpack market & investment analysis and much much more at the Childcare & Early Learning Real Estate Summit 2025 - Give me a follow to keep up to date!

Navigating Childcare Challenges and Celebrating Success: From Daycare Owner to Consultant With over 20 years in the childcare industry, one of the biggest challenges I faced as a daycare owner was staffing. This issue is just as critical for many of my clients at the Child Care Success Company. The Staffing Struggle Staffing in childcare isn't just about filling positions but finding the right people. Generational differences impact work ethic, salary expectations, and benefits. Younger employees value work-life balance and professional growth, while experienced workers prioritize job security and benefits. Addressing Salary and Compensation The traditionally low-paying childcare industry makes attracting quality staff difficult. Competitive wages are essential, but so are creative compensation methods like professional development opportunities and performance-based bonuses. Evolving Work Ethic Today’s work ethic focuses on impact rather than hours worked. Leaders must adapt by emphasizing results and outcomes. Core Values and Hiring Hiring based on core values ensures team members are a good cultural fit, aligning with the mission and vision of the organization. The Always Hiring Policy An "always hiring" policy helps build a pipeline of qualified candidates, reducing the stress of unexpected staff turnover. While staffing is a perpetual challenge, understanding generational differences, addressing salary concerns, adapting to evolving work ethics, hiring based on core values, and maintaining an always hiring policy can build strong, resilient teams. These teams are crucial for our business success and the quality care and education our children deserve. Facing similar challenges in your childcare business? Let’s work together to create strategies that will help your team thrive.

Attention Childcare Operators! If you are considering buying a site to develop a childcare centre, or if you have a site, knowing how licensing and planning rules will impact the number of children achievable on your proposed site is important, however, this is only part of the equation. There are other vital considerations regarding any potential upcoming centres, quality of competition, demographic opportunities, or potential longer-term issues. Quality research is the backbone to success for all property developments, this is why operators like you rely on our expertise at Mollard Property Group to ensure every box is checked! We understand the unique challenges that come with identifying if a site is suitable for a childcare business and that not just any location will work. In today’s competitive market, the location can make or break your success. That's where we come in. Our comprehensive Childcare Needs Assessment Modelling and Financial Feasibility Study ensures that your chosen site is not only viable but primed for success. From town planning to licensing, demographics to financial viability, we leave no stone unturned. With over 40 childcare centre projects nationwide and a flawless track record of 100% success in DA approvals, we're the experts you can trust. If you have a site, you currently own or if you have a site you’re considering, before you act, ensure you obtain independent quality advice upfront. Our vast experience will save you considerable time and money. Don't leave your success to chance. Partner with Mollard Property Group and make informed decisions that set your childcare business up for success! #MollardPropertyGroup #earlylearning #BeTheCentreOfAttention #ChildcareCentre #Childcare #EarlyLearning #opportunity #development #ChildcareInvestment #SecureYourFuture #InvestmentSuccess #ChildcareDevelopment #UnlockPotential #ProvenExpertise #MinimiseRisks #LucrativeVenture #ExpertiseYouCanTrust #ChildcareDevelopment #ChildcareExperts #ChooseWisely #MollardPropertyGroup

📢 Productivity Commission's ECEC Report: Implications for the Childcare Real Estate Sector! 📢 Currently putting the final touches to The Childcare & Early Learning Real Estate Summit 2025 - (agenda reveal soon!) One theme that popped up in many of my conversations about the summit was the Productivity Commission's report, "A Path to Universal Early Childhood Education and Care". It’s a pretty hefty read. Luckily I had the chance to connect with some great minds to discuss what possible implications the proposed framework might have for the childcare sector from a real estate perspective. I wanted to share some key thoughts on the back of those conversations... 🏗️ Rising Demand for New Facilities Universal ECEC could drive a need for new centres, particularly in underserved areas where ECEC has historically been limited. Investors, developers & operators will need to employ demographic and population analysis to understand where the best opportunities exist. 🔍 Higher Quality Standards & Compliance With a focus on quality, facilities may need to meet stricter National Quality Standard (NQS) benchmarks, creating both opportunities and challenges in terms of renovation and operational costs. Properties that align with these standards could command premium value. 💼 Opportunities for Public-Private Partnerships The report recommends creating an ECEC Development Fund and additional funding for new childcare facilities in underserved areas, fostering public-private partnerships. Could we see developers accessing grants or low-interest loans to build or refurbish facilities in such areas? 📈 Higher Valuations & Investment Yields Increased demand for childcare services could raise the value of existing properties and rental incomes. As demand grows, cap rates may compress, boosting valuations for high-quality, in-demand assets. Properties that meet evolving standards may offer higher returns and tenant retention. The framework is of course only a recommendation at this point in time, thus the real implications will become transparent once we are aware what policy options are adopted and in what time frame. Keen to follow this? We will be dissecting the implications of the report and any policy changes at The Childcare & Early Learning Real Estate Summit. Keep an eye out for our agenda reveal over the next couple of weeks! 

🔑 Stay Ahead in Childcare Real Estate! 4 Must-Read Reports from the Industries Leading Agencies 🏢 The childcare real estate sector in Australia is booming—here are 4 essential reports that will give you the inside scoop on what’s driving the market right now! Whether you're an investor, operator, or just interested in the space, these insights will keep you ahead of the curve. 🚀 1) 2024 Australian Childcare Real Estate Investment Overview (Cushman & Wakefield) Author - Jake Mckinnon What's inside: Our latest report uncovers the sector’s growth potential, from key demographic trends to market drivers. Dives into revenue projections, transaction volumes, and also highlights potential barriers that could affect the market. Access the report here > cushwk.co/4hNl0pZ 2) The Childcare Report Edition 6 (CBRE) Authors - Jimmy Tat, Sandro Peluso & Marcello Caspani-Muto Inside: Uncovers why the sector is still growing, with insights on revenue, profit margins, and how it’s performing in terms of transactions and returns. Plus, it covers leasing activity and some of the innovative trends shaping the future of childcare real estate. Access the report here > bit.ly/3UJG86s 3) Early Education Insights Report (Burgess Rawson) Authors Michael Vanstone, Natalie Couper & Adam Thomas Inside: Analysis of key childcare property investment trends across different regions, as well as insights into occupancy rates, rental growth, and investor sentiment. Access the report here > bit.ly/3CkuwQW 4) Childcare Market Update Western Australia (Colliers) Author - Yashwini Halai Inside: Delves into the dynamics of the childcare market, offering insights into recent market trends, demand catalysts, significant barriers, key industry players, and notable transactions in Western Australia. Access the report here > bit.ly/40Jge6H As the demand for quality childcare services continues to rise, staying informed is the key to identifying successful investment opportunities in this sector. 📊💡 Which of these reports do you find most valuable? Or do you have any other go-to resources for understanding the childcare real estate space?