As the working world continues to evolve, so too do the pathways into business ownership. Traditional career routes are no longer the only option, and younger people are increasingly finding different ways to build successful, sustainable businesses earlier in life. One avenue that continues to grow in appeal is franchising.
As highlighted by the BFA: “Bringing in individuals under 30 injects fresh energy, digital fluency and bold thinking into business, especially franchises – qualities that don’t just adapt to change, but drive it.”1
Back in 2021, they also noted a visible shift in the make-up of the annual Franchisee of the Year Awards audience: “…not just in terms of them getting younger, but that they seem to be even more passionate about what they are doing, and more ambitious, than their contemporaries of 10 years ago.”2
And nearly five years on from those observations, the trend of younger franchisees entering the sector shows no sign of slowing. It’s a fantastic opportunity for all kinds of people, allowing them to find fulfilling careers as business owners.
Franchise growth from within Banana Moon
At Banana Moon, one of the most encouraging developments we’re seeing is the number of younger Nursery Managers stepping up into Director roles. While this transition remains relatively rare within the early years sector as a whole, our team are well ahead of the trend.
We’ve seen a clear increase in younger franchise Directors, alongside new franchisees in their 30s actively preparing to open their first settings. These amazing individuals bring fresh thinking, energy and a long-term vision for growth.
We believe that getting involved with a franchise at a younger age offers many benefits to aspiring entrepreneurs. They can pursue the dream of owning their own business while having our support to help them achieve success. It also provides long-term security and allows them to start building and growing their portfolio earlier.
Our Banana Moon Training Academy plays a central role in this process, helping our team build sector knowledge and develop leadership skills at no extra cost. We know that the success and development of our franchisees’ businesses doesn’t stop once they have been onboarded, and it’s important to us that our franchisees can access this industry-specific training.
Training is offered in three formats – online, at our Franchise Support Office and on location – ensuring accessibility for all franchisees. We create a schedule of regular training sessions each quarter, covering topics from recruitment and retention to safeguarding and child safety refreshers and beyond. Plus, our webinars address essential operational areas, such as transitions, allergy management and purposeful observations, and much more. By combining hands-on experience, mentoring and structured learning, the training academy prepares you to step confidently into Director or franchise roles, fully equipped to succeed.
Celebrating franchise journeys at Banana Moon
Two standout examples at Banana Moon are Amanda Penny and Jag Kaur, both of whom are between 30 and 40 and began their careers as a Nursery Manager and an Early Years Professional and have since become franchise Directors.
Amanda started her Banana Moon journey as a Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Dyce (Banana Moon’s first Scottish nursery) and has since progressed to become Director of six nurseries, with the network continuing to grow year on year.
As she personally reflects on her journey, Amanda says: “Looking back, it has been a journey of learning, resilience and growth. What makes it particularly special to me is that I have been part of the entire journey, from helping prepare the nursery before it opened, to managing the setting for many years and now supporting multiple nurseries as Operational Director. Seeing how far we have come, from opening our very first nursery to building a strong network of settings across Scotland, is something I feel incredibly proud of.”
We want to celebrate stories like these and share them as a source of inspiration for others who are at the start of their journey, like Amanda and Jag once were.
Looking ahead for future franchisees
We’re extremely encouraged by the increasing numbers and seeing more managers stepping into ownership roles as the appeal of franchising as a viable and exciting career continues to grow.
For those at the beginning of their professional journey, franchising offers something unique: the chance to build a business, gain independence and create long-term security – all with the backing of an established brand.
At Banana Moon, we understand what it takes to become a successful nursery owner. That’s why we provide comprehensive, hands-on support at every stage, empowering our franchisees with the knowledge, tools and confidence needed to thrive.
Identifying an area of challenge on her own journey, Amanda said: “Operating in Scotland does sometimes present differences compared with England, particularly in relation to regulatory requirements, but the franchise has been very open to adapting and learning alongside us. That willingness to understand and support the Scottish sector has been incredibly valuable.”
The childcare sector is large and rapidly expanding, and joining us gives franchisees the opportunity to own a profitable, long-term business with strong foundations. From day one, franchisees receive expert guidance and ongoing support to successfully operate their own Banana Moon Day Nursery – giving them the best possible opportunity for sustained success.
Why franchise with Banana Moon?
• Growing brand – Banana Moon have achieved an average 12% UK growth year on year, demonstrating strong market demand and a proven track record of success. Joining our network means becoming part of a brand that is recognised, trusted and continuously expanding.
• Strong investment opportunity – With a minimum average total investment of £450,000, Banana Moon offer a business opportunity with clear financial potential. Franchisees benefit from a scalable model designed to deliver sustainable returns over the long term.
• Dedicated support team – Our experienced support team work closely with every nursery, ensuring it remains compliant with all regulations, meets operational standards and reaches its full potential. From marketing guidance to operational advice, we provide hands-on assistance every step of the way.
• BFA accredited – As a proud full member of the British Franchise Association, Banana Moon uphold the highest industry standards. This accreditation reflects our commitment to ethical franchising practices, transparency and ongoing support for our franchisees.
• Established family business – At Banana Moon, we operate with a caring, family-first ethos. We understand the importance of trust, community and values-driven leadership – principles that are woven into every aspect of our business and culture.
• Continuous, high-value training – Franchisees receive comprehensive initial and ongoing training covering business management, operational procedures and early years education. Our structured training programme equips franchisees with the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to run a successful nursery and adapt as the market grows.
Talking from her own franchisee experience as part of Banana Moon, Amanda said: “The support from the Banana Moon network has been incredibly valuable throughout my journey and continues to be today. Being part of a franchise means you are never navigating challenges alone, and there is always someone you can reach out to for advice, guidance or simply to talk things through.”
If you’re interested in franchising with us here at Banana Moon, check out our website for full details here and start the conversation with us today.
1The BFA. Young Guns. Available at: www.thebfa.org/bfa-campaigns/young-guns (Accessed 16 December 2025).
2The BFA (2021). Franchising is a world of opportunity for young people. Available at: www.thebfa.org/expert-advice-zone/franchising-is-a-world-of-opportunity-for-young-people/ (Accessed 16 December 2025).
