Target Information

Nordian has sold its majority stake in Jumpsquare Group to EREN Groupe, the parent company of the French counterpart You Jump. Jumpsquare Group, which operates under the brands Jumpsquare and JumpXL, has emerged as the market leader in the Netherlands and Belgium in recent years, while also expanding in Germany. The merger with You Jump, the leading French operator with 24 locations, will create a robust European network with over 50 indoor activity centers. Both organizations, with offices in Den Bosch and Biot in France, will continue to operate independently.

Joost Sars, Managing Partner at Nordian, expressed pride in the growth and development of Jumpsquare Group. He stated that their collaboration with the Jumpsquare team has been rewarding, especially given the challenges posed by the pandemic. Early after Nordian's acquisition, Sars played a pivotal role as CEO in building the company's foundation, particularly through the acquisition of JumpXL, which doubled the number of parks. Following Roland's appointment, the growth accelerated significantly, leading to the establishment of a strong organization focused on customer-centric culture and the expansion of services including dining, various jumping lessons, children's parties, and other activities. Jumpsquare Group is poised for a new phase of growth, and Nordian believes You Jump is the right partner for this journey.

Industry Overview in the Netherlands

The indoor activity industry in the Netherlands has seen considerable growth, driven by rising consumer demand for entertainment options that promote physical activity. The emergence of brands like Jumpsquare has redefined recreational activities, offering unique experiences for families and children, while also encouraging a healthier lifestyle. As the market shifts towards more interactive and engaging experiences, companies are increasingly focused on integrating technology into their offerings.

In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to the industry, leading to temporary closures and reduced customer traffic. However, many businesses showed resilience and adapted by implementing enhanced safety protocols and diversifying their services. This adaptability has helped to maintain consumer interest, and many players in the industry have reported a strong recovery as restrictions eased.

Germany and Belgium are also important markets, exhibiting similar growth patterns with an emphasis on family-oriented entertainment. Companies have recognized the value of collaboration and mergers to enhance their competitive edge and expand their footprint across Europe. The formation of a larger entity through the alliance of Jumpsquare Group and You Jump will enhance market share and provide customers with a broader range of services.

Rationale Behind the Deal

The primary motivation behind this transaction is to leverage the strengths of both Jumpsquare Group and You Jump to create a market leader in the indoor activity sector across Europe. By pooling resources, knowledge, and operational expertise, the combined entity aims to enhance its service offerings, streamline operations, and achieve greater economies of scale. This strategic partnership is expected to drive further growth and innovation in the sector, ultimately benefiting consumers through expanded services and improved experiences.

Investor Information

EREN Groupe is a family-owned investment firm with a strong focus on technological innovations in the energy transition sector. In addition to its investments in various tech companies, EREN's sports division is dedicated to encouraging active participation in sports. The company's portfolio includes You Jump and the globally recognized Patrick Mouratoglou Tennis Academy & Resort located near Nice, France. EREN Grupo's commitment to supporting sustainable and active lifestyles aligns well with Jumpsquare Group’s mission of promoting movement among children.

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This acquisition represents a significant opportunity for both Jumpsquare Group and You Jump to expand their influence in the indoor activity sector. The combined strengths of these organizations, including their customer-focused cultures and operational expertise, are expected to create a powerful competitive advantage in the marketplace. With a shared vision of promoting active lifestyles among children, the collaboration will likely enhance service offerings and improve operational efficiencies.

The pandemic has underscored the importance of adaptability in this industry, and both companies have demonstrated their resilience during challenging times. Their collaborative efforts can lead to the introduction of innovative solutions and improved park performance, ensuring continued growth and success.

Furthermore, the strategic geographic presence of both companies allows for effective cross-promotional initiatives and a broader reach. This merger not only signifies a step towards market consolidation but also positions the new entity to capture a larger share of the expanding indoor entertainment market in Europe.

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