Embark Early Education revises takeover timeline for Mayfield Childcare

Embark Early Education Limited (ASX: EVO) has updated the market on the progress of its proposed conditional off-market takeover bid for Mayfield Childcare Limited (ASX: MFD), confirming a revised timeline for key regulatory milestones.

The Offer, announced on 7 November 2025, seeks to acquire all ordinary shares in Mayfield Childcare Limited that Embark does not already own. Embark’s strategic move aims to expand its national footprint in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector by integrating Mayfield’s network of early learning services into its growing portfolio.

In a further announcement issued on 21 November 2025, Embark advised that it is still in the process of finalising its Bidder’s Statement, a key regulatory document outlining the terms and conditions of the proposed acquisition. As a result, the Company has revised the indicative dates initially provided.

The lodgement of the Bidder’s Statement with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), which was previously scheduled for 24 November 2025, is now expected to occur no later than 19 December 2025. Similarly, the dispatch of the Bidder’s Statement to Mayfield shareholders, originally due by 9 December 2025, has been postponed to no later than 5 January 2026.

The revision allows additional time to ensure all documentation complies with regulatory requirements and reflects the complexity of the transaction. Embark has reiterated its commitment to progressing the Offer in accordance with corporate law and good governance practices.

The proposed acquisition marks a significant moment in the ECEC sector, reflecting a trend towards consolidation as providers seek scale, operational efficiencies and increased market share. If successful, the transaction would unite two ASX-listed early learning operators, both with established reputations and a shared focus on delivering high-quality education and care outcomes.

Embark Early Education operates a network of services across Australia, with a focus on educational leadership, community engagement and sustainable practice. Mayfield Childcare, also an ASX-listed provider, operates services primarily in Victoria and Queensland, with a strong emphasis on local management and family-centred programs.

A completed transaction would potentially result in one of the larger early learning groups listed on the ASX by service numbers, offering enhanced opportunities for workforce development, service innovation and investor engagement.

Under Australian corporate law, the Bidder’s Statement must be lodged with ASIC before it can be distributed to shareholders. The document will detail the terms of the Offer, including consideration, conditions, strategic rationale and how shareholders can respond.

Once the Bidder’s Statement is dispatched, Mayfield shareholders will have a specified period in which to consider the Offer. Mayfield Childcare Limited is expected to respond with a formal Target’s Statement, which will include the company’s recommendation to shareholders.

Embark has encouraged interested stakeholders to review the forthcoming documentation carefully once released and to seek independent financial or legal advice where appropriate.

Read the company announcement here.