Because of these limitations, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted income from operations, and adjusted net income should not be considered as discretionary cash available to us to reinvest in the growth of our business or as measures of cash that will be available to us to meet our obligations. 41 Table of Contents Liquidity and Capital Resources Our primary cash requirements are for the ongoing operations of our existing early education and child care centers, back-up care, educational advisory services, the addition of new centers through development or acquisitions, and debt financing obligations.
Because of these limitations, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted income from operations, and adjusted net income should not be considered as discretionary cash available to us to reinvest in the growth of our business or as measures of cash that will be available to us to meet our obligations. 40 Table of Contents Liquidity and Capital Resources Our primary cash requirements are for the ongoing operations of our existing early education and child care centers, back-up care, educational advisory services, the addition of new centers through development or acquisitions, and debt financing obligations.
Refer to Note 12, Credit Arrangements and Debt Obligations , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information on our debt and credit arrangements, future principal payments of long-term debt, and covenant requirements. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Refer to Note 11, Credit Arrangements and Debt Obligations , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information on our debt and credit arrangements, future principal payments of long-term debt, and covenant requirements. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
If the transaction price may be subject to adjustment, significant judgment may be required to ensure that it is probable that significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, there were no material estimates related to the constraint of cumulative revenue recognized.
If the transaction price may be subject to adjustment, significant judgment may be required to ensure that it is probable that significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, there were no material estimates related to the constraint of cumulative revenue recognized.
For discussion and comparison for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on February 27, 2024.
For discussion and comparison for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on February 27, 2025.
The application of these policies to the services provided by each of our segments is discussed below. 44 Table of Contents Our revenue recognition policy generally does not have significant judgments or estimates that significantly affect the determination of the amount, the allocation of the transaction price to performance obligations, or timing of revenue from contracts with customers.
The application of these policies to the services provided by each of our segments is discussed below. Our revenue recognition policy generally does not have significant judgments or estimates that significantly affect the determination of the amount, the allocation of the transaction price to performance obligations, or timing of revenue from contracts with customers.
If the projected revenues and profitability used in the valuation calculations are not met, then the intangible assets could be impaired. Our multi-year contracts with client customers typically result in low annual turnover, and our long-term relationships with clients make it difficult for competitors to displace us.
If the projected revenues and profitability used in the valuation calculations are not met, then the intangible assets could be impaired. Our multi-year contracts with employer-clients typically result in low annual turnover, and our long-term relationships with clients make it difficult for competitors to displace us.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations generally discusses our results of operations for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 and provides comparisons between such fiscal years.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations generally discusses our results of operations for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 and provides comparisons between such fiscal years.
Refer to Note 15, Stockholders’ Equity and Stock-based Compensation , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional details.
Refer to Note 14, Stockholders’ Equity and Stock-based Compensation , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional details.
Based on our current interest rate projections, we estimate that our overall weighted average interest rate will approximate 5.00% for 2025, inclusive of the effects of cash flow hedges.
Based on our current interest rate projections, we estimate that our overall weighted average interest rate will approximate 5.00% for 2026, inclusive of the effects of cash flow hedges.
Operations outside of North America accounted for 28% and 27% of our consolidated revenue for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The net impact on our liquidity from changes in foreign currency exchange rates was not material for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
Operations outside of North America accounted for 29% and 28% of our consolidated revenue for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The net impact on our liquidity from changes in foreign currency exchange rates was not material for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024.
The difference between the effective income tax rates as compared to the statutory income tax rates was primarily due to the impact of unbenefited losses in certain foreign jurisdictions and the effects of excess (shortfall) tax benefit (expense) associated with the exercise or expiration of stock options and vesting of restricted stock.
The difference between the effective income tax rates as compared to the statutory income tax rates was primarily due to the impact of unbenefited losses and net operating loss carryforwards used in certain foreign jurisdictions and the effects of excess tax benefit (shortfall tax expense) associated with the exercise or expiration of stock options and vesting of restricted stock.
At December 31, 2024, we managed child care centers on behalf of single employers in the following industries and also managed lease/consortium locations in approximately the following proportions: Percentage of Centers Classification North America International Employer locations: Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals 20.0 % 2.0 % Government and Higher Education 12.5 2.0 Financial Services 7.5 2.0 Consumer 7.5 — Technology 5.0 — Professional Services and Other 5.0 — Industrial/Manufacturing 2.5 1.0 60.0 7.0 Lease/consortium locations 40.0 93.0 100.0 % 100.0 % Our reportable segments are comprised of (1) full service center-based child care, (2) back-up care, and (3) educational advisory services.
At December 31, 2025, we managed child care centers on behalf of single employers in the following industries and also managed lease/consortium locations in approximately the following proportions: Percentage of Centers Classification North America Outside North America Employer locations: Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals 22.5 % 2.0 % Government and Higher Education 12.5 2.0 Financial Services 7.5 2.0 Consumer 7.5 — Professional Services and Other 5.0 — Industrial/Manufacturing 2.5 1.0 Technology 2.5 — 60.0 7.0 Lease/consortium locations 40.0 93.0 100.0 % 100.0 % 34 Table of Contents Our reportable segments are comprised of (1) full service center-based child care, (2) back-up care, and (3) educational advisory services.
However, if we were to experience disruption from events not in our control, such as a global health crisis, or if we were to undertake any significant acquisitions or make investments in the purchase of facilities for new or existing centers, we could require financing beyond our existing cash and borrowing capacity, and it could be necessary for us to obtain additional debt or equity financing.
However, if we were to experience disruption from events not in our control or if we were to undertake any significant acquisitions or make investments in the purchase of facilities for new or existing centers, we could require financing beyond our existing cash and borrowing capacity, and it could be necessary for us to obtain additional debt or equity financing.
The blended weighted average interest rates for the term loans and revolving credit facility were 4.88% and 4.11% for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, inclusive of the effects of cash flow hedges.
The blended weighted average interest rates for the term loans and revolving credit facility were 4.42% and 4.88% for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, inclusive of the effects of cash flow hedges.
Gross profit margin was 23% of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024, a 1% increase compared to 22% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (“SGA”).
Gross profit margin was 24% of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2025, a 1% increase compared to 23% for the year ended December 31, 2024. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (“SGA”).
In performing the goodwill impairment test, we may first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value.
Goodwill impairment assessments are performed at the reporting unit level. In performing the goodwill impairment test, we may first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value.
Adjusted net income increased $38.9 million, or 24%, for the year ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023, primarily due to the increase in adjusted income from operations and lower interest expense. 39 Table of Contents Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Reconciliation In our quarterly and annual reports, earnings press releases and conference calls, we discuss key financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with GAAP to supplement our consolidated financial statements presented on a GAAP basis.
Adjusted net income increased $58.3 million, or 29%, for the year ended December 31, 2025 when compared to the same period in 2024, primarily due to the increase in adjusted income from operations and lower interest expense and effective tax rate. 38 Table of Contents Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Reconciliation In our quarterly and annual reports, earnings press releases and conference calls, we discuss key financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with GAAP to supplement our consolidated financial statements presented on a GAAP basis.
Based on our current interest rate projections, we estimate that our overall weighted average interest rate will approximate 5.00% for 2025 inclusive of the effects of cash flow hedges. 38 Table of Contents Income Tax Expense.
Based on our current interest rate projections, we estimate that our overall weighted average interest rate will approximate 5.00% for 2026 inclusive of the effects of cash flow hedges. Income Tax Expense.
Based on the interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2024, interest payments on the outstanding principal balance of the term loans, including commitment fees on the revolving credit facility, are expected to range between $30 million and $60 million annually over the remaining term, prior to the inclusion of the effects of cash flow hedges.
Based on the interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2025, interest payments on the outstanding principal balance of the term loan B, including commitment fees on the revolving credit facility, are expected to range between $20 million and $30 million annually over the remaining term, prior to the inclusion of the effects of cash flow hedges.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we made payments for deferred and contingent consideration of $103.9 million, of which $97.7 million related to the deferred consideration for the 2022 acquisition of Only About Children and $6.2 million related to the contingent consideration for a 2021 acquisition, compared to $0.2 million for payments of contingent consideration during the same period in 2023.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we made payments for deferred and contingent consideration of $103.9 million, of which $97.7 million related to the deferred consideration for the 2022 acquisition of Only About Children and $6.2 million related to the contingent consideration for a 2021 acquisition.
Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted income from operations increased $57.2 million, or 16%, and $65.2 million, or 31%, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2024 over the comparable period in 2023 primarily due to the incremental gross profit contributions from the full service center-based child care segment resulting from enrollment growth and tuition price increases and from the back-up care segment resulting from increased utilization.
Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted income from operations increased $78.2 million, or 19%, and $85.7 million, or 31%, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2025 over the comparable period in 2024 primarily due to the incremental gross profit contributions from the back-up care segment resulting from increased utilization and from the full service center-based child care segment resulting from tuition price increases and enrollment growth.
(f) Adjusted income tax expense represents income tax expense calculated on adjusted income before income tax at an effective tax rate of approximately 28% for each of the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
(f) Adjusted income tax expense represents income tax expense calculated on adjusted income before income tax at an effective tax rate of approximately 27% and 28% for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
As we continue to navigate this dynamic operating environment, we remain committed to serving the needs of families, clients and our employees. We are confident in our value proposition, business model, the strength of our client partnerships, the strength of our balance sheet and liquidity position, and our ability to continue to respond to changing market conditions.
We are committed to serving the needs of families, clients and our employees. We are confident in our value proposition, business model, the strength of our client partnerships, the strength of our balance sheet and liquidity position, and our ability to continue to respond to changing market conditions.
Our primary sources of liquidity are our existing cash, cash flows from operations, and borrowings available under our revolving credit facility.
Our primary sources of liquidity are our existing cash, cash flows from operations, and borrowings available under our $900 million multi-currency revolving credit facility.
Tuition revenue increased by $166.3 million, or 10%, when compared to the prior year, due to a 4% net increase in enrollment and average tuition rate increases at our child care centers of approximately 5%.
Tuition revenue increased by $114.8 million, or 6%, when compared to the prior year, due to average tuition rate increases at our child care centers of approximately 4-5% and a 1% net increase in enrollment.
We have other significant accounting policies that are more fully described in Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Both our critical and significant accounting policies are important to an understanding of the consolidated financial statements.
We have other significant accounting policies that are more fully described in Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Educational Advisory Services Our educational advisory services consist of tuition assistance and student loan repayment program management, workforce education, and related educational consulting services (“EdAssist”), and college admissions and college financing advisory services (“College Coach”).
Educational Advisory Services Our educational advisory services consist of tuition assistance and student loan repayment program management, workforce education, and related educational consulting services (EdAssist), and college admissions and college financing advisory services (College Coach).
The effective income tax rate would have approximated 27% and 28% for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, prior to the inclusion of the excess (shortfall) tax benefit (expense), other discrete items, and unbenefited losses in certain foreign jurisdictions. Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Income from Operations.
The effective income tax rate would have approximated 27% for each of the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, prior to the inclusion of the excess tax benefit (shortfall tax expense), other discrete items and unbenefited losses/net operating loss utilization in certain foreign jurisdictions. Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Income from Operations.
Specifically, adjusted EBITDA allows for an assessment of our operating performance and of our ability to service or incur indebtedness without the effect of non-cash charges, such as depreciation, amortization, and stock-based compensation expense, and non-recurring costs, such as impairment losses, debt refinance costs, value-added tax expense related to prior periods and at times, other non-recurring costs, such as transaction costs.
Specifically, adjusted EBITDA allows for an assessment of our operating performance and of our ability to service or incur indebtedness without the effect of non-cash charges, such as depreciation, amortization, and stock-based compensation expense, and non-recurring costs, such as impairment and net lease termination costs, debt refinance costs and at times, other non-recurring costs, such as transaction costs.
Customer relationships are considered to be finite-lived assets, with estimated lives typically ranging from 2 to 17 years. Certain trade names acquired as part of our strategy to expand by completing strategic acquisitions are considered to be finite-lived assets, with estimated lives typically ranging from 2 to 10 years. Goodwill and certain trade names are considered to be indefinite-lived assets.
Certain trade names acquired as part of our strategy to expand by completing strategic acquisitions are considered to be finite-lived assets, with estimated lives typically ranging from 4 to 10 years. 45 Table of Contents Goodwill and certain trade names are considered to be indefinite-lived assets.
The transaction price of a contract is allocated to each distinct performance obligation using the relative stand-alone selling price and recognized as revenue when, or as, control of the service is passed to the customer.
At contract inception, we assess the services promised in the contract and identify each distinct performance obligation. The transaction price of a contract is allocated to each distinct performance obligation using the relative stand-alone selling price and recognized as revenue when, or as, control of the service is passed to the customer.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded impairment charges for long-lived assets of $30.9 million related to fixed assets, operating lease right-of-use assets and intangibles.
During the year ended December 31, 2025, we recorded impairment charges for long-lived assets of $47.5 million related to fixed assets and operating lease right-of-use assets.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, impairment losses recognized in the fourth quarter totaled $30.3 million, of which $29.2 million related to the full service center-based child care segment and $1.1 million related to the back-up care segment.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, impairment and net lease termination costs totaled $30.3 million, of which $29.2 million related to the full service center-based child care segment and $1.1 million related to the back-up care segment.
The increase in cost of services correlates to the increase in revenue and is primarily associated with higher care provider fees generated by the increase in utilization levels of center-based and in-home back-up care over the prior year, and continued investment in personnel, marketing and technology to support our customer user experience and service offerings.
The increase in cost of services correlates to the increase in revenue and is primarily associated with provider fees to serve the increase in utilization levels of center-based care, in-home care, and school-age programs over the prior year, and continued investment in technology to support our customer user experience and service offerings.
However, actual interest paid may be different from these estimates based on changes in interest rates and borrowings outstanding. The term loan A and the revolving credit facility require Bright Horizons Family Solutions LLC, the borrower, and its restricted subsidiaries to comply with a maximum first lien net leverage ratio.
However, actual interest paid may be different from these estimates based on changes in interest rates and borrowings outstanding. The revolving credit facility requires Bright Horizons Family Solutions LLC, the borrower and its restricted subsidiaries to comply with a maximum first lien net leverage ratio. A breach of this covenant is subject to certain equity cure rights.
We recorded an income tax expense of $57.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2024, at an effective income tax rate of 29%, compared to income tax expense of $45.4 million, at an effective income tax rate of 38%, during the prior year.
We recorded an income tax expense of $76.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2025, at an effective income tax rate of 28%, compared to income tax expense of $57.7 million, at an effective income tax rate of 29%, during the prior year.
(b) Impairment losses represent impairment costs, primarily for long-lived assets, associated with our annual impairment assessment arising from center closures, changes in market assumptions and reduced operating performance at certain centers.
(b) Impairment and net lease termination costs represent impairment costs, primarily for long-lived assets, arising from center closures, changes in market assumptions and reduced operating performance at certain centers.
In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2024, we had net investments of $95.3 million in fixed asset purchases for maintenance and refurbishments in our existing centers, technology across all segments, and new child care centers, compared to net investments of $90.8 million during the prior year, a net increase of $4.5 million.
In addition, for the year ended December 31, 2025, we had net investments of $91.3 million in fixed asset purchases for maintenance and refurbishments in our existing centers, technology, and new child care centers, compared to net investments of $95.3 million in the prior year, a net decrease of $4.0 million.
We had $110.3 million in cash ($123.7 million including restricted cash) at December 31, 2024, of which $45.5 million was held in foreign jurisdictions, compared to $71.6 million in cash ($89.5 million including restricted cash) at December 31, 2023, of which $32.1 million was held in foreign jurisdictions.
We had $140.1 million in cash ($143.2 million including restricted cash) at December 31, 2025, of which $66.3 million was held in foreign jurisdictions, compared to $110.3 million in cash ($123.7 million including restricted cash) at December 31, 2024, of which $45.5 million was held in foreign jurisdictions.
As we continue growing enrollment, we expect to allocate capital to investments that support current operations and strategic opportunities, as well as the principal and interest payments on our debt, including voluntary prepayments, and revolver, and share repurchases from time to time.
As we continue growing enrollment, expanding sales and increasing utilization of back-up services, we expect to allocate capital to investments that support current operations and strategic opportunities, as well as make interest payments on our debt, voluntary prepayments of principal on our debt and revolver balances and share repurchases from time to time.
The blended weighted average interest rate for the term loans and revolving credit facility was 4.88%, and 4.11% for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, including the impact of the cash flow hedges.
The blended weighted average interest rate for the term loans and revolving credit facility was 4.42%, and 4.88% for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, including the impact of the cash flow hedges. The weighted average interest rate of the Australian uncommitted working capital credit facility was 5.55% for the year ended December 31, 2025.
This cohort of centers totaled 768 centers as of December 31, 2024. For the quarter ended December 31, 2024, 39% of these centers were more than 70% enrolled, 45% were between 40-70% enrolled and 16% were less than 40% enrolled, which reflects improved occupancy when compared to the same period in the prior year.
For the quarter ended December 31, 2025, 40% of these centers were more than 70% enrolled, 48% were between 40-70% enrolled and 12% were less than 40% enrolled, which reflects improved occupancy when compared to the same period in the prior year.
Cost of services increased $179.9 million, or 10%, to $2.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $1.9 billion for the prior year. Cost of services in the full service center-based child care segment increased by $143.2 million, or 9%, to $1.7 billion in the year ended December 31, 2024, when compared to the prior year.
Cost of services in the full service center-based child care segment increased by $116.8 million, or 7%, to $1.8 billion in the year ended December 31, 2025, when compared to the prior year.
A breach of this covenant is subject to certain equity cure rights. The credit agreement governing the senior secured credit facilities contains certain customary affirmative covenants and events of default. We were in compliance with our financial covenant at December 31, 2024.
The credit agreement governing the senior secured credit facilities contains certain customary affirmative covenants and events of default. We were in compliance with our financial covenant at December 31, 2025.
Additional information about our operations, structure and services is included in “ Business — Our Operations ” in Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Additional segment information is included in Note 18, Segment and Geographic Information , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Additional segment information is included in Note 17, Segment and Geographic Information , to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Net purchases of debt securities by our captive insurance entity, using restricted cash, and other investments were $14.2 million in the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to net proceeds of $3.5 million during the prior year, a net increase in cash used of $17.7 million.
Net purchases of debt securities held by our captive insurance entity and other investments were $5.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to net purchases of $14.2 million for the prior year, a net decrease in cash used of $8.5 million.
The impairment is allocated to the long-lived assets on a pro rata basis using the relative carrying amounts, but only to the extent the carrying amount of an asset is above its fair value.
The estimated fair value is determined based on discounting estimated cash flows, including consideration of market rates for leased assets. The impairment is allocated to the long-lived assets on a pro rata basis using the relative carrying amounts, but only to the extent the carrying amount of an asset is above its fair value.
Interest rate cap agreements for $600 million, which had a forward starting effective date of October 31, 2023 and expire on October 31, 2025, provide the Company with interest rate protection in the event the one-month term SOFR rate increases above 2.4%.
In December 2021, we entered into interest rate cap agreements with a total notional value of $900 million. Interest rate cap agreements for $600 million, which had a forward starting effective date of October 31, 2023 and expired on October 31, 2025, provided the Company with interest rate protection in the event the one-month term SOFR rate increased above 2.4%.
Revenue generated by back-up care services in the year ended December 31, 2024 increased by $84.2 million, or 16%, when compared to the prior year. Revenue growth in the back-up care segment was primarily attributable to increased utilization of center-based, in-home and school-age camp back-up care from new and existing clients.
Revenue growth in the back-up care segment was primarily attributable to increased utilization of center-based care, in-home care and school-age programs by new and existing clients. 36 Table of Contents Revenue generated by educational advisory services in the year ended December 31, 2025 increased by $10.4 million, or 9%, when compared to the prior year.
(c) Stock-based compensation expense represents non-cash stock-based compensation expense in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. 40 Table of Contents (d) Other costs in the year ended December 31, 2024 consist of costs incurred in connection with the December 2024 debt refinancing of $0.8 million allocated to the full service center-based child care segment.
(c) Stock-based compensation expense represents non-cash stock-based compensation expense in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. 39 Table of Contents (d) Other costs in the year ended December 31, 2025 consist of $1.3 million related to the August 2025 debt refinancing recorded to selling, general and administrative expenses and allocated to the full service center-based child care segment.
The increase in cash provided by operations primarily relates to the increase in net income of $66.0 million, as well as higher cash provided by working capital arising from the timing of billings and payments when compared to the prior year.
The increase in cash provided by operations primarily related to the increase in net income of $52.9 million, partially offset by changes in working capital arising from the timing of billings and payments when compared to the prior year.
Revenue increased by $267.8 million, or 11%, to $2.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $2.4 billion for the prior year.
Year Ended December 31, 2025 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2024 Revenue. Revenue increased by $247.6 million, or 9%, to $2.9 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $2.7 billion for the prior year.
Cash Flows Years Ended December 31, 2024 2023 (In thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 337,462 $ 256,140 Net cash used in investing activities $ (117,764) $ (126,936) Net cash used in financing activities $ (183,814) $ (91,633) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — beginning of year $ 89,451 $ 51,894 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — end of year $ 123,715 $ 89,451 42 Table of Contents Cash Provided by Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities was $337.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $256.1 million for 2023.
Cash Flows Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 (In thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 350,726 $ 337,462 Net cash used in investing activities $ (103,794) $ (117,764) Net cash used in financing activities $ (233,428) $ (183,814) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — beginning of year $ 123,715 $ 89,451 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — end of year $ 143,158 $ 123,715 41 Table of Contents Cash Provided by Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities was $350.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to $337.5 million for 2024.
We believe that funds provided by operations, our existing cash balances and borrowings available under our revolving credit facility will be adequate to fund all obligations and liquidity requirements for at least the next 12 months.
All repurchased shares have been retired, and at December 31, 2025, $329.4 million remains available for future repurchases under the Board-approved repurchase program. We believe that funds provided by operations, our existing cash balances and borrowings available under our revolving credit facility will be adequate to fund all obligations and liquidity requirements for at least the next 12 months.
Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are not subject to amortization, but are tested annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment.
Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are not subject to amortization, but are tested annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment. Indefinite lived intangible assets are also subject to an annual evaluation to determine whether events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life.
Our $400 million revolving credit facility is part of our senior secured credit facilities. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, $384.8 million and $380.7 million of the revolving credit facility was available for borrowing, respectively. We had a working capital deficit of $283.4 million and $352.5 million at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
At December 31, 2025 and 2024, $383.7 million and $384.8 million of the revolving credit facility was available for borrowing, respectively. We had a working capital deficit of $462.2 million and $283.4 million at December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Cost of services in the back-up care segment increased by $34.9 million, or 12%, to $322.2 million in the year ended December 31, 2024, when compared to the prior year.
Cost of services in the back-up care segment increased by $51.6 million, or 16%, to $373.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2025, when compared to the prior year.
The increase in cost of services was primarily associated with increased personnel costs related to expanded enrollment and wage rate increases. Personnel costs increased 7% during the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same period in the prior year.
The increase in cost of services was primarily associated with increased personnel costs, an increase of 8% during the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to the prior year, related to average hourly wage rate increases in the range of 3-4%, higher benefits costs, including medical care expenses, and expanded enrollment.
These non-GAAP financial measures of adjusted EBITDA, adjusted income from operations, adjusted net income and diluted adjusted earnings per common share are reconciled from their most directly comparable financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP as follows: Years Ended December 31, 2024 2023 (In thousands, except share data) Net income $ 140,191 $ 74,223 Interest expense — net 48,761 51,609 Income tax expense 57,667 45,409 Depreciation 79,576 77,266 Amortization of intangible assets (a) 18,342 33,415 EBITDA 344,537 281,922 Additional adjustments: Impairment losses (b) 30,299 35,903 Stock-based compensation expense (c) 33,615 28,834 Other costs (d) 835 5,458 Total adjustments 64,749 70,195 Adjusted EBITDA $ 409,286 $ 352,117 Income from operations $ 246,619 $ 171,241 Impairment losses (b) 30,299 35,903 Other costs (d) 835 5,458 Adjusted income from operations $ 277,753 $ 212,602 Net income $ 140,191 $ 74,223 Income tax expense 57,667 45,409 Income before income tax 197,858 119,632 Amortization of intangible assets (a) 18,342 33,415 Impairment losses (b) 30,299 35,903 Stock-based compensation expense (c) 33,615 28,834 Other costs (d) 835 5,458 Interest on deferred consideration (e) — 5,890 Adjusted income before income tax 280,949 229,132 Adjusted income tax expense (f) (77,765) (64,869) Adjusted net income $ 203,184 $ 164,263 Weighted average common shares outstanding — diluted 58,471,566 57,932,574 Diluted adjusted earnings per common share $ 3.47 $ 2.84 (a) Amortization of intangible assets represents amortization expense, including amortization expense of approximately $8.5 million and $20.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, associated with intangible assets recorded in connection with our going private transaction in May 2008.
These non-GAAP financial measures of adjusted EBITDA, adjusted income from operations, adjusted net income and diluted adjusted earnings per common share are reconciled from their most directly comparable financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP as follows: Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 (In thousands, except share data) Net income $ 193,116 $ 140,191 Interest expense — net 44,758 48,761 Income tax expense 76,791 57,667 Depreciation 87,263 79,576 Amortization of intangible assets (a) 6,139 18,342 EBITDA 408,067 344,537 Additional adjustments: Impairment and net lease termination costs (b) 47,467 30,299 Stock-based compensation expense (c) 30,614 33,615 Other costs (d) 1,294 835 Total adjustments 79,375 64,749 Adjusted EBITDA $ 487,442 $ 409,286 Income from operations $ 314,665 $ 246,619 Impairment and net lease termination costs (b) 47,467 30,299 Other costs (d) 1,294 835 Adjusted income from operations $ 363,426 $ 277,753 Net income $ 193,116 $ 140,191 Income tax expense 76,791 57,667 Income before income tax 269,907 197,858 Amortization of intangible assets (a) 6,139 18,342 Impairment and net lease termination costs (b) 47,467 30,299 Stock-based compensation expense (c) 30,614 33,615 Other costs (d) 1,294 835 Other interest costs (e) 2,737 — Adjusted income before income tax 358,158 280,949 Adjusted income tax expense (f) (96,692) (77,765) Adjusted net income $ 261,466 $ 203,184 Weighted average common shares outstanding — diluted 57,422,501 58,471,566 Diluted adjusted earnings per common share $ 4.55 $ 3.47 (a) Amortization of intangible assets represents amortization expense, including amortization expense of approximately $8.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, associated with intangible assets recorded in connection with our going private transaction in May 2008.
SGA increased $27.5 million, or 8%, to $354.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $327.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, due to higher personnel costs, impairment costs of $3.0 million related to the full service center-based child care segment and a $2.3 million charge within the back-up care segment resulting from the early settlement of contingent consideration for a 2021 acquisition.
In addition, SGA for the year ended December 31, 2024 includes net impairment losses of $3.0 million related to the full service center-based child care segment and a $2.3 million charge within the back-up care segment resulting from the early settlement of contingent consideration for a 2021 acquisition, which did not occur in 2025.
The following table summarizes the revenue and percentage of total revenue for each of our segments for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023: Years Ended December 31, 2024 2023 Change 2024 vs 2023 (in thousands, except percentages) Full service center-based child care $ 1,961,785 73.1 % $ 1,780,615 73.6 % $ 181,170 10.2 % Tuition 1,780,961 90.8 % 1,614,685 90.7 % 166,276 10.3 % Management fees and operating subsidies 180,824 9.2 % 165,930 9.3 % 14,894 9.0 % Back-up care 610,112 22.7 % 525,910 21.7 % 84,202 16.0 % Educational advisory services 114,116 4.2 % 111,732 4.7 % 2,384 2.1 % Total revenue $ 2,686,013 100.0 % $ 2,418,257 100.0 % $ 267,756 11.1 % Revenue generated by the full service center-based child care segment in the year ended December 31, 2024 increased by $181.2 million, or 10%, when compared to the prior year.
The following table summarizes the revenue and percentage of total revenue for each of our segments for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024: Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Change 2025 vs 2024 (in thousands, except percentages) Full service center-based child care $ 2,081,119 71.0 % $ 1,961,785 73.1 % $ 119,334 6.1 % Tuition 1,895,740 91.1 % 1,780,961 90.8 % 114,779 6.4 % Management fees and operating subsidies 185,379 8.9 % 180,824 9.2 % 4,555 2.5 % Back-up care 727,988 24.8 % 610,112 22.7 % 117,876 19.3 % Educational advisory services 124,500 4.2 % 114,116 4.2 % 10,384 9.1 % Total revenue $ 2,933,607 100.0 % $ 2,686,013 100.0 % $ 247,594 9.2 % Revenue generated by the full service center-based child care segment in the year ended December 31, 2025 increased by $119.3 million, or 6%, when compared to the prior year.
We also saw strong growth in back-up care with a 16% year-over-year increase in revenue as a result of increased utilization. 35 Table of Contents While we continue to see year-over-year growth and progress, we are navigating a dynamic operating environment that is impacted by increased operating costs, a tight labor market, varying enrollment demands, shifting work demographics, and challenging macroeconomic conditions.
While we continue to see year-over-year growth and progress in the overall performance of our full service center-based child care business, we are navigating a dynamic operating environment that is impacted by increased operating costs, a tight labor market, varying enrollment demands, shifting work demographics, and challenging macroeconomic conditions.
Long term debt obligations were as follows: December 31, 2024 2023 (In thousands) Term loan B $ 583,500 $ 588,000 Term loan A 367,500 380,000 Deferred financing costs and original issue discount (4,051) (5,236) Total debt 946,949 962,764 Less current maturities (28,500) (18,500) Long-term debt $ 918,449 $ 944,264 43 Table of Contents On December 11, 2024, the Company amended its existing senior secured credit facilities to, among other changes, reduce the applicable interest rates of the term loan B facility.
Long term debt obligations were as follows: December 31, 2025 2024 (In thousands) Term loan B $ 450,000 $ 583,500 Term loan A — 367,500 Revolving credit facility 499,552 — Deferred financing costs and original issue discount (2,386) (4,051) Total debt 947,166 946,949 Less current portion of term loans — (28,500) Less current portion of revolving credit facility (199,552) — Long-term debt $ 747,614 $ 918,449 42 Table of Contents On August 21, 2025, the Company amended its existing senior secured credit facilities to, among other changes, refinance the existing term loan B and to extend the maturity date.
We seek to cluster centers in geographic areas to enhance operating efficiencies and to create a leading market presence. At December 31, 2024, we had more than 1,450 client relationships with employers across a diverse array of industries, including more than 220 Fortune 500 companies.
At December 31, 2025, we had more than 1,450 client relationships with employers across a diverse array of industries, including more than 220 Fortune 500 companies.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, impairment losses recognized in the fourth quarter totaled $35.9 million, of which $32.0 million related to the full service center-based child care segment and $3.9 million related to the back-up care segment.
For the year ended December 31, 2025, impairment and net lease termination costs totaled $47.5 million, of which $47.0 million related to the full service center-based child care segment and $0.5 million related to the back-up care segment.
Cash Used in Investing Activities Cash used in investing activities was $117.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $126.9 million for the prior year, a decrease of $9.1 million. The decrease in cash used in investing activities was primarily related to a decrease in payments for acquisitions.
Cash Used in Investing Activities Cash used in investing activities was $103.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to $117.8 million for the prior year, a decrease of $14.0 million. The decrease in cash used in investing activities was primarily related to a decrease in net purchases of debt securities and other investments.
The following table summarizes income from operations and percentage of revenue for each of our segments for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023: Years Ended December 31, 2024 2023 Change 2024 vs 2023 (In thousands, except percentages) Full service center-based child care $ 53,699 2.7 % $ 9,396 0.5 % $ 44,303 471.5 % Back-up care 169,611 27.8 % 135,704 25.8 % 33,907 25.0 % Educational advisory services 23,309 20.4 % 26,141 23.4 % (2,832) (10.8) % Income from operations $ 246,619 9.2 % $ 171,241 7.1 % $ 75,378 44.0 % The change in income from operations was due to the following: • Income from operations for the full service center-based child care segment increased $44.3 million, or 472%, for the year ended December 31, 2024, when compared to the same period in 2023, primarily due to increases in tuition revenue from enrollment growth and tuition rate increases, partially offset by increased personnel costs, and a decrease of approximately $34 million in net contributions from pandemic-related government support as most of the programs for which we were eligible ended by September 30, 2023. • Income from operations for the back-up care segment increased $33.9 million, or 25%, in the year ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023.
The following table summarizes income from operations and percentage of revenue for each of our segments for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024: Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Change 2025 vs 2024 (In thousands, except percentages) Full service center-based child care $ 66,093 3.2 % $ 53,699 2.7 % $ 12,394 23.1 % Back-up care 221,610 30.4 % 169,611 27.8 % 51,999 30.7 % Educational advisory services 26,962 21.7 % 23,309 20.4 % 3,653 15.7 % Income from operations $ 314,665 10.7 % $ 246,619 9.2 % $ 68,046 27.6 % 37 Table of Contents The change in income from operations was due to the following: • Income from operations for the full service center-based child care segment increased $12.4 million, or 23%, for the year ended December 31, 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, primarily due to increases in tuition revenue from tuition rate increases and enrollment growth, as well as decreases in amortization expense, partially offset by increased personnel costs and increased impairment and net lease termination costs. • Income from operations for the back-up care segment increased $52.0 million, or 31%, in the year ended December 31, 2025 when compared to the same period in 2024.
To track our continued progress, we monitor same-center occupancy for a cohort of centers that has been operating since the 2021 fall enrollment cycle. Same-center occupancy represents utilization for each respective center and is calculated as the average full-time enrollment divided by the total operating capacity during the period.
Same-center occupancy represents utilization for each respective center and is calculated as the average full-time enrollment divided by the total operating capacity during the period. This cohort of centers totaled 746 centers as of December 31, 2025.
Amortization expense on intangible assets was $18.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, a decrease from $33.4 million in the prior year, primarily due to certain intangible assets becoming fully amortized during the period, partially offset by increases from intangible assets acquired in relation to the acquisitions completed in 2023 and 2024.
SGA was approximately 13% of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2025, consistent with 2024. Amortization of Intangible Assets. Amortization expense on intangible assets was $6.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, a decrease from $18.3 million in the prior year, primarily due to certain intangible assets becoming fully amortized during the period. Income from Operations.
We expect that in 2025 we will continue to spend on fixed asset additions related to new child care centers, maintenance and refurbishments in our existing centers, and continued investments in technology and equipment. As part of our growth strategy, we also expect to continue to make selective acquisitions.
Lastly, during the year ended December 31, 2025, we invested $6.8 million in acquisitions, compared to an investment of $8.3 million in the prior year. We expect that in 2026 we will continue to spend on fixed asset additions related to new child care centers, maintenance and refurbishments in our existing centers, and continued investments in technology and equipment.
Self-sourced reimbursed care is a reimbursement program available to employer sponsors when other care solutions are not available, to provide payments to their employees to assist with the cost of self-sourced dependent care. 45 Table of Contents Back-up care revenue is primarily comprised of fixed and variable consideration paid by employer sponsors, and, to a lesser extent, co-payments collected from users at the point of service.
Self-sourced reimbursed care is a reimbursement program available to employer sponsors when other care solutions are not available, to provide payments to their employees to assist with the cost of self-sourced dependent care.
If the estimated cash flows are less than the carrying amounts of the assets, an impairment loss is recognized to reduce the carrying amounts of the assets to its estimated fair value. The estimated fair value is determined based on discounting estimated cash flows, including consideration of market rates for leased assets.
Impairment is assessed by comparing the carrying amounts of the assets to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows over the assets’ remaining lives. If the estimated cash flows are less than the carrying amounts of the assets, an impairment loss is recognized to reduce the carrying amounts of the assets to its estimated fair value.
Revenue generated by educational advisory services in the year ended December 31, 2024 increased by $2.4 million, or 2%, when compared to the prior year. Revenue growth in this segment was primarily attributable to increased utilization. Cost of Services.
Revenue growth in this segment was primarily attributable to increased utilization from new and existing clients. Cost of Services. Cost of services increased $170.0 million, or 8%, to $2.2 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $2.1 billion for the prior year.
Debt Our senior secured credit facilities consist of a $600 million term loan B facility (“term loan B”), a $400 million term loan A facility (“term loan A”), and a $400 million multi-currency revolving credit facility (“revolving credit facility”).
There were no payments for deferred consideration during the year ended December 31, 2025. Debt Our senior secured credit facilities consist of our term loan B facility (the “term loan B”) and our $900 million multi-currency revolving credit facility (the “revolving credit facility”).
Cost of services also includes impairment costs of $29.8 million in 2024 and $32.0 million in 2023, primarily related to fixed assets and operating lease right of use assets. Additionally, most of the pandemic-related government support programs for which we were eligible ended September 2023.
Cost of services also includes impairment and net lease termination costs of $47.0 million and $29.8 million in 2025 and 2024, respectively, primarily related to fixed assets and operating lease right of use assets.
The revolving credit facility matures on May 26, 2026. At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, there were no borrowings outstanding under the revolving credit facility and letters of credit outstanding under the revolver were $15.2 million and $19.3 million, respectively, with $384.8 million and $380.7 million available for borrowing, respectively.
At December 31, 2024, there were no borrowings outstanding on the revolving credit facility, and letters of credit outstanding were $15.2 million, with $384.8 million available for borrowing. Additionally, a AU$5 million (US$3.3 million) uncommitted working capital credit facility is available in Australia for short-term borrowing purposes.
As a result of changing conditions, there has been an elevated number of center closures in recent years, totaling 56 in 2024 and 49 in 2023, in addition to the impairment of certain assets.
As a result, there has been an elevated number of center closures in recent years, totaling 29 in 2025 and 56 in 2024, in addition to the impairment of certain assets. We continue to review the portfolio of centers and expect to close additional centers in 2026. Where possible, we shift enrollment and teachers to other centers at nearby locations.
Back-Up Care Services Back-up care services consist of center-based back-up child care, in-home child and senior care, school-age programs (including camps and tutoring), pet care, self-sourced reimbursed care and Sittercity, an online marketplace for families and caregivers.
The variable consideration relates specifically to efforts to transfer each distinct daily service and the allocation of the consideration earned to that distinct day in which those activities are performed is consistent with the overall allocation objective. 44 Table of Contents Back-Up Care Services Back-up care services consist of center-based back-up child care, in-home child and senior care, school-age programs (including camps and tutoring), pet care, self-sourced reimbursed care and Sittercity, an online marketplace for families and caregivers.
Fair value is determined by estimating the total revenue attributable to each trademark, multiplied by a market-derived royalty rate, and then discounted using the applicable discount rate. The forecasts of revenue and profitability growth for use in our long-range plan and the discount rate are the key assumptions in our fair value analysis.
We test certain trademarks that are determined to be indefinite-lived intangible assets by comparing the fair value of the trademarks with their carrying value. Fair value is determined by estimating the total revenue attributable to each trademark, multiplied by a market-derived royalty rate, and then discounted using the applicable discount rate.
Incremental contributions from the expanded utilization of back-up care services were partially offset by the related higher personnel and service provider costs.
Incremental gross profit contributions from the expanded utilization of back-up care services were partially offset by increases in technology and marketing expense to improve customer experience.