Korian Group announces the acquisition of Stepping Stones, a high quality and innovative Dutch private operator specialized in Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive disorders.

Stepping Stones, an innovative concept of residential villas for the patients

Since its inception in 2006 by Christiaan Sap, Founder and CEO, Stepping Stones has developed a unique concept based on small-sized residential care villas adapted to patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or cognitive disorders. Each resident has his own apartment and common areas (living room, dining room, open kitchen as well as a garden) are accessible to everyone.

Personalized care, well suited to Korian’s Positive Care approach, is based on specific needs and wishes of people who are mostly highly dependent. Residents are supported throughout their stay, thanks to an expertise in palliative care. The staff is specifically trained to provide complex care, as required by the Dutch regional care offices (Zorgkantoren).

The company owns 12 care villas of high quality standard including 3 which are in a ramp-up phase, representing 260 apartments, mainly located in the center and the east of the Netherlands.

The Dutch care market expected to grow strongly

The Dutch highly fragmented care market is expected to grow strongly in line with the increase of the elderly population: the number of people over 65 is expected to grow by 50%, from 3.2 million in 2017 up to 4.8 million by 2040, while the number of people over 80 years will double to 1.6 million in the same period.

According to market experts, more than 30,000 beds will be needed in the next 10 years to cope with the demographic pressure. Therefore, the regulatory environment fosters the development of a premium quality private offering.

 

“I am delighted to join the Korian Group with whom I share common values and expertise. Having such a support will contribute to accelerate the development of Stepping Stones’ concept across the entire country. Providing personalized and continuous care to people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease through a dedicated offer in a friendly environment is a major challenge for me.”, commented Christiaan Sap, Founder and CEO of Stepping Stones.

“We are happy to welcome with Stepping Stones, an experienced and recognized team. The strong care concept that has been tested and rolled-out for years is a key competitive edge in a growing and innovative Dutch market. Korian is strongly committed to support the growth plan of Stepping Stones throughout the Netherlands while cross-fertilizing this genuine concept all over the European network. After Ages&Vie in France, Korian reinforces its foothold in the small-sized senior living communities business segment and thus enlarges its care service offer to better adapt to client needs.” added Sophie Boissard, CEO of Korian Group.