Eduviva Group Acquires Baert to Expand Educational Products

Eduviva Group, headquartered in Osby, Sweden and backed by Stockholm-based Nalka Invest, has entered into an agreement to acquire Baert, a leading Belgian provider of educational products, including learning materials and school furniture. The acquisition, announced in early April 2026, positions Eduviva as the most comprehensive platform for creative and educational products across Europe.

Baert, based in Ternat, Belgium, brings over 100 years of experience in the education sector. The company has built a strong market presence through strategic acquisitions such as Interoffice, Marechal, and De Neef, and recently merged with Hageland Educatief to broaden its offerings in educational and childcare environments.

Following the transaction, Baert will continue to operate as a separate business unit under its well-established brand name. The Baert family will retain a minority stake in Eduviva Group, ensuring continuity and local expertise. Baert’s logistics centers in Ternat and Molenstede will remain operational, supporting supply chain efficiencies.

David Persson, CEO of Eduviva Group, states, “Baert’s deep expertise in didactic materials, school supplies, and solutions for early childhood and primary education aligns perfectly with our mission to spark the passion to create and the joy to learn. This acquisition supports our ambition to be market leader in all our home markets.”

Eduviva Group operates four business units: Lekolar, the Nordic leader in learning materials and spaces for educators; Heutink, the Dutch market leader in learning content and materials; Panduro, a Nordic and Benelux omnichannel leader in arts and crafts; and Playbox, a producer and wholesaler of arts and craft products. In 2025, Eduviva reported revenues of approximately SEK 5.9 billion and has been majority owned by Nalka Invest AB since 2017.

Goele Baert, representing the Baert family, adds, “Being part of a strong European group gives us access to a broader network, additional expertise, and new opportunities for innovation. We will continue to build on the trusted Baert identity while enhancing our offerings and service to schools and childcare providers.”

The acquisition is expected to generate synergies through cross-selling Eduviva’s creative products via Baert’s established Belgian channels and expanding Baert’s educational furniture into Eduviva’s broader European markets. Operational efficiencies will be realized by consolidating procurement and leveraging Baert’s logistics infrastructure.

Market analysts note that this deal accelerates consolidation in the European educational products sector, intensifying competition. Eduviva’s strengthened presence in Belgium may prompt competitors to pursue similar acquisitions or increase investments in innovation and customer service.

Integration challenges include maintaining Baert’s brand identity and operational autonomy while aligning with Eduviva’s strategic goals, as well as managing cultural and logistical coordination between Swedish and Belgian operations.

Regulatory approvals and integration planning are underway, with both companies committed to a smooth transition. The acquisition reinforces Eduviva’s strategy of market expansion and product portfolio diversification, positioning the group for continued growth in the evolving education market.