Acquisition Strategy

The Process

We have a consistent, efficient and proven acquisition process, which helps ensure both parties can receive a satisfactory outcome.

First Meeting

The first meeting is an opportunity to understand each other’s businesses and how the acquisition process works. If you decide to take things to the next stage, we will need some preliminary information to move the process forward.

Indicative Valuation

Once the preliminary information is received, we can provide an indicative valuation. This is a quick process that can often be completed within two weeks of the initial meeting. We use a clear and transparent valuation model.

Formal Offer

We can move to a formal offer once the indicative valuation is completed. We will talk you through the formal offer to enable you to ask any questions and fully understand the process.

There is often a period of negotiation where you can raise concerns that need to be resolved before acceptance. It may take 2-3 weeks for both parties to agree to final terms, which are subject to our due diligence process.

Acceptance and Due Diligence

Once the formal offer is accepted, we will visit your business to complete the due diligence process.

At the same time, we will commence the legal process with your solicitors and a sale and purchase agreement will be drafted and finalized by both parties. This part of the process can take 4-8 weeks.

Completion

Once the due diligence has been completed and the sale and purchase agreement finalized, a completion date can be set (subject to FCA approval). The completion date will usually be set a few weeks from the end of due diligence and finalisation of the purchase agreement.

A typical acquisition timeframe from first meeting to competition is 10 – 12 weeks; however, we have completed many deals in less time.