If a broker claims to have hundreds of “active buyers ready to acquire”, be cautious. Genuine trade buyers, corporate acquirers, and private investors don’t sit on mailing lists waiting for another sales email.

There are no shortcuts and no free lunches when you’re selling your life’s work to a stranger. Below are the five biggest lies you’ll hear, why they’re used, how they show up, and where they quietly cost you value. No theatrics. Just the tell.

The truth is simple: the most valuable businesses aren’t defined by their past, they’re defined by their future. And while some buyers will only ever look in the rear-view mirror, others, the right buyers, will focus on what lies ahead.

When selling a business, one of the most debated topics is the earn-out. Love them or hate them, they remain a common feature of SME business sales and M&A transactions.

In the dynamic landscape of business acquisitions, not all business buyers are created equal. The decision to sell a business is monumental, laden with complexities and profound implications for its future. Traditional avenues often lead sellers to generalist business buyers or private investors. However, this path is increasingly scrutinized for its limitations and misalignments with the seller's interests. The discerning seller, armed with the right advice and support, may

As a business owner contemplating exit, you might be wondering about the optimal way to maximize your financial return. Typically, you have two broad categories of buyers to consider: financial buyers (such as investors and private equity firms) and strategic or trade buyers (usually larger companies in your industry). In most cases, if you plan effectively, trade sales to larger strategic buyers offer far better value. In this article, we explore why. 1. Higher Valuation A s

The Attraction of Smaller M&A Deals for Large Trade Acquirers In the ebb and flow of the global economy, periods of economic downturn and financial turbulence are inevitable. During such tough times, corporations typically revisit their M&A strategies to align with the evolving business climate. Recently, an emerging trend has taken the forefront: large trade acquirers are finding smaller M&A deals, specifically in the £1 million to £10 million sale range, increasingly attrac

Business acquisitions constitute a vital growth strategy for many companies. It's a process that allows businesses to expand their capabilities, diversify their operations, and gain a competitive edge. However, business acquisitions can be intricate, with complexities arising from both financial and legal aspects. This article will guide you through the A to Z of the business acquisition process in the UK, providing a comprehensive overview to aid understanding and help you n

Strategically crafting an exit plan for your business can feel like navigating a minefield. It requires careful contemplation, strategising and the ability to avoid common pitfalls. Here, we shed light on 10 crucial mistakes to avoid when it comes to exit planning, with a persuasive call to action to act early and understand the profound value of confidential discussions with experienced business brokers and exit advisers. 1. Delaying Exit Planning The earlier you start, the

When it comes to broadening your business reach, growth, and capabilities, one of the most promising strategies lies in the potential of business acquisitions. This opportunity not only provides a chance to expand, but also opens a gateway to obtaining pre-established customers, enhancing product lines, and tapping into new markets. For Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and mid-market businesses, the task can seem daunting. However, with the right strategy, it can be a game-

Navigating the complex and multifaceted world of corporate finance is a daunting task, especially for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Given the unique challenges that these businesses face, understanding the essentials of corporate finance can be pivotal to their survival and growth. Crucially, seeking professional advice at an early stage of this process can mean the difference between financial stability and instability. The Essentials of Corporate Finance for SMEs: Ca

Management Buyouts (MBOs) represent a significant strategic decision in the life cycle of a business, a decision that can not only transform the fortunes of the company but also shift the equilibrium of its leadership. However, successful MBOs require meticulous planning, astute financial acumen, and shrewd strategic thinking. One vital piece of the puzzle that is often overlooked is seeking professional advice early in the process. Defining a Management Buyout A management b

Success in the realm of business is not just about starting, scaling and making profit. A vital yet often underestimated part of the journey is how to successfully exit or sell a business. In reality, many entrepreneurs become fixated on immediate success stories and do not consider the significance of the sale process. This results in flawed exit strategies which eventually falter, causing disappointment and frustration. It's a common misconception that a business sale is a